The early morning sun had barely begun to peek through the heavy velvet curtains of Steele's opulent guest chambers when an insistent knocking shattered the peaceful silence. Steele, lounging shirtless on a plush chaise, his ever-present hat still firmly in place, let out a low growl of annoyance.
"For the love of... who dares... disturb my peace... at this ungodly hour?" he muttered, his voice rough with sleep.
Two scantily clad women draped across his muscular form stirred, their eyes fluttering open in confusion. Steele gently disentangled himself from their embrace, reaching for his discarded shirt.
"Ladies... duty calls," he drawled, a hint of regret coloring his tone. "Feel free to... make yourselves comfortable... in my absence." He winked suggestively.
As he made his way to the door, Steele's mind raced with possibilities. 'Who could it be... at this hour? The emperor... wouldn't dare... would he?'
