How To Tame An Empress (BOOK I)

Chapter 28 - In the Lion's Grasp

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I dismounted quietly, passing the reins to the waiting stable boy as Julius followed in my actions, but I was not looking at him since my gaze was focused on the domus before me. The familiar scent of olive oil and dried flowers clung to the summer breeze, bringing with it a discomfort which I refused to name.

Adjusting the clasp of my cloak, I moved toward the entrance. It would be a lie to say that this was not a beautiful home. Unlike the palace, it was warm and lived in, and I could practically see Ria's childhood written into its walls, but part of me felt as though I were intruding.

Each step grated me as we walked through the archway and into the home. I had to remind myself that this was my right. That she is my wife. And willingly or not, she will return to me.

Servants appeared quickly, and amongst them appeared the man of the house, Ria's father. With sunken eyes and a haggard appearance, a smile graced his grief-stricken features as he welcomed me into his home.

"Your imperial majesty. We were not expecting your visit so suddenly, please forgive my lack of welcome." He greeted as one of the servants stepped forward, taking my cloak which I handed over before I offered him a gentle, reassuring smile.

"There is nothing to forgive, if anything, I am the one who should ask for forgiveness regarding my sudden appearance. It was not my intention to intrude, but you have my compliments nonetheless, your household is as welcoming as ever." I chuckled, going to shake his hand.

"You flatter me, but I will happily accept the compliment." As I stepped back, Julius went to hug his father in greeting while my eyes scanned over the interior.

The last time I came here was on my wedding day, back then the house was heavily decorated and filled with guests, but still, nothing could hide the warmth that seeped through. Having grown up being used to this, it is no surprise that Ria finds the palace to be so uncomfortable. But still, that was her home, I was her home.

"Ria came to visit her ailing mother without properly consulting me, so you can imagine my surprise when I got word that she had left the palace. I was left with no choice but to follow after her, and decided it would be wise to bring Julius along as it has been some time since he too has seen his family." I spoke with honeyed concern, giving them the perfect image of a devoted husband and a benevolent emperor.

"Then I must thank you for your visit. Their mother has been calling out for her children ever since she became bedridden, and you have made her last wish come true." Her father spoke, patting my shoulder as I maintained the smile on my lips.

"I am happy to hear that." Is all I replied with. But as I spoke, simmering anger churned beneath my ribs, coiling tightly in gut. But as I usually did, I kept it buried, layered beneath a mask of calm, warm authority.

"Can I ask where Ria currently is? With her mother?" Bored of the conversation, I got to the main topic at hand, guessing the obvious answer.

"She was until a moment ago, but her mother is sleeping now so she stepped into the garden for some air. She is with her friend, Balbina, now." The old man answered as I hummed.

"It is a shame that I will not be able to give my well-wishes to your wife myself, so please tell her for me, I will be grateful." He nodded with a thankful smile as I turned to look at Julius.

"You should take the rest of the day, if not the week, to be with your mother." I instructed, catching him by surprise as he blinked, having to take a moment to think over my words before gratitude softened his features.

"Thank you, dominus." He dipped his head into a thankful bow as he spoke before shifting in his feet to leave the room, and my gaze followed him, pausing at the door which was pushed open before he could go through.