Crowns Of Fate (on Hold)

Chapter 39

DEMETRIUS AND ELARA'S STORY

G E N E R A L  P O V

[This takes place just after they return from the royal camp and after Taehyung and Demetrius reconciled. Between Chapter 15 and 16.]

King Demetrius stood a few steps behind Elara, watching her intently. 

The sun cast a warm glow over the garden, bathing Elara in a soft light as she read her book. For the first time, he truly saw her — the way her eyes lit up when she turned a page, the peaceful expression on her face, and the grace with which she moved even in stillness. How had he missed this?

Clearing his throat, he tried to mask his nervousness. "Your Majesty," he called out softly, breaking the serene silence.

Elara turned, her eyes widening slightly in surprise. She quickly composed herself and stood, curtsying gracefully. "Your Majesty. Is everything okay?" she asked, her voice calm but laced with caution.

Demetrius took a deep breath, summoning the courage he usually reserved for matters of state. "Elara, I was wondering if you might join me for coffee. I... I'd like to talk."

Elara blinked, clearly taken aback. "Coffee?" she repeated, as if testing the word. "I have a meeting with the courtiers in a short while."

"Could I join you?" he asked, his voice faltering slightly. "I'd like to understand more about your duties and... and spend some time with you."

Elara studied him, her skepticism evident. "You wish to join a meeting with the courtiers?" she asked slowly, clearly searching for any hidden motive.

Demetrius nodded earnestly. "Yes, if you'll allow it. I want to learn more about what you do. I... I realize I've been unfair to you, Elara. I'd like to change that."

Her eyes searched his, looking for signs of insincerity. She found none, only a genuine desire that seemed to surprise even him. "Very well," she said finally. "You may join me."

As they walked toward the meeting room, Demetrius tried to make conversation, but Elara's responses were brief and polite, revealing little. Once they arrived, the courtiers were visibly surprised to see the King joining them.

Elara took her place at the head of the table, her demeanor professional and composed. "Let's begin," she said, nodding to the courtiers.

Throughout the meeting, Demetrius watched Elara with a new appreciation. She was knowledgeable, decisive, and commanded respect effortlessly. He marveled at how she navigated the complex issues and intricate politics, her wisdom and intelligence shining through.

When the meeting ended, the courtiers filed out, leaving Demetrius and Elara alone. He hesitated, then said, "You were remarkable in there."

Elara's eyes softened slightly, though her guard remained up. "Thank you," she replied. "But why now, Demetrius? Why this sudden interest?"

Demetrius took a deep breath, stepping closer to her. "Because I've been a fool, Elara. I was so focused on my duties and my sons that I never gave us a chance. I see now that I've been unfair to you. You're an incredible woman, and I want to know you better. I want to make amends."

Elara looked at him for a long moment, her expression unreadable. "It's not that simple," she said finally. "Respect and trust aren't built in a day, especially not after being disregarded for so long."

"I know," he said, his voice earnest. "But I'm willing to put in the effort if you'll let me. I want to make things right."

She studied him, seeing the genuine regret and determination in his eyes. "We'll see," she said softly. "Actions speak louder than words, Demetrius."