Thorns of Arrangement (f/f arranged marriage / enemies to lovers)

Toy

I continued my day, lounging with a book until it was time for the council meeting and headed to the conference room. In the back of my mind I wondered why we had made this alliance. My father was a kind king but also prideful. I knew he wanted to accept the humans into our society, but it felt dangerous considering their disdain for us. That was clear with Alvena's view.

When I entered the round room, I saw every member of the king's circle, and an additional chair was added to the mix. I groaned silently and sat at my place, staring at that damn chair. Bregius sat to my left and spoke, startling me from the mind numbing brain rot that consumed me. I turned to face him as he continued to speak. "Congratulations on meeting your new human bride. You must be elated that your father's plans are coming to fruition."

I attempted a thin smile. "Yes, I feel quite lucky to support my father in his endeavors."

This seemed to tame his curiosity and he picked up his goblet to take a swig. I turned to face that damned chair again and was startled a second time to see Alvena leaned against the back, her arms crossed and legs spread in the most cocky display of indifference. I couldn't help my frown that won a smile from her. Her blue eyes seemed to glow in the dim lighting.

Father began to speak, going over our citizens' issues and requests. Then he spoke about separating lands and appointing new human lords.

"I know this may be a difficult venture, but our people have to accept the humans joining with us. We must seek peace and understanding. There is more than enough to share." He continued on, using a long wooden stick to point to areas on the map at the center. I watched, listening intently before my gaze slipped up to Alvena's. She had leaned forward in her seat, her sharp eyes watching my father point and explain. Clearly she cared about the future of her people and I wondered if this made her more aware of our compassion.

We continued to listen to father's plans and at the conclusion he smiled and looked to Alvena for input. "Do you think this is a productive start to our assimilation?" He asked. He looked so genuine with care it warmed my heart.

She nodded as she peered at the map, then uncrossed her arms. "I think this is a good start Krystos, this will open up many opportunities." She pondered a moment. "Would we have support among your citizens to furnish these lands?"

"I have already appointed our most experienced land experts to support your people during this time, including the provision of crops and animals ready for breeding." He explained.

This seemed to resonate with Alvena and she nodded her head. "Thank you Krystos," she replied.

The rest of my father's party said their peace in regard to his plans and it was overall a positive experience. Soon everyone had gathered to their feet and headed out of the room. I took a separate door from Alvena and it was my turn to glance at her walking away. She was rigid and uptight in the mind, but she moved with quiet grace. I couldn't help but look her up and down. Toned and evenly proportioned. Long dark hair pulled into a neat bun. I imagined it undone, my hands pulling through it. I felt my face flush and hurried out the door before I embarrassed myself.

—-

The rest of the day was peaceful, doing my best to push Alvena out of my mind which I found fruitless. I couldn't get her off of my mind, in both negative and invigorating ways. She was haughty and rude but also captivating. I couldn't help imagine her letting down the front and kissing me where she had pinned me against the statue. I replayed the memory in my mind but replaced her hand over my mouth with her own mouth. I closed my eyes and sighed.

I had been walking aimlessly through the estate, and just as I rounded the corner, my body lay flush with another. My gasp was audible as I spun into a tall figure, losing my balance. A strong arm caught me and pulled me back. I fell against them, looking up to see my savior. Of course, it was Alvena and I pushed her away from me.