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chapter thirty-eight, affairs and scandals.
FRANCESCA WAS A VISION, everyone knew that. Aaron definitely knew that. Francesca never failed to take his breath away, and this time wasn't any different.
Francesca descended the grand staircase, entering the ballroom. It was yet another ball, but this one in particular was a celebration. It was Francesca's 23rd birthday.
Clinging to her curves, flowing in the wind, complementing Francesca's soft features as a gorgeous red dress. Its skirt was a pencil skirt that simmered in the light, took and excess fabric creating a train behind her. The tool and fabric wrapped around her like a belt, making it look more elegant. It was a strapless dress, so Francesca spritzed some glitter on her colorbone. Sliver earrings dangled from her delicate ears, her hair was perfectly curled and styled, her dainty necklace fell into the valley of her breasts.
The mere sight of his wife made Aaron's mouth go dry. But this sight? It made his mind go crazy. Red was his family's color and seeing his wife in the desired color....it made his brain go foggy and his pants tighten.
As Francesca reached the last few steps, Aaron stepped forward. He offered his arm, his eyes never leaving her body. Francesca smiled as she interlocked their arms, moving closer to her husband.
"Is something wrong, mon amour?" Francesca asked softly, cupping his cheek as concern ate away at her features.
"I...uh..." *Aarons eyes trailed over her body once more.*
"Am I hideous?"
"God, no, Mon cœur, you are stunning," Aaron reassured, leading her to the dance floor. The two started their waltz, looking into each others eyes tenderly.
"Then what is wrong, Aar?" Francesca pressed, worried that something had happened whilst she was getting ready.
"Red and blue are my family colors, seeing you wear red....you have no idea how much I need you right now." Aaron groaned, causing Francesca to blush deeply.
"Then I shall be certain to wear them more often," Francesca smiled, pressing her chest against his arms they danced.
The two danced across the ballroom, the guests forming a circle around them. Aaron spun them and dipped her, his eyes and heart full of tender love and affection. He would never not be starstruck by Francesca.
The music came to a stop, fading out just as Aaron dipped Francesca. His hand held onto her waist securely while the other rested on her back. He was close enough to smell the sweetness and intoxicating scent of her perfume. He practically buried his face in her neck, inhaling the scent.
He was addicted to her. His whole body yearned to be in her presence as if she was some sort of goddess. And to him? She was. She was his everything. He slowly brought her back up, holding her close. He cupped her cheek tenderly, keeping his other hand on her waist.
"I am the luckiest man here, and I will forever be thankful for that," Aaron whispers, gently pressing his lips against hers for a sweet and tender kiss.
Francesca wrapped her arms around his neck, pulling him closer. Her heart sped up just from his touch, but her whole body burned at his kiss.
They pulled away and went to their thrones, sitting on them and watching the people of their country dance. It was a joyous day, and they strived to make their people happy. And they did.
***
A FEW HOURS HAD PASSED, the ball was still in full swing. Aaron had since left his throne, going to talk with his men. Business deals and harmless conversations preoccupied his evening, but now he was relaxing and taking to his friend, Ricky.
Across the room, Francesca stood, watching the people of France dance with smiles on their faces. She felt a man stand next to her but didn't pay it any attention, she thought it was just a guard standing there.
"Happy birthday, my queen," a chilling voice rings through Francesca's ears. Without looking at him, she could feel the smug smirk on Watson's face.
"What are you doing here?"
"This was an open invite, was it not?" Watson moved closer, causing Francesca to move away. But Watson followed, his intentions unclear but his stubbornness not wavering.
"Oh come on, my queen, you won't even hear me out?" Watson grins, grabbing her hand to stop her. She rips her hand away.
"Don't you dare touch me! I will have you thrown out of here!"
"My queen, all I am saying is that it is unfair for a King to be allowed to have mistresses with no repercussions. Why can't the Queen have her fun?" Watson moved closer, a nasty grin on his face.
"Are you not only insinuating that my husband is cheating on me but that I shall have an affair with you?" Francesca stood up taller, anger filling her veins and disbelief running through her mind.
"In other words, yes." Watson grins, about to grab onto her waist but he is hit with a nasty surprise. Literally, hit. Francesca, without a thought, slapped his cheek. Harshly.
The loud sound carried through the ballroom, causing all dancing and music to cease. Aaron, who became aware of the situation because of Ricky, was at her side in an instant.
"I want him out, Aaron." Francesca looked at Aaron, who just pulled her close. A understanding look falls upon his face.
"Then he shall never step foot in our home again-"
"Of the country." Francesca confirms, glaring at Watson. Aaron was a bit taken aback, she was never like this.
"Are you sure, my dear?"
"What is it going to prove that he is a danger? Him hurting me?" Francesca says, fear filling her eyes at the thought. Insanely, Aaron glares at Watson and orders the guards to assure Watson's deportation.
"Please, continue the festivités if you'd like," Francesca assured the citizens. They all went back to their business. "I'm going to go lie down," Francesca told Aaron, kissing his cheek. His hand squeezed hers.
"I'll go with you, my love." Aaron said, not letting room for an argument. Francesca smiled softly before nodding, leaving the room with Aaron's hand in hers.
The two, hand in hand, walked to their private chambers. The halls were quiet and dark, creating a peaceful and tense atmosphere. However, soon enough, these castle walls would be filled with more joy than ever experienced. Only time will tell why.
