Transcending Fate (Transmigrated to an Otome Game)

A Night at the Duchy

The guest room at the duchy was magnificent, adorned with elegant furniture and luxurious fabrics.

Yet, Alaric was too tired to appreciate any of it. He collapsed onto the sofa, unable to make it to the bed, and fell into a deep sleep almost instantly.

A gentle knock on the door echoed through the room, and the door was slowly pushed open.

Duke Cedric entered, his eyes scanning the room. Noticing the empty bed, his gaze shifted to the sofa, where Alaric lay sleeping peacefully. The sight took Cedric's breath away. Alaric's cheeks were rosy from the alcohol, his lips slightly pouted, making him look dazzlingly innocent.

Cedric felt his heart race, unable to understand why he was reacting this way. Alaric seemed different lately—his manner of speaking, his behavior, his fashion sense.

Cedric found himself liking this new Alaric more and more. Thoughts he couldn't quite grasp flitted through his mind.

Gently, Cedric picked Alaric up in his arms, carrying him like a princess to the bed. He placed Alaric down gently, tucking him in.

As he did so, Alaric mumbled something in his sleep. Curious, Cedric leaned in closer, Alaric's warm breath brushing against his ear, making it blush.

"I want more cake," Alaric murmured.

Cedric chuckled softly. "Fine," he whispered, amused by the simple, endearing request.

After ensuring Alaric was comfortably tucked in, Cedric moved toward the door. As he stepped into the hallway, he found Gabriel standing just outside. An understanding passed between them, and Cedric noticed a hint of jealousy in Gabriel's eyes that was carefully masked.

"I came by to see if Alaric is alright," Gabriel said. "I can give him a blessing to ensure he sleeps well."

Cedric was reluctant but couldn't find a reason to refuse. Before he could say anything, Gabriel added, "By the way, the prince wishes to see you before he departs for the palace."

With a final, uncertain glance back at Alaric's door, Cedric nodded and left to meet Prince Lucian.

Once Cedric was out of sight, a smirk crossed Gabriel's lips. He quietly entered Alaric's room, closing the door behind him. The room was dimly lit, casting a soft glow on Alaric's serene face.

Gabriel approached the bed, his gaze lingering on Alaric. "Alaric," he whispered softly, leaning closer. "You're quite an enigma."

He placed his hand gently on Alaric's forehead, whispering a blessing. A warm, gentle light enveloped Alaric, ensuring he slept soundly. Gabriel's hand lingered longer than necessary, his thoughts swirling with a mixture of possessiveness and curiosity.

After a moment, he withdrew his hand, his eyes never leaving Alaric's peaceful face. "Sleep well, Alaric," he murmured, a hint of something deeper in his voice.

Gabriel quietly exited the room, closing the door behind him. He stood in the hallway for a moment, collecting his thoughts before heading back to his own quarters.

The events of the night left him with a growing sense of intrigue and a desire to uncover more about the enigmatic Alaric.