Happy reading.....
After a long and fulfilling day in the kitchen, Princess Elara felt the exhaustion settle into her bones. The warmth and joy from the morning’s success were still with her, but her body craved rest and relaxation. She decided a hot bath would be the perfect way to unwind.
Elara made her way to the royal bathing chamber, a luxurious room with marble floors and a large, sunken tub that was already filled with steaming water. The maids were waiting, ready to assist her, but Elara gave them a gentle smile and shook her head.
“Thank you, but I wish to be alone,” she said softly, her voice betraying her fatigue. “I need some time to myself.”
The maids exchanged glances, hesitant to leave their princess unattended, but they respected her wishes and curtsied before departing.
“As you wish, Your Highness. If you need anything, we will be just outside,” one of them said before they closed the door behind them.
Elara sighed with relief as she untied her gown and let it fall to the floor. She stepped into the hot water, the warmth enveloping her like a comforting embrace. She sank deeper into the bath, letting the water soothe her aching muscles. Closing her eyes, she allowed herself to relax, the events of the day fading into the background.
Meanwhile, Prince Tristan had been searching for Elara. He had been deeply touched by her gesture that morning and had a special gift for her: a beautiful jewelry set, a token of his appreciation and a symbol of his growing admiration for her. He carried the velvet box with him as he searched the palace, asking servants and maids if they had seen her.
Finally, he approached her chambers and called out, “Elara, are you here?”
Hearing her husband’s voice, Elara opened her eyes and called back, “I’m in the bath, Tristan.”
Without giving it much thought, Tristan opened the door to the bathing chamber and walked in. In his mind, it was perfectly natural to be with his wife, even in such a private moment. However, he was unprepared for the sight that greeted him.
Elara was half-submerged in the water, her golden hair cascading over the edge of the tub, her skin glistening in the steam. Her eyes widened in shock as she realized he had entered the room.
“Tristan!” she exclaimed, instinctively covering herself with her hands. “What are you doing?”
Tristan froze, the sight of her taking his breath away. He had never seen her like this, so vulnerable and beautiful. He quickly averted his gaze, his face flushing with embarrassment.
“I’m sorry, Elara,” he stammered, turning his back to give her some semblance of privacy. “I didn’t mean to intrude. I just wanted to give you something.”
Elara’s initial shock began to subside, replaced by a mix of curiosity and amusement. “What is it?”
Tristan cleared his throat, still facing away from her. “It’s a gift. To thank you for the wonderful meal you prepared this morning.”
Elara’s heart softened at his words. “That’s very kind of you, Tristan. But perhaps you could leave it outside the door? I’ll look at it once I’m finished.”
Tristan nodded, still not turning around. “Of course. I’m truly sorry for barging in like this. I’ll just… I’ll leave it here.” He set the velvet box on a small table near the door and quickly exited the room, closing the door behind him.
Elara chuckled softly to herself, shaking her head. The encounter, while startling, had shown her another side of Tristan – a side that was considerate and genuine, albeit a bit impulsive. She finished her bath, the warmth and relaxation restoring her energy. After drying off and donning a robe, she approached the table and opened the velvet box.
Inside was a stunning jewelry set: a necklace of delicate gold filigree adorned with sapphires, matching earrings, and a bracelet. The craftsmanship was exquisite, and Elara could see the thought and care Tristan had put into choosing such a gift. She felt a surge of appreciation and a growing warmth towards her husband.
Later that night, as they prepared for bed, Elara decided to address the incident. She wanted to ensure that their relationship was built on mutual respect and understanding.
“Tristan,” she began as they settled into their chambers, “thank you for the beautiful gift. It means a lot to me.”
Tristan looked up, his expression a mix of relief and gratitude. “I’m glad you like it, Elara. I wanted to show you how much I appreciate your efforts.”
Elara nodded, her eyes meeting his with sincerity. “I do appreciate it. And I also appreciate your willingness to apologize. But in the future, please remember to respect my privacy, especially in such moments.”
Tristan nodded earnestly. “I understand. I’ll be more mindful. I promise.”
They shared a small, understanding smile, the earlier awkwardness fading into the background. It was a small step, but an important one, towards building a relationship based on respect, kindness, and genuine affection.
As they settled into their bed, the room filled with a comfortable silence, both of them felt a newfound sense of connection. The journey ahead was still long, but moments like these, of honesty and vulnerability, would pave the way towards a stronger bond and a brighter future for both of them.
*******
🙈 🌝 Prince are you fine?
Vote and comment.
@/authorShazShaik on Instagram 💙
Allah Hafiz ✨
YOU ARE READING
THE ROYAL PACT
Fiksi SejarahIn the kingdom of Arandor, Crown Prince Tristan is bound by duty to marry Princess Elara, a union meant to secure peace between their warring dynasties. Resentful and longing for a wife of his own choosing, Tristan reluctantly agrees. But when he fi...