Color of Roses

Loss

Chapter 42

Our bags were packed and a carriage waited outside the castle gates ready to leave to one of the king's lakeside mansion. I was excited to spend some time alone with Alyn. I lift my suitcase off the bed and it lands on the ground with a thump. Alyn takes it out of my hands swiftly. "You shouldn't be lifting any heavy objects. I'll take it."

"It's not that heavy," I say with a pout. It was charming to see he was concerned for my wellbeing but I didn't like being babied all the time. He lifts his eyebrow at me and lifts the case only to let it land once again with a loud thump. "You sure about that? As your husband I demand you let me carry your luggage."

I give him a playful glare before a smile breaks across my face. "Fine, take it." He leans down and gives me a soft kiss before grabbing our bags.

"I wouldn't leave just yet," a voice says at the door. Giles stands in the doorway crossing his arms over his chest. His face is calm but his eyes are dim. "I have some news."

Alyn sets down the bags and places his hands on his waist. "What's this about?"

"It seems the king's illness has gotten worse over the past few days and the doctor's examining him right now. It doesn't look good," Giles says. His eyes glance at the floor and I can see sadness lurking beneath his calm demeanor.

Alyn's arms go limp at his sides and I sense his mood changing dramatically. Giles releases a pained sigh before speaking again. "I'd like to ask you both to postpone your honey moon for now."

"I understand," Alyn says softly. Giles leaves the room and I look up into Alyn's face. "Are you okay?"

His eyes glance down and he forces a smile. "I'm alright. I'm sure it's nothing to worry about."

I know he's lying but I don't want to argue. I accept his answer and hope for his sake the king recovers.

"The air feels so warm; don't you agree?" I say stretching my arms out. Alyn walks beside me, his mind wandering. "Hm? Yeah," he murmurs.

"You're worried about him, aren't you?"

Alyn's eyes narrow. His lips purse into a fine line and I reach down and grab his hand. "I'm fine," he says at my gesture. "Really."

"No you're not. I hate seeing you in pain like this."

"You don't need to worry about it," he says patting me gently on my head. His fingers slide down my hair placing it behind my ear.

"I'm your wife now; it's my job to worry."

He chuckles softly. He pulls me close and gives me a soft squeeze. His chin rests on my head he remains quiet. I stay still in his arms allowing him to hold me in hopes it'll bring him comfort.

"Princess Aria and Prince Alyn," someone yells from across the gardens. Alyn releases his hold and we face the direction the voice came from. A distraught servant runs over to us with an uneasy expression.

"The king-" he says breathless, "the king has passed."