Royally Bounded

Bonus Scene - Christmas Market

Hayden

I stood in my Chelsea boots and adjusted the earmuffs for Clara. She smiled, looking up at me as she helped me with my scarf. She knitted the scarf for me as a Christmas present and chose navy blue because she knew I fucking hated every other colour.

I stroked the back of her head, letting her brown strands slipping through my fingers. Her stomach was protruding underneath her sweater dress. I knew Clara had been bored of staying at home with only taking care of our kids. She stopped working because she was due soon, and I wouldn't risk the fucking chance for her to get hurt again.

"Where are we going?" She wondered as we stepped out of the front doors.

Since our kids were asleep early tonight after opening presents, I decided to take Clara out to go to the Christmas market.

"Christmas market," I answered.

Our fingers interlaced naturally. I chose not to drive. Clara enjoyed the nature, and if we walked, she could see more of our community. I only wanted to spend the most mundane life with her even if I fucking complain how mundane she was.

"I heard of it before," Clara said, her eyes brightening with curiosity. I fucking loved looking at them whenever she stared back at me. It was as if she only saw me as her world. "I didn't know that it was here in our city."

"It's a tradition every year in Imperos. We didn't go in the past because we always have shit to do for Christmas. You should see it," I told her.

She nodded in eager. We went down the slope, crossing the street to blend into the community. People who passed by recognized us, but they knew better to come close. Clara only nodded as she often did. Her other hand held onto my arm.

I didn't let any bodyguards follow us. I could protect us both, and the bodyguards would bring more unnecessary attention on us.

The Christmas market was crowded with people surrounding Clara and me. It was the last day, and families came together to attend. Clara instantly widened her smile as soon as she saw everything. I glanced over at her expression. She found joy in simplicity, and each time, the brightness on her face explained it all, and not even an angel could be held to her fucking beauty.

I let her wait as she stood by the tree. I disappeared for a moment, heading over to the stall where they sold hot chocolate. The lineup was long with others waiting. I managed to get a cup of hot chocolate in a few minutes then returned to her.

Clara glanced down at the hot chocolate before she looked up at me again. She took the styrofoam cup in her hands, letting the warmth transfer over to her skin. She took the first sip and hummed from the taste. I noticed the spot of hot chocolate on the corner of her lips. My thumb stroke over the area, and Clara heated up from my touch.

"Have some," she handed it over to me.

I wrapped my hands over hers. She helped me tilt the cup back as I drank. I hated any sweet shit, but I fucking loved sharing it with Clara. Her red lipstick mark was still on the cup, and the fact that I had my lips over it, it was so fucking satisfying to me.

She held the hot chocolate in one hand and continued to hold my hand in another. Clara found several stalls that sold localized gifts. She pulled me to the one where they were selling candles. She picked one up, opening the lid to smell it. She led it to my nose, and the strong scent made me cough.

"Smells so fucking strong," I told Clara.

"It says it is made from cinnamon, oak leaves, and bark," Clara informed. "That's an interesting combination. I want get some."