The Marí

Part.3

And as the night pressed closer I clung to that fleeting sense of peace, wondering how long it would last before reality came crashing back in. I stirred lazily in bed, my breaths hazy as the cool night breeze grazed my bare legs teasing my skin. A soft groan escaped my lips as cold fingertips replaced the chill trailing slowly up my legs, lingering with a gentle touch before brushing maddeningly against my exposed folds. My head tipped back, my body instinctively arching toward the touch aching for more. In a single motion, the covers were thrown back leaving me completely exposed, the sudden chill only intensified the heat burning beneath my skin which sent shivers over me hardening my nipples almost painfully. Images of the masked stranger slowly crept into my mind-the roughness of his hands, the way he gripped me squeezing and claiming. My nightgown slid away leaving me completely exposed, bare under the lingering chill of the night air that swept over me mingling with the cold touch. My breathing hitched as the fingers continue to explore, pumping and massaging my folds deeper, grazing over my clit deliberately, hitting paths that sent sparks through every nerve. My back arched instinctively pressing into the touch, seeking more as a deep magnetic pull knotted in my stomach grounding me in place. The air was thick, heavy with the heady scent of wood and musk and something darker more primal, filling the room with an intensity that echoed with each pulse in my veins. Warm lips slowly descended on my folds replacing the cold fingers sucking, tasting faster and harder, igniting something raw and electric that surged through my core. My body responded of its own accord moving against it as cold fingers pumped into me once more, my breaths turning into hard and breathless moans. My fingers twisted into the sheets as a soft hum of pleasure slipped past my lips, each sensation intensifying as I floated between dream and reality. My eyelids lifted slowly my gaze drawn as a figure slowly leaned closer, our eyes met and my breath caught. It's gaze—deep, crimson, and intense—burned through the obscurity, locking onto mine with a searing heat that cut through the darkness and left me breathless. I gasped awake, heart pounding as sunlight poured through the curtains, washing over my bed. Disoriented I blinked against the brightness still feeling the trace of those crimson eyes staring at me fiercely, my skin was slick with sweat tangled in my sheets as I struggled to steady my breathing.
"Mi'lady!" Regina's familiar voice cut through the haze, her gentle hands resting on my shoulders. She knelt beside me her face etched with worry as she studied my flushed cheeks and wide eyes.
"Are you all right?" Her voice was soft, but there was urgency in her tone as her gaze swept over me taking in my disheveled state.
I nodded weakly, though my throat felt tight. "It was...just a dream," I murmured, though even as I said it, the memory of those eyes lingered refusing to be dismissed. The intensity of it—the heat, the shadows, the searing crimson gaze—left me trembling a shiver running down my spine. Regina's expression softened as she reached out to smooth a strand of damp hair from my forehead. "It must have been quite a dream," she said, her tone gentle but I could sense the curiosity beneath her calm exterior. I wrapped my arms around myself feeling suddenly exposed as I remembered the vividness of every touch, every sensation that had been seared into my mind. My cheeks flushed and I looked away not daring to meet her gaze.
"Would you like some tea, mi'lady?" Regina offered squeezing my hand reassuringly, perhaps sensing that I was in no state to speak further.
"Yes...please," I replied, grateful for the excuse to pull myself together as she rose to her feet. As she walked toward the door I allowed myself one last deep breath willing away the fleeting feelings from the dream that had felt so real, the room fell silent once more and a chill crept over me clinging like a shadow I couldn't shake. Regina soon returned carrying a tray laden with warm biscuits and a steaming pot of tea, my stomach growled in response and I devoured the biscuits hungrily hoping that the simple act of eating would ground me and push the haunting fragments of my dream to the back of my mind.
"Your bath is nearly ready, mi'lady," Regina informed me with a polite smile collecting the empty plate. "And...there's something else," she hesitated her tone soft but the weight of her words unmistakable.
"What is it?" I asked, though my heart was already beginning to sink, a premonition stirring within me.
"Your father has returned," she said watching my reaction closely.
"Well, that's wonderful news!" I replied, trying to keep my voice bright, hoping Regina wouldn't sense the hesitation lurking beneath. As she helped me from the bed and undressed me, I let the warmth of the morning routine settle over me. She instructed the other maids to prepare the bath and I allowed myself to be led toward it though my mind drifted back to the stranger and the memory I'd tried to banish since my Falciloz. The dream's sensations lingered haunting me with a vividness that brought a blush to my cheeks, I could still feel every touch, every breath as if it were more than a mere dream.
"It's ready, mi'lady," Regina called, guiding me to the washroom. I slipped into the tub the warm water a welcome balm against my skin, soothing yet stirring memories of the night. As the maids washed my hair and massaged my shoulders, I twisted and turned slightly, a strange soreness reminding me of sensations my body shouldn't still hold onto, after my bath i was enveloped in a flowing gown of sapphire silk, its fabric luxuriously soft against my skin, the gown cinched at the waist with a silver-embroidered belt accentuating my figure and allowing me to feel both elegant and poised. The maids gently placed me on a stool by the vanity their hands deftly working on my hair creating a curly updo while allowing a few strands to deliberately fall, giving me an effortlessly beautiful look. They meticulously styled my hair, soft curls framed my face, and tiny glistening pearls were pinned into the hair adding an air of refined elegance, the soft rustle of fabric filled the air mingling with the soothing scents of lavender and rose water that wrapped around me like a comforting embrace. I couldn't help but hum absentmindedly, my mind drifting back to the dream that had shaken me to my core yet ignited a spark of something I couldn't quite identify—the heat, the intimacy, the heady thrill of surrendering to something so raw and wild. Instead of fear, I found myself feeling an unexpected neediness, a gnawing desire that unsettled yet excited me.
"His Majesty requests your presence at breakfast this morning," Regina announced, her voice cutting through my moment of calm and yanking me back to reality. My heart sank, a chill of dread creeping through me. I silently prayed that Hugo hadn't revealed any secrets about the forest and yesterday's events I paused, trying to conjure a genuine excuse; the thought of likely seeing him in the dining area stirred a slight fury within me yet I needed to greet my father. Just then the door burst open jolting me from my thoughts and causing my heart to skip a beat as my gaze locked onto the devil himself. He strode in, flanked by his guards.
"Morning, my love," he called out, flashing a smile so beautiful it could have brought me to my knees—if only I didn't know him better.
"Morning, Hugo," I replied, mustering a polite smile that thinly veiled my disdain, his confidence irked me stirring a simmering anger within fueled further by his unwelcome touch and lecherous gaze. I reluctantly extended my hand which he grasped warmly planting a kiss on it while locking eyes with mine as he let go, I discreetly wiped my hand on my dress as if erasing his touch.
"Now I'm sure you know that's not how to speak to your husband, is it princess?" he said mockingly. "As a matter of fact, your father told me he sent for you," Hugo said his gloved hand gripping my chin, tilting my face up to meet his hard gaze–trying to assert control.
"Oh, Hugo, darling," I murmured letting a mischievous smile curve my lips, after all it did take two to tango. Gently, I took his hand gloved hand from my chin lifting it to my mouth and drawing his index finger into my mouth–sucking hard, my eyes never leaving his, the confusion that flickered across his face was priceless.
"You didn't have to come all the way here to fetch me," I cooed, leaning close enough to see a faint blush creep up his neck. "But now that you're here..." I pressed my hand against his chest feeling the hard muscle beneath the fabric and with a quick push sent him tumbling backward onto the bed. The room fell silent every maid and guard frozen as I made a show of unbuttoning my blouse. Hugo shot to his feet, his face flushed with embarrassment and fury. "Merald! Have you lost your senses? You're a lady—start acting like one!" he barked, his voice pitched high tinged with mortification as he hurriedly left the room brushing over me roughly in process, his guards scurrying after him their faces downcast.
"That was so uncalled for, Your Grace," Regina muttered as the door clicked shut her tone disapproving.
I shrugged, shooting her a dismissive glance. "And since when does a maid dictate what's called for?" I said with a smirk. "Now, clear the room. I'm off to breakfast." I watched as the others hurried out, the door clicking shut behind them. A wave of satisfaction washed over me—seeing Hugo flustered and rattled was the perfect start to my morning. With practiced elegance I swept into the dining hall, a retinue of maids trailing behind, the soft rustle of my sapphire silk gown marking my entrance. The fabric glimmered under the chandeliers, I offered a courteous bow to my parents, seated regally at the head of the table.
"Father, Mother," I greeted dipping my head my voice carrying gently across the room. "My apologies for being late, I was feeling a bit unwell." I added, allowing a delicate smile.
"Sit, child" my mother said gesturing to a chair across from her. I settled beside my betrothed, a hint of a smirk on my lips as our earlier encounter flashed through my mind. Around the table unfamiliar faces mingled with those of the high nobles, each guest's presence defined by their richly adorned attire and dignified bearing.
"See, Father? I told you she would come," Hugo declared his eyes gleaming with a spark of triumph. I stifled a scoff, inwardly cursing the day I'd been betrothed to this insufferable fool.
My father chuckled his gaze on me softened by affection. "My beautiful Merald," he began warmly, "allow me to introduce His Majesty, King Bernard Fludr Lorway II of Lanlard, and his esteemed wife, Her Highness Starlin Garcia Lorway." I inclined my head respectfully my breath catching as I registered the significance of these guests.
"And of course, you're already acquainted with their son, Prince Hugo, and his sister, Princess Lia." I nodded politely suppressing a shudder at the thought of binding myself to Hugo. The tantalizing aroma of freshly baked bread, spiced fruits and roasted meats wafted through the room, momentarily lifting my spirits. I took a steadying breath, the savory scents offering a fleeting comfort. My father's gaze held a calmness at odds with the weight of his decision. I returned his serene smile hiding my turmoil beneath a mask of warmth.
"Your Highnesses," he continued, "My beloved daughter, Princess Annabella Emerald Knight—the most elegant and beautiful lady in Brushtn." His introduction seemed to amuse Hugo who sputtered on his drink and I responded by pressing my foot firmly on his under the table. The attention shifted toward us and I deflected with a laugh. "It's nothing Father," I replied smoothly saving Hugo from his own foolishness. My father's pride radiated across the table and I lowered my eyes, feeling a flush of warmth as I nibbled on the delicate pancakes before me. They were perfectly light with a hint of vanilla and cinnamon and the syrup's sweetness complemented their buttery softness.
"She is lovely, isn't she, Bernard?" Starlin said her eyes soft with admiration. "She'll make a wonderful match for our son—and, no doubt many fine children." Her words made me choke and I felt Hugo's hand on my back, his amusement barely concealed as he offered me a glass of water.
"Well, naturally," my mother replied with a gentle smile. I glanced at her pleading silently, but her gaze was firm as if to say, "Compose yourself." I swallowed hard feeling the walls around me close in.
"Very well," my father said, his voice commanding the room once more. "I wish to formally announce that the marriage between Prince Hugo Lanlard and my beloved Merald will take place in two days." His words rang with finality, as everyone except me responded with cheerful agreement.
"What?!" I exclaimed, shock slicing through my voice. "Father this is sudden—completely unfair!" I was louder than intended but my desperation outweighed any concern for propriety. In two days, I would be bound to this life with no chance of escape.
My father's face remained impassive as he waved away my protest. "Prince Hugo made a compelling case for an earlier union. Besides, I recall mentioning that we'd commence the wedding preparations upon my return." His words were level as if he were reciting an ordinary decree. I looked to Hugo his smirk confirming every suspicion I harbored.
"Hugo made me realize there's no sense in delaying," my father added sipping from his goblet. "What can we do in weeks that we can't accomplish in two days?"
"But, Father—" I began only to be silenced by his commanding tone.
"Annabella Emerald Knight, you will do as I say unless you're prepared to face the consequences of your disobedience. Attempting to leave the palace, crossing the border without permission, stealing or toying with bows and arrows as though you're still a child—those are not the actions of a lady." His voice was steely filling the hall with his authority. "It's high time you learn your place! Serving your husband and building a family will give you the purpose you need!!"
My heart sank, my parents for all their love were blind to how wrong this union was for me.
"But—" I tried again determined to make them understand but my mother's firm voice silenced me.
"No more arguments, Merald." Her words were final her gaze softening as she placed a hand on my father's arm, leaning close to press a gentle kiss to his cheek. Her eyes seemed to implore me to yield as if she too knew I would lose. Without another word my father pushed back his chair and strode from the hall, his departure sealing my fate.
His footsteps echoed down the hallway, his figure disappearing around the corner, anger bubbled up within me, unable to contain it I shoved my chair back the legs scraping harshly against the polished floor. Ignoring the curious looks of the gathered nobles I hurried after him, my footsteps quickening as I rounded the corner.
"Father!" I called, my voice trembling with frustration, my fists clenched at my sides. "Father!"
He ignored me his pace unbroken as he continued down the long dimly lit hallway, his figure straight and unyielding.
"Father, please wait!" I called again my desperation clear in my voice as I caught up with him outside his chamber doors. "You can't simply ignore me!"
He paused his back still to me, his hand resting on the door handle. "You forget yourself, Emerald," he replied, his tone cold. "This is not a matter for discussion."
"But it should be!" I cried, taking a step closer. "How can you expect me to marry him—to bind myself to someone I don't love, someone who only seeks to control me?"
Slowly, he turned to face me his gaze hard and unrelenting. "Control you? No, child. This union will ground you. You are a princess; your life isn't about whimsical notions of love and freedom."
The words stung but I pressed on my voice growing louder. "Father, please! Just listen to me!" I pleaded, my voice trembling with emotion. "I've obeyed every rule, fulfilled every duty you've laid before me. But this—this is different. This isn't just another duty. It's my entire life! Doesn't that mean anything?"
His gaze flickered but only for an instant. "You think you know what's best for you but you're still young. You don't see the world as I do."
I shook my head tears pricking the corners of my eyes as I fought to keep my voice steady. "I know enough to see that marrying Hugo will trap me Father. He wants a wife he can mold, someone who will bend to his will. But that's not me! You know that."
He sighed looking away, "Emerald, your personal feelings must be set aside. This marriage will benefit our kingdom and secure our alliances, you will do your duty!"
"And what about what I want? Am I just another pawn to be sacrificed in your game of alliances?" I demanded, my voice rising as I took a bold step closer. "Is that all I am to you?"
A flash of hurt crossed his face and he straightened, his voice turning cold. "Enough, Emerald. Your life belongs to this kingdom—to your family, you were born into responsibility not into privilege."
I stared at him my heart sinking at the realization that he would not yield. "Father, please," I whispered, my voice barely above a breath. "This will destroy me."
For a moment there was silence between us. He looked at me, his expression softening, almost pained. But then his gaze hardened, the familiar mask of duty slipping back into place.
"Emerald, you will do as you are told." He turned away from me, opened the door to his chamber and closed it firmly behind him leaving me standing alone in the dim hallway, my heart heavy with the weight of his final words. In a burst of defiance I pushed it open slipping inside his chamber. He turned startled as I fell to my knees before him, my voice breaking with desperation. "Father, please. If nothing else grant me time. A year—just a year to learn what it means to be a queen, to understand my role properly."
His expression softened for a moment as he knelt down, his hand reaching to graze my chin gently lifting my face to meet his gaze. "Learn?" he murmured, disappointment heavy in his eyes. "You've never cared for that. All these years, Emerald, you've defied every lesson, dismissed every duty. Now you ask to learn?"
I opened my mouth to protest but he continued his voice thick with pain. "You've been disobedient, stubborn, and reckless at every turn. Do you think I haven't seen it? I thought—" His voice wavered, his gaze flickering as though he were recalling moments long past. "I thought I had failed as a father because you could not conduct yourself as a lady. I don't know what more I could have done." His words cut deep, each one piercing through the defenses I had built. I wanted to tell him he was wrong but I couldn't deny the truth of what he said. I felt a twinge of guilt knowing that in some way, he wasn't wrong. Seeing his disappointment laid so plainly before me made the weight of my actions feel sharper. He let out a weary sigh letting his hand fall from my face as he straightened. "Emerald, the best I can give you is a month. I will not delay further. Perhaps, in that time you will prove me wrong." His gaze softened slightly as if the faintest sliver of hope still remained. I opened my mouth to respond but the door swung open and my mother entered, her expression stern as her eyes darted between us. "Enough," she commanded, her voice leaving no room for argument. "You have disrupted your father enough and brought shame and dishonor into this household." Her cold tone stung and I forced myself to my feet, casting one last glance at my father. He looked away his face a mask once more and I felt the finality of his decision settle heavily over me with a forced bow I exited his chamber, the weight of his words and my mother's unwavering authority pressing down on me.