Callidus jolted awake, his eyes immediately darting across the chamber, where an instant sense of relief washed over him, just as it did every morning, at the sight of Cressida peacefully sleeping in her bed.
The air around her warmed, having been cradling her all night. It gently caressed her face, tucking stray strands of hair away, and ensuring the sheets remained untangled, responding to her every gentle sigh and subtle movement.
Quietly, Callidus rose and sat on the edge of the bed, observing as her fingers subtly twitched in her sleep. The golden engagement ring faintly caught the dim light, and his heart quickened at the sight. She might not love him, but she hadn't removed it.
(Though, if she had, he would have put it back on her finger.)
He hoped that meant something. (It must mean something.)
Several weeks ago, Callidus's normal routine had involved rushing to the window, hoping for a glimpse of Cressida in the Sapphire Suite's garden. But now, she was here with him, and he could see her whenever he wanted. The mere thought sent a wave of pleasant delirium coursing through him.
He silently rose from his bed, softly walking towards the dressing area, gathering his clothes effortlessly with a gentle breeze. After dressing, he glanced out the window. The courtyard was unusually dark for this time of morning, several dark grey clouds obscuring the usual blue sky indicating an impending summer storm.
His gaze drifted over the cobblestone pathways, and distant buildings, before he froze, his eyes narrowing.
There, by the guest wing, was the unmistakable red-headed sight of Prince Jasper, accompanied by what appeared to be Countess Fenella. There were several figures present, busy replacing the large double doors of the building.
A pang of irritation surged within him as he realized that Countess Fenella seemingly intended to accommodate Prince Jasper in the Guest Wing. While he hadn't explicitly given instructions on where to keep their new guests, he certainly didn't want Jasper staying there, so close to Cressida.
If she saw him-
His thoughts were abruptly interrupted when he felt the air stir behind him. Turning, he saw that Cressida had awakened, rubbing her puffy eyes.
Immediately, the room darkened as a quick burst of wind blasted the curtains closed.
"Good morning, my love," he said gently, trying to sound reassuring despite the underlying tension in the air.
Cressida blinked, still appearing half-asleep, her gaze shifting to the closed curtains. Confusion and concern flickered in her eyes, but she said nothing.
"I'm glad to see you up," he murmured, leaving the window to slowly approach her bed. "You slept the whole day away yesterday."
"...it's not like I have anywhere else to be." Cressida rasped.
Callidus winced, as she echoed the exact words he had told her two nights prior.
"Would you like to walk through the garden tonight?" Callidus offered, kneeling on the floor beside the bed, taking her hand in his, "I can show you the Queen's Garden."
Cressida pulled her hand away, "...no thank you." She mumbled.
Callidus felt a twinge of confusion, certain that she would agree. "You would like the garden." he said, softly, "It has a little pond with ducks." He paused, thinking of Jasper's words from yesterday, "...and frogs."
Cressida hesitated for a moment, her gaze flickering as if she was internally debating the offer. "I'm sure it's lovely," she finally replied in a distant tone, "but I don't feel like acting out another little scene for you."
YOU ARE READING
Book Two: The Larkspur's Longing ~ A tale of deep obsession and devotion
Romance(Sequel to The Marigold's Larkspur) Crown Prince Callidus finds himself on the cusp of achieving his dreams. With Princess Cressida by his side, the woman he has long yearned for, their future seems promising. However, a formidable obstacle threaten...
