Mai blinked, pulling away to look up at Luka. He looked nervous, and genuine, and it made her heart lift just a bit. He seemed to be waiting for an answer, and she took a minute to think her own feelings over. She did care for him, quite deeply, but she hadn't experienced love since she was young. He shifted, pulling out a small box that she recognized all too well.
"Mai, would you marry me?" He seemed to rush the words out, and considering his previous attempts, she couldn't blame him. She reached out carefully to open the box, giving a small gasp at the sight of the ring. It was made of silver, and a single diamond was settled right in the middle. She hesitated before picking up the ring. She looked up at Luka, who scared witless, and nodded slowly with a growing smile.
"Yes, Luka. I would love to." His own grin was brighter than any magic she'd seen, and he dipped in for a kiss. She gave a small sound of surprise before returning the kiss, pressing close. A thought came to her then, and she pulled away. "Wait, what of your parents? I can't imagine they'll approve of you marrying a witch and not some lady of the courts." He sighed, leaning back enough to slip the ring on her finger. She had to admit, she did like it there.
"Let me worry about my parents. All you have to worry about is what beautiful dress you'll wear at our wedding." Her heart thrilled as he stood to go, and she settled back against her pillows. Perhaps things would work out after all.
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"Luka, I'm not sure that would be wise." He couldn't believe his father, suggesting they simply allow Mai to slink back to the woods. He'd been arguing with his parents for awhile now, and only his mother seemed swayed by his obvious love for the young woman.
"I intend to marry Mai, regardless of whether you approve or not." Luka knew he sounded like a petulant child, but there was nothing more important to him right now. His father frowned, clearly becoming angry with his son.
"You will find a suitable wife, Luka, or you will lose your position here." The Queen looked at her husband in shock just as Luka did, before Luka shook himself and growled his reply.
"Then I will no longer be your Crown Prince." He turned and strode out of the study, not once turning to look back at his parents. He hoped his father would come to understand and accept his love for Mai, but until then Luka would not accept the crown. He headed for Mai's room, intending to tell her they were to be married as soon as she was comfortable, but upon arriving found her bed to be empty. He panicked, searching the adjoining rooms before finding a note among the pillows.
Luka,
I'm not going to ask you to give up your kingdom for a witch. I will still love you, but your father is right. You should find a bride from the courts, someone who would make a fine queen to the people. I have every faith you will be a great king, and I will be happy to see you flourish. I love you. -Mai
He growled in frustration, angry that he hadn't noticed her listening to their conversation. He ran for the stables, ordering his horse be prepared as soon as possible. She wasn't leaving him, he wouldn't let her. She agreed to marry him, and he intended to follow through.
YOU ARE READING
Paralyzer
Фэнтези"You could come back with me." "Be careful who you invite to your home, dear Prince. You may not find it as agreeable as you hope." The strange woman in the wood draws Luka like no one else. He wants nothing more than to be close to her, but she is...
