𝐀𝐔𝐃𝐑𝐄𝐘
"I'm really glad you're doing okay Orchid" I smiled, holding her hands in mine I squeezed them gently, expressing my gratitude. "You're going to be at the feast right"
She grinned nodding excitedly, "Of course I am. I won't miss it for anything. I have been in bed for far to long now, I'm sure the high spirits will loft my mood" she winked at me and I raised a brow at her to which she just turned to take a seat at the foot of my bed.
"You ladies are going to be accompanying her grace to the feast tonight, everyone should be on their best behavior, I mean it" Faye's strict glare was sent to us all but mostly at Greer although I couldn't blame her. Greer had this mischievous snug look on her face like she was planning something.
"Greer pay attention" Ruby pulled Greer's ear and she whined, massaging her probably already throbbing ear.
"I am, I am" she repeated nodding her head in false understanding.
"It'll be a full palace tonight, all the kitchen maids have been running around for the past few weeks in preparation. A lot of dignitaries are going to be there even the elders, it's a very important occasion for her grace to get acquainted with the very people that might stand as threats to her role as future queen so she needs to make a good impression" I gulped down hard, suddenly feeling anxious. Was I really ready for this? I promised to try for Darius' sake above all else And if this is what it took to be at his side then I would do it any day. I would be his queen.
"Astrid wrote back to me, she's coming back and will attend the feast so we'll meet her there" a smile broke out on my lips on hearing this from Anaise. We all would be together.
"Speaking of which" Orchid started and we all turned to gaze at her, waiting to hear what suggestions she had. "Can we see the traditional gown Audrey would be wearing? Oh please.. " Orchid begged giving Ruby the baby dog eyes.
Ruby sighed, "No. You'll see her right before she descends to the ballroom. Now all of you should go get ready and get back here before the feat starts chop chop" Ruby shooed all my ladies out and they complained leaving me to giggle in amusement.
Once the door was shut behind them Faye motioned for me to follow them. We took the back stairs down to the royal bath. It was a secluded area behind the castle, a lot of trees wrapped round the open space, rose bushes and various flowers coated the grounds. Everywhere smelt so surreal and fragrant. The curtains were pulled closed hiding the secret sanctuary as I let my eyes drink in the beauty. I inhaled deeply, feeling the fresh crisp air settle all my nerves and relax my muscles as I pulled away my satin robe, letting it fall down to my feet as I stepped slowly into the water.
The warm beads soaked my skin, soothing my muscles. I continued further, submerging myself till my jaw as I let the warmth of this place engulf me in a false sense of comfort and security. Coming back up I watched as Ruby and Faye with the help of Raya and Penelope poured in some scenting oils and rose petals. I combed my fingers through my wet curls, pushing down the water from my hair I proceeded to run my hands over my body, bathing myself in the sweet scent.
After concluding I was lead out of the bath, slipping into my robe and following the maids back to my room. Immediately we set foot they began getting me ready, tugging on my attire.
I stepped into the dress as Ruby helped me pull the sleeves up. I watched myself through the mirror, my heart raced and my palms were clammy as I rubbed them together in angst. I tried to inhale deep breaths and calm myself but I couldn't. Flashes from my dream swarmed through my mind, prodding at my fears and pulling my nerves. My head throbbed and my stomach squeezed, I needed to get a grip or at least tell someone about my dream or else it would drive me crazy.
ꨄ
"Welcome the princess Audrey! All pay your respect as she descends and graces us with her presence!"
I heard a man's loud cry as I walked down the stairs, turning I took in the scene below me. The whole ballroom was filled to its capacity, nobles, dignitaries, generals and many noblemen flooded the grounds. I could see the look on all their faces as they assessed me. I gulped down hard, letting out a shaky breath. Some of the looks they gave me were not so subtle painted with disgust and resentment. I could feel the anger radiating off them but I held my head high as I continued down the steps. Many looked up at me in awe others were not so pleased. Trumpets bleared through the air cutting through the silence. The moment I stepped down they all went on one knee paying their respects.
I looked around feeling unnerved by the gesture. Surely I wasn't worth that much that they would kneel. Turning my attention to the front of the ball room my gaze met with a pair of enchanting onyx eyes, orbs that already scanned my form burning holes into my skin with each glance of his eyes along my body. I felt a shiver run down my spine as the look of desire flashed through his eyes. Stepping down from the podium he began making his way towards me. I used the time to register my surroundings, everywhere was decorated beautifully no doubt Faye's doing. I let my eyes drag down his form as he approached he looked absolutely immaculate in his red and black King's mantle. I could feel the power radiating off him in waves making goosebumps rise above my skin. He looked devilishly alluring coupled with how physically powerful his person was. He always managed to command attention, his presence demanded respect and he always seemed to look so sophisticated with his gold locks pulled up in a man's bun securely on his head. He had styled his stubble, letting it pattern his jaw making him ooze sex.
He stopped in front of me, his spicy scent slapped me right in the face almost knocking me out at the amount of testosterone he was giving off. I finally met his gaze once more to see him looking down at me, the swirl of emotions and dark intent that swam through his glistening orbs almost had my knees buckling. I could feel it, the sexual tension was thick and sticky. I genuflected, snapping out of my lust induced daydream.
"My Lord" I addressed softly, keeping my gaze at his feet I remained in that position. My gaze flickered up to his eyes that softened with admiration as he took my hand in his pulling me to my feet me placed a kiss to my knuckles, homsunf my gaze in his hypnotic ones.
"My love" he smiled softly and I returned his gesture a small grin breaking out on my lips. He turned us towards everyone retaining his hold on me he bellowed in his deep baritone ultimately causing my core to squeeze, "You may all enjoy the party. The feast will begin shortly"
With that everyone dispersed some taking their seats and others moving to dance. Darius turned to me, his gaze running along my frame before coming back up to meet my eyes, "You look so glorious baby, no one deserves to behold such beauty"
I felt warmth overtake my cheeks and I was certain I looked pink at the moment, "Thank you" I appreciated feeling so shy. Shy? Really Audrey my conscience scolded. Say something complement him! Um what do I say? You look sexy? Sugars.
"What's going on in that pretty head of yours hm?" I shook my head trying to get rid of those bantering thoughts. I just had to compliment him, it wasn't that hard just say what you're thinking.
"I think you look really handsome" I bit down on my lip, peaking up at him to see a huge grin on his lips. "I really like your beard" I smiled, running my fingers carefully across his chiseled jaw. I felt the familiar spark take over my fingers and I couldn't help but relish in the feeling I had become so used to. The look on his face and the feeling of his skin against mine was enough to make my lower abdomen clench.
"Thank you little one. I won't lie" he began, taking a step closer to me he snaked a hand around my waist settling his calloused palm on my lower back he ran a finger along my cheek slowly caressing my skin. "You look so tempting, those big eyes of yours are taunting me. I've missed those lips of yours so fucking much, I missed your sweet taste, I missed hearing your soft whimpers and feeling your soft skin against my lips" he brushed his lips painfully slow against my ear with every word.
I placed my hands against his broad chest to steady myself already feeling my knees turning to jelly as my heart hammered against my ribcage in anticipation. My breathing became labored and j was thankful for the soft music and the cahtyer that drowned me out, "i-i missed you too" I admitted breathlessly.
"I can hear your pulse racing. Seeing you in this dress is maddening baby, it's driving me crazy. Fuck I want to rip it right off you so bad" he cursed lowly in my ear making me clench my thighs at the sound of his husky gravelly tone. He pulled back enough to look into my eyes, his long finger traced the curve of my face, pushing a curls of my hair behind my ear. Faye and Raya had taken care of my hair, they styled it into a braided bun, leaving two strands of curls to frame my face. They made sure to add some hair ornaments that complemented the dress. "So fucking precious" he pressed his lips against mine, letting out a heavy breathe and I could feel my insides melt at the contact.
One hand cupped my cheek while his other wound around my waist pulling me closer in one swift motion. I tried to kiss back but he dominated my lips, sucking tugging and biting at every chance he got. He kissed me like a hungry man would devour his food, wanting to taste eelvery inch of me and if possible gave my taste permanently imbedded on his tongue. The way his lips claimed mine made me feel wanted, it made me feel like I was the most attractive woman in the world. It sent heat rushing through my body and pulling between my legs, I let out a quiet whimper all my anxiety getting drowned as I let myself get lost in the passionate tango of our lips.
He broke the kiss, pulling away but I kept my eyes closed trying to calm my erratic heart. It was like my body had been shocked to life from just one kiss awakening all my darkest desires, everything I wanted him to do to me. The want to have him against me, to have him claim me forever making me his. I could feel the absence of his hot tongue in my mouth and I couldn't help but pout as my lids fluttered open. I could register the look of concern that took over his features
"Tell me what's bothering you love" his eyes regarded me and I sucked in a deep breathe gazing away from his intense start. I could tell him about my dream but it would worry him for no reason, it's probably just a figment of my imagination and nothing more. Telling him won't do either of us any good. But what if it meant something? Those malevolent gold eyes seemed the same as the ones on the tapestry, could that be a coincidence? Maybe I was thinking about it too much and it's materialised in my dream, yes. It's nothing. "Baby, you're scaring me" his bothered tone pulled me out of my train of thoughts as I looked up to meet his eye.
I let out a sigh, "I've just been worried is all. It bothered me not knowing what happened to Lord Odin and whether his plans would succeed. I was scared you would get hurt because of me, I was so foolish" I looked down ashamed as dread seeped into my skin tugging at my heart.
"No little one" he pinched my jaw holding it firmly he brought my head up so my gaze met his. "I won't have you blaming yourself, you're here with me and that's all that matters. Let's leave the past in the past yes?" I nodded, a small smile playing on my lips. Darius took hold of my hand and lead me away to a more secluded area of the ball room. He looked around suspiciously before stepping closer to me, "Do you recall my love that letter we had you write and sign for Lord Odin? To lead him out into a trap" I nodded in response, listening more intently. "We went to the agreed upon location and found nothing there"
"What, how was that possible. Did he not receive the letter?" I asked, a crease forming between my brows. Did someone tip him off about our plans before hand?
"Upon further search we found his horse tied down to a tree with the letter inside it's pouch but there was no sign of him anywhere. Few days ago we received word that his body had been washed up from the river when he was searched rocks were found in his pockets" my eyes widened a fraction as I assessed the information.
So he killed himself, "He committed suicide" I voiced out my thoughts.
"That's what it looks like but I don't think it would be that simple. I saw his throat had been slit" Darius informed further leaving me to wonder.
"Why would he slit his own throat and still go further to drown himself? If indeed he learnt of our plans then he could have easily flee the city for his own" it didn't make any sense.
"My thoughts exactly. There is something more to this and I want to find out, I have sent Ryker to conduct an investigation discreetly, question all the people present in the pub that was nearby if they had seen anything or heard anything at all. For all we know Lord Odin may have just been a pawn in a much bigger plot"
Was it possible? That Lord Odin could have been working for someone? To kill Darius? "Do you suspect anyone?"
"I have a lot of enemies, uncountable and they may have just reached too close for my liking" he seemed to be deep in throught staring into space. Suddenly he turned to me, worry back on his face as he cups my cheek "Please be careful my love, for all we know they might be in the castle. Ryker tried to tell me that your dress poisoning and you almost drowninf could not have been mere accidents but I was too blinded by rage to consider the possibility that our enemy has reached within our walls"
"S-so what are you saying?" I asked, scared for his reply. Does it mean someone who wanted me dead was living in this castle along with us?
"That you should trust no one and don't fear my love. I'll protect you I swear it" His words held a great depth of promise in them and seeing the pure ckbcern and love he had for me made a soft smile overtake my lips. I placed a hand on his chest and his eyes followed my every move.
"I know you will. I feel so safe with you" almost immediately the atmosphere had changed and it's was like the entire world had blurred into nothingness, everyone's chatters were drowned out and it was only the two of us at the moment. My eyes drifted down to where my hand was placed against his chest and I could feel the tension under my palm, the urge to touch him. I wanted to feel his warm skin against my hand, to have his warmth envelope me and make me for her anyone else existed. I gazed up into his eyes to see a burning hunger for me glaze over his orbs, tainting them with passion. It was like I was in a daze. I watched his gaze flicker from mine to my cleavage and it sent a shiver down my spine. I could see the look of raw carnal desire in his eyes and I could tell he would tear this dress right off me.
Just then a voice came, grabbing our attention and breaking the moment. "Your Makesties, the elders"
Darius and I pulled away from each other subtly as we turned our gaze to regard the three old wolves that's stood beside us. There were all women much to my suprise but the moment their gazes landed on me I felt my heart skip a beat and immediately my spine straightened to give myself a better posture.
"My Lord" they all greeted at once.
"Our elders" Darius returned the acknowledgement, giving them a court nod whereas I was frozen to my spot.
When I snapped out of it I genuflect as well, bowing my head, "Elders. I am honored to meet you. I am-"
"We know who you are child, the king has finally found his match" one of them, with the rarest shade of emerald green eyes I had seen spoke first. "I am elder Irene"
"She's really beautiful sisters" Another spoke, her eyes were like Elder Irene's but they had a hint of an almost gold hue to them making her gaze look almost piercing.
"You're right Elfrid and she has wide hips too, perfect for child birth. She has a great body and in sure we'll have a little heir running around these halls very soon. The maids also tell me that they have been really active, the echoes say it all" Elder Irene gushed and I felt a blush blossom on my cheeks tainting my entire face red. I felt my ears burn scarlet. Sugars, I didn't think the halls would echoe.
"Stop your chattering. Come here dear let me look at you" this was the first time she had spoken. I looked up at Darius and he gave me a firm nod smiling encouragingly. I gulped down hard and walked forward as she scanned me from head to toe, "You definitely look the part dear but make no mistake being beautiful is not going to be enough to keep you in this court. It takes more than looks for a lady to survive here, there are a lot of predators lurking my dear. If you make even one mistake you bleed close to the sharks and they come for you. Watch your back, your destiy is one of thorns and if you don't learn to manoeuvre through these thorns they will tear you apart. Bless you child" I was frozen to my spot, my eyes fixated in her deep lemon green eyes. It was like I was under a spell, I could hear my heart beating and it was like everything was happening in slow motion as she gave me on least look before I stepped back to stand beside Darius.
A strong squeeze to my hip snapped me out of the zone and I peaked up to see Darius' apologetic smile as he rubbed calming circles on my hip with his thumb trying to soothe me.
"Azalia why are you trying to scare her? His Highness has found himself a beautiful mate and I approve of his choice"
"There are many troubles that come with being in court talk less of being the future queen. But I believe you will handle each of them with grace and immense strength and as long as the two of you stay together then you will conquer anything, nothing written in stone will tear you apart. Your love for each other will get you through the toughest of times and it may not always feel like it is enough but if you love your person greatly then nothing will compare to it" Elfrida smiled at the both of us. I let her words register and it left me confused and anxious to say the least.
"You two are a match made by the fates and we believe together you two will conquer anything" Irene added. "We look forward to seeing you at the gathering in the town squar-"
Irene was interrupted by Ryker as he came into view, "Pardon me elders but I need to steal the king and his princess away for a second" The Elders nodded in agreement but I could see Elder Irene didn't want to but she complied.
Ryker lead them away and it was only then that Audrey was able to let out a breath she wasn't even aware she was holding. All their words were so overwhelming she wasn't prepared for Elder Irene's words nor was she prepared for what she felt hearing them, she couldn't help but get the insight that she was hinting at something. They all were but what was that something she had no idea.
"Thank you for pulling us pit of there Ryker" I heard Darius speak and I could only nod in equal agreement. I let out a huff of air through my bloated cheeks.
"My pleasure but I'm afraid it isn't for good news" my brows furrowed in confusion, I really didn't need more of this right now. "I just got word that the Jigalians blocked our trade routes. The carts we sent to supply grain to the neighboring villages that were affected by drought have all been held hostage by them. They demand an audience with both of you at their desired location. They said they would send a carriage to bring the two of you" he finished looking between Darius and I.
"That was extreme" I looked up at Darius to see the same confused look on his face, "So they withheld aid needed by so many viallages just to get our attention?"
"Seems like it" Darius sighed, running a hand down his face. "Arrange for a large percentage of guard to accompany us" Ryker gave a curt nod before walking away. Darius turned to face me taking my hands in his, "Are you okay? I know back there the elders were a bit intense. Don't let them get to you"
I let out a heavy sigh, resting my hands against his chest and leaning against him. I dropped my cheek flat against his torso loving the way his scent engulfed me like a warm fuzzy blanket with strong arms. "I won't lie I'm a little scared and very anxious about this whole queen thing and I don't know what I'm going to do but as long as you're beside me I'm sure I'll figure it out" Strong arms wrapped around my narrow waist as he snuggled his head into the crook of my neck, the feeling of his nose tickling me as he dropped a lingering kiss to my throat.
I let out a soft giggle, pulling away with a grin on my flushed face. He pressed his lips to my forehead keeping his palms on my cheeks. I sighed softly, melting against him.
"Pardon me your grace" Anaise's voice reached my ears and I turned my gaze to regard her. Darius dropped his hands from my face deciding it would be better placed around my waist on my ass. I blushed like a beetroot glancing at him and from the corner of my eye I could see the sly wink he threw my way with a wolfish grin.
"Lady Anaise" Darius acknowledged, his features straight not at all revealing any of jai current actions. Anaise proceeded to genuflect paying her respects to her king, the king that was currently caressing my ass like we were alone.
I tried to hide my squirming as Anaise got back up, "I need to burrow the princess for a second if you don't mind"
I peaked up at Darius to see a small innocent smile break out on his lips a stark contrast to his current actions. I could tell he was about to do something so I spoke up, "Go on Anaise I'll be right behind you" she nodded and took a bow before walking off in slow strides before she was even able to get far Darius turned to me swiftly, placing his lips to my ear his palm squeezed a generous amount of me and I let out a low whimper.
"Don't keep me waiting little one. I've held my self back and it seems you get a kick out of tempting me every single time I lay eyes on you. I'll be coming for you tonight my love and I can't wait to taste you again. You're a good girl, yes?" I could feel the shift in him to a more dominant one and it sent shivers down my spine not only from the strangling atmosphere but from the way his voice had dropped a couple octaves and seemed to send pleasured sensations through me. He placed a kiss to my soft spot and I visibly shuddered, a low moan escaping my lips one that was only loud enough for his ears only. He pulled away, his eyes darkening with lust as he gazed down at me like he wanted to devour me right here. Turning around I scurried off after Anaise version I looked like a cherry tomato at the moment and my core was definitely clenching.
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••Book name: The Possessive Alpha King and his Fated Queen••
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