The Emperor's Concubine

Chapter Twenty-Seven

I toss and turn all night, unable to sleep.
I can only think back to Cabel's deep voice in my ear. His arms gently holding me, and his feather light fingers brushing my hair back.

"Why did he do that?" I whisper to myself.
I sigh, sitting up.
Due to the incident in the golden palace, my residence has been moved to the royal palace. I look around the large unfamiliar bedroom, decorated with oil paintings and a glossy marble floor. The window with a view of the garden, lit up by the moon.

"He spoke so gently..." I unconsciously whisper.
Stunned by the reminder of him, I shake my head, burying my face in the pillows.
I groan unable to forget his voice and smile.

"My lady, did you have any sleep?" Lance asks, pouring tea.
"Unfortunately, not much. I kept overthinking."
My eyes feeling puffy and sore, I rub them as I attempt to stay awake.
Lance sighs as he looks me in the eyes.
"I understand, everything that happened yesterday must have taken a toll on your thoughts."
At the sound of his words, my cheeks begin feeling flush.
Emperor Cabel pops into mind as I think about how sweet his voice and touches were.

"My lady, would you like some sleeping tea tonight?" He asks.
"N-No, that won't be necessary. I'm sure it'll be fine tonight." I stammer, unable to tell Lance that my restless night was due to the emperor.
"I see. If you change your mind, do let me know."
"I will, thank you. How's Maggie doing?" I ask, taking a sip of my tea.
"She's doing well for now. She's going to rest for a month or two until she fully feels better. She seems to have a broken shoulder."
"Ah I see."
Lance sighs as he smiles kindly.
"My lady, her injuries are not your fault." He gently speaks, reminding me.
"I know... I still wish I could have protected her, or did something to stop it earlier."
"You did the best you could. She in turn, also protected you."
"What do you mean?"
"She explained that she had to lie to you, about who was hurting her.  The ladies threatened to hurt you if she didn't comply. They told her of your past, and she wanted to ensure you were never hurt again... Every time the emperor sent a letter, Lady Renesha's maid would receive it first and hurt Magnolia before she gave it to you. It appears they wanted you to hate the emperor for their plan. Thankfully, his highness put those plans to an end before it got worse."
I nod slightly and smile.
"I see... Thank you for telling me."

I walk through the palace garden wearing a beautiful pale green gown, with long slit sleeves and a square cut neckline. A fabric corset tied around my waist, accented with an emerald crystal necklace, and light emerald green heels.
I roam the garden, admiring the flowers that begin to bloom.
The snow almost completely melted, the sun shining brightly as it gives a pleasant warm temperature.

"It's almost been a year since I came here..." I whisper to myself, watching the season change.
I admire the light of the sun as it melts the snow on the vibrantly green grass, with dew glimmering under the sunlight.

Suddenly, warm arms wrap around me from behind.
Startled, I jump, turning my head to see the emperor, resting his head on my shoulder.

"Y-Your highness?" I stutter, surprised by how close he stands.
"Cabel. I told you to call me Cabel." He cuts me off, yet his voice is gentle as he smiles slightly looking down at me.
He stands up straight, keeping his arms wrapped around my waist.
"C-Cabel." I embarrassedly speak.
An amused smile grows on his lips as I say his name.
My cheeks warm up—feeling like it's turning into a shade far redder than his eyes—looking at his devilishly attractive smile up close.

"What are you doing out here?" He asks.
"I-I was admiring the flowers. It didn't feel nice to stay in the room all day... Are you taking a break?" I ask, looking up at him.
My heart begins pounding as he tightens his arms around me.
"Yes, I suppose I am. I saw you through the window and wanted to have some time together."
"I-I see."
My mind blanks, my cheeks feeling hot enough to the point where steam could emit from my head.