To Be In Your Arms Again

Chapter 5: Beautiful

You looked at yourself in the mirror in awe that the dress Ignis had bought in for you fit you perfectly. You couldn't recall ever telling Ignis your size or preference in women's wear. As always, he did splendidly. It was a chiffon, 3/4 sleeve button up dress that stopped just at your knees. There were several layers to the skirt, as it flared slightly from the tie at your waist. The simple purple floral print that covered the entire dress did wonders in matching the white low-heeled pumps you had worn last night. Two hands placed themselves lovingly on either side of your waist, with the owner planting a quick kiss on your shoulder. You tucked your hair behind your ear in an attempt to hide your shyness at the small sign of affection. Noctis stood close behind you and placed another soft kiss on the side of your head. You saw the satisfied smile having smelt your hair.

"I dunno why, but it's oddly satisfying smelling my shampoo in your hair," Noctis admitted, his eyes flickering to yours in the mirror. Though he was standing behind you, you knew he was already wearing his Royal Fatigues, ready for another long day of work ahead. Why you had been summoned to join him and his father for lunch was beyond your knowledge. It was unlikely you were needed there unless something was afoot without you knowing.

"Well I did use your shower Noct," You replied, unable to maintain eye contact. Noctis chuckled and pressed his lips to the side of your head again.

"Joining you briefly for your shower was also quite satisfying," He whispered seductively, causing you to blush several shades darker.

"I didn't ask for company mind you," You mumbled.

"Well, considering how beautiful you look in the dress Ignis brought in for you. I'd say my joining you was well warranted," Noctis said in a matter-of-fact manner. You looked up at him, raising an eyebrow, having picked up on the jealousy in his tone.

"You may sound well put together Noct. But I can tell you're not too pleased with this outfit," You pointed out, turning around to face him. Noctis poked your sides earning a giggle in response.

"How so? You look beautiful," Noctis asked.

"Why thank you, Your Highness," You said, curtsying a little, lifting the side of your skirt. Before heading towards the door, "But I believe it's not how I look in it that's got you bothered. It's the fact Ignis had picked and bought it for me," You finished, enjoying the wash of surprise on Noctis' face before he joined you to leave the room.

"That I can't deny. If I have anything to do with it, that'll be the last time Ignis will ever have to buy you anything really," Noctis replied, closing his bedroom door behind him and holding out his elbow for you. You laughed lightly at his jealousy and rested your arm through his, walking comfortably with him to meet with his father.

"Your Majesty," You greeted politely with a bow.

"It's so nice to see you after so long (Your Name)," Regis greeted warmly, "Shall we?" He gestured towards the outdoor dining set that awaited them in the courtyard, "I hope you forgive this old man's request. I only wish to enjoy lunch with someone whom my son believes such beautiful weather does not rival to in beauty," he explained, giving an all-knowing smile to you as Noctis pulled out your chair, gesturing you to sit. You held back a giggle having seen the blush that graced the young Prince's cheeks.

"The pleasure is all mine, Your Majesty," You returned, straightening yourself after placing the napkin on your lap. You realized Regis had seated himself in front of both your seats, leaving you to wonder whether this lunch had a reason behind it, besides enjoying the good weather.

"I thought you had meetings throughout the morning Father?" Noctis asked, having sat down to your left.

"I have. Yet the one at 11 ended earlier than expected, having made progress in the morning meeting," Regis replied.