Ambition and Destiny

👑 Chapter Twenty-nine 👑

The Marchioness Sophia crossed her arms over her chest and swung the decree with her right hand, exuding a commanding presence. "Which situation are you referring to, young lady? Is it about how you became Egmond or how Felix ended up under house arrest?" She waited for Annie's response, gesturing with authority.

Feeling under pressure, she decided to start by explaining the investigation. "You see, Your Ladyship, an investigation was conducted to uncover the reasons behind my adoption, considering I am of commoner origins. Hence, his Majesty ceased accusing him of overstepping his duties and misusing his position."

"Annie of Egmond," she said, her tone betraying none of the emotions swirling beneath the surface. "I appreciate your efforts in securing Felix's release. It is a relief to know that my son will no longer be confined."

"I would greatly appreciate it if you could go to Felix and personally deliver the wonderful news to him. The maids will guide you to him." She then handed the decree to Annie.

With a slight nod, Annie accepted the decree and proceeded to walk alongside the maids, leaving Henrik in the company of Lady Sophia. The maids guided Annie through the winding paths of the woodland that was part of Clifford's estate, and she couldn't help but be filled with a peaceful feeling. The overwhelming green surroundings and the gentle sound of raindrops caressing the leaves created a sense of calm within her.

Eventually, they arrived at the spot where Felix was taking a nap on a thick tree branch, his peaceful sleep undisturbed by the world around him. Annie approached him quietly, not wanting to startle him from his rest.

⟪ As I saw him, he still seemed half asleep. His gaze was still blurred, and a peaceful expression settled on his face as he felt my presence. The sight warmed my heart and made me smile.⟫

Felix stirred from his sleep. Leaning on the truck, he looked down to see Annie standing below him. "Annie?" he mumbled, rubbing his eyes. "What are you doing here?"

Annie smiled up at him, her eyes twinkling with mischief. "I've come to rescue you," she declared with a playful grin. "But I need you to stay still."

After a moment of realisation, he yelled in surprise, "Shouldn't you be lying on your bed, taking some rest? What are you doing here and under the rain?!"

As he raised his voice, Annie giggled, "You're the one sitting on a tree trunk, and it's raining!"

He rolled his eyes as he found no appropriate reply to give. Annie took a few steps back, assessing the tree and calculating her next move. "I mean, I'm going to climb up there and join you," she explained, her voice determined. "But first, I need to ensure I can reach you."

With crossed arms, he tilted his head and watched her determined expression. Annie stepped forward and placed her hands on the rough bark of the tree, preparing to pull herself up. However, as she attempted to climb, her long dress got caught on a protruding branch, causing her to stumble backwards.

Felix couldn't help but chuckle at her failed attempt, his laughter echoing through the woodland. "Careful there, Annie," he called down to her, amusement evident in his voice. "You might want to rethink your technique."

She shot him a mocking glare until he moved down flexibly, offering his hand to help her up to his level. With a playful glint in her eyes, she accepted his gesture.

Taking a deep breath, Annie placed her foot on Felix's cupped hands, using them as a makeshift step as she began to ascend the tree. With each step, Felix's hands supported her weight and guided her movements.

Finally, after a few moments of careful motion, her breath came in short gasps as she settled beside him on the sturdy branch. With a cheerful smile, she turned to him, gratitude shining in her eyes as she thanked him for his assistance.

enjoying the view of the woodland below. With a shared laugh, they sat side by side, content in each other's company.

"Before I forget," Annie said as she handed him the decree, which she had kept hidden inside her sleeve to prevent it from getting wet.

Felix studied it with winded eyes, yet his expression hardened as he met Annie's gaze. "Annie, please tell me!"

Annie stopped swinging her legs as the mood shifted serious.

"I know my uncle very well. He is not the type of man who goes back on his word, except when faced with bargaining. So, please tell me, What is it that you have given up to the King?". Instead of joy and excitement, she saw concern and even a hint of anger in his eyes.

She lowered her head, biting her lower lips, and found a convincing answer for her bold action. "You know how I have been searching for a way to go back to my father?" she began, turning her gaze downward.

"Annie, I feel unworthy to say it, but," he began, his voice tender with remorse, "I owe you an apology. I should have told you the truth about your father's fate long ago. I should have been honest with you from the start, instead of allowing you to believe he was still alive."

"I'm so sorry, Annie," Felix continued, his voice thick with emotion. "I never meant to deceive you or hurt you in any way. I was just trying to protect you, to shield you from the pain of knowing the truth. But I see now that I only caused you more pain by keeping it from you."

"I know; I know that you tried hard to help me, and took me to the festival to ensure I'm having fun in the middle of the mess I'm in " she said, looking up, trying to block the tears from rolling down.

"You don't have to accept my apology. I felt the urge to say it; otherwise, I can't." He couldn't complete the sentence as he felt at a loss for words.

"It does matter now. In fact, I don't want to talk about it."

"Because I feel like I will burst into tears like a baby," she admitted to herself.