𝐓𝐑𝐎𝐔𝐕𝐀𝐈𝐋𝐋𝐄 ➤ 𝒉𝒂𝒅𝒆𝒔 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒑𝒆𝒓𝒔𝒆𝒑𝒉𝒐𝒏𝒆

xxv. unexpected royal relatives

That morning, Hades sat at his ornate mahogany desk, his brow furrowed in concentration as he read through the endless scrolls and parchment that required his attention.

The sun's warm rays flitted through the windows, casting a soft glow throughout the room. The faint scent of parchment and ink permeated the room, mingling with the fragrance of the fresh flowers that illuminated the four corners of his office.

Though the Underworld prospered under Hades' rule, the responsibilities that came with the crown were overwhelming. Decisions about each soul's fate, logistics, and policies for Elysium, Asphodel, and Tartarus all demanded his full focus. His quill scratched steadily across the page as he signed his name to yet another document.

The heavy wooden door to his office creaked open, and a figure stepped inside, breaking his focused solitude.

"Good morning, my Lord,"

Hades looked up, and his expression softened instantly as he saw the beautiful goddess who had captured his heart three months ago.

Persephone glided into the room, her lavender gown whispering against the stone floor. Her chestnut hair fell loosely around her face, radiating an ethereal brilliance.

"Hello, my sunshine," he greeted, his stern demeanor melting away as he set down his quill. "To what do I owe the pleasure?"

She approached his desk, her eyes twinkling with mischief. "Can't I visit my beloved king?"

"Of course not, sweetness," he replied, leaning back in his chair. "But the look on your face tells me you are planning something."

She laughed softly, a sound that always seemed to alleviate his burdens. "Maybe I am. You've been cooped up in here forever, Hades. The kingdom will not fall apart if you take a short break."

Hades sighed, glancing at the mountain of paperwork in front of him. "First and foremost, I have only been cooped up here for two hours. Second, I wish it were that simple, Seph. There is much to be done.

Persephone hummed as she stepped behind his chair, resting her hands on his shoulders. She began kneading the tension out of his muscles, her touch gentle but firm.

"All the more reason to devote some time to yourself. Let's spend the day together, hm?"

He closed his eyes while her fingers massaged his tired muscles.

He shook his head and resumed his work, his quill moving once more across the parchment. "I appreciate your concern, but these matters must be addressed right away."

Persephone pouted, her lower lip protruding in a way that weakened his resolve. She then bent down and whispered into his ear, her breath warm against it. "Not even for me?"

"Seph," he warned, his voice lacking genuine conviction.

Undaunted, she moved around the desk to stand beside him. She perched on the edge of the desk, her gown cascading around her, moving deliberately and slowly.

"Maybe I can help you," she offered, lightly tracing the edge of a piece of paper.

Hades' eyes shifted to her, then back to his work. "You're distracting me, Seph," he chuckled darkly.

"Am I?" Persephone asked innocently "Maybe that's exactly what you need."

He groaned as she spoke, finally putting his quill down. His resolve weakened as he allowed himself to savor the moment.

"You do realize you are reducing my productivity."

"No,"

He arched his brow and gently tugged on her girdle. She squealed and landed on his lap with a cat-like grace. His lips curved into a small, mischievous grin as he wrapped his arms around her waist, holding her steady with his grip.