The day had finally come—Sebastian was officially declared as Duke. Despite the fierce objections from the family of the former Duke, they were left powerless to change the decision.
I had made up my mind to visit my family, so Sarah and I were busy preparing for our departure. As we stepped out of my chamber, I was startled, gasping softly in surprise. There, by the door, stood the Emperor, his arms crossed over his broad chest, watching me intently.
"Your Majesty," I greeted him respectfully, offering a slight bow of my head. His gaze locked onto mine, and for a moment, the world seemed to stand still.
"I've heard you are visiting the vassal kingdom," he said, his voice calm and steady.
"Yes, Your Majesty," I replied, ensuring my tone was soft and sweet, even though I could feel the intensity of his presence surrounding me.
He paused for a moment, composing himself. "Very well. I shall escort my wife to her carriage," he declared, his voice leaving no room for disagreement. I smiled, playing the part expected of me, "I would be honored, Your Majesty," I answered with a gracious smile, feeling the weight of his words. He extended his arm, and I took it demurely, my fingers barely touching his as we linked arms.
We walked together in silence, making our way outside the palace gates. The crisp air hit me as we emerged into the open, and my gaze shifted to the unexpected sight before me—Sebastian, mounted on his horse, along with fifteen knights, each sitting proudly on their own steeds.
"The Duke will accompany you on your journey," the Emperor informed me, his tone firm and decisive. I looked at him, considering my response, but instead of resisting, I merely nodded and smiled, deciding it was best not to argue.
"We shall depart now, Your Majesty," I said politely, giving him another small bow. He nodded in acknowledgment, and I was just about to turn away when I felt a gentle tug on my arm. It was as if a current ran through me, and before I could react, the Emperor pulled me closer. I closed my eyes, startled, and then I felt the warmth of his lips softly press against my forehead.
"Have a safe journey, wife. I will follow you soon," he whispered, his voice low and full of warmth. I bit my lip, my heart suddenly pounding in my chest, each beat echoing in my ears.
I quickly turned away, not wanting the Emperor to see the flush that had overtaken my cheeks. The heat rising in my face betrayed the calm exterior I struggled to maintain. I could feel the color rushing to my skin, and I knew I must have been glowing red.
Without a second glance, I hurried into the carriage and sat down, placing my hand over my chest as if to steady the wild beating of my heart. Damn, this isn’t good. Sarah settled beside me, and the carriage began to move almost immediately.
I swallowed hard, unable to resist the urge to glance out the window. There, standing tall and unwavering, was the Emperor, his gaze following us as the carriage pulled away. He remained rooted in place, watching as we slowly disappeared into the distance, his figure becoming smaller, yet never fading from my mind.
Nagulat ako nang nakarating si Sebastian sa gilid mula sa likod. Ngumisi siya sa akin kaya agad akong napaismid. "Do you like him already?" he asked, his voice dripping with teasing playfulness.
I didn't bother answering. Instead, I closed the curtain in his face. I heard him laugh softly from the other side. I rested my chin on my hand, sighing. Do I like him? Already? I closed my eyes tightly, trying to shake off the thought. I hope not.
YOU ARE READING
The Greatest Villainess (Completed)
Historical Fiction𝕮𝖍𝖗𝖔𝖓𝖎𝖛𝖆𝖑𝖊 𝕯𝖚𝖔𝖑𝖔𝖌𝖞 𝐈𝐈 Adil was a writer whose life came to a tragic end at the hands of one of her reader. She thought that was the final chapter of her existence, that her story had reached an irreversible conclusion. However, fa...
