**Lucien's POV**
As I made my way towards the palace, I couldn't help but feel a sense of trepidation. The plan that Zora and I had concocted was risky, but I knew that it was worth it if I could win over Elora's heart. I had always harbored feelings for her, and tonight might just be my chance to finally make her see me in a different light… on her bed of course.
When I arrived at the palace gates, the guards eyed me suspiciously. It was clear that they didn't trust me, and I couldn't blame them. I had never been particularly close to the royal family, and my sudden appearance was sure to raise some questions. But I kept my cool and managed to convince them that I had important business to discuss with Elora.
When I finally made my way to the grand hall, Elora was in the middle of a meeting with her advisors. She looked up as I entered, and her expression hardened when she saw me.
“Lucien,” she said coolly. “What brings you here?”
“I was hoping to speak with you in private,” I replied, trying to keep my voice steady despite the sudden hostility in the room.
Elora raised an eyebrow, clearly skeptical. “And what could you possibly have to say to me that couldn't be said in front of my advisors?”
I took a deep breath, trying to think on my feet. “It's a personal matter, Your Highness. Something that I think it would be best to discuss in private.”
To my surprise, Elora relented. “Very well. Follow me to my chambers.”
As we walked, I couldn't help but feel a sense of unease. Elora was clearly not happy to see me, and I knew that I had to tread carefully if I wanted to win her over. When we finally reached her chambers, she gestured for me to take a seat while she poured us each a glass of wine.
We chatted awkwardly for a few minutes, and I could tell that Elora was still on guard. But I couldn't let that deter me. I took a deep breath and decided to make my move… again. Maybe if I start all over again… Just perhaps if I confessed to her all over again, she would give me a chance, and we would finally make out without it being forced.
“Elora,” I began, setting my glass of wine down on the table in front of me. “I know that this might be unexpected, but I need to tell you something. I've had feelings for you for a long time, and I can't keep them to myself any longer. I care for you deeply, and I would do anything to make you happy.”
Elora's expression hardened, but only slightly. “Lucien, I appreciate your honesty. But I'm not certain that I feel the same way. We've always been friends, and I don't want to ruin that.” She said, trying to play along.
I felt a pang of disappointment in my chest, but I refused to give up. “I understand, Your Highness. But please, just consider it. I would do anything to make you happy.”
She was about to talk when a knock sounded on the door, interrupting our conversation.
“Come in,” She answered.
The door opened, and the maid walked in with a tray of food in her hands. I could see how her eyes lingered on me. She must be the maid Zora was talking about.
As she dropped the food, she bowed to Elora. “Here's your food, Luna. Are you sure you do not want to eat it in the dining room?” She asked and I frowned at her.
“No, it's alright. I'll eat it here and call you to take the plates when I'm done.” She answered.
“Okay.” The maid bowed, took one last look at me and walked out.
Elora opened the food and took a spoon. “Would you like to join me?” She asked, but I shook my head.
“No, I'm okay. I prefer watching you eat instead.” I answered with a smile.
She only snickered. I waited earnestly for her to start eating and so as for her not to notice my stare, I decided to engage her in a bit of conversation.
“I'm not comfortable with you watching me like this. Won't you leave, since you do not want to eat?” Her question was so straightforward and plain, and I couldn't help but sigh.
“No, you've already rejected my love. The last wish you could grant for me is allowing me to watch you eat,” I requested.
She shrugged and started eating. A smile came to my lips and I couldn't wait for the drug to start taking effect.
“So, can you tell me why you choose to take over as Luna after many years of leaving the throne to Beta Dexter?” I asked.
She turned to look at me and sipped a glass of water. “I don't think I want to share such information with you.” She answered.
“Come on, it's just a harmless question. I'm just curious as to how the Elora we all know changed overnight.” I said with a smile.
“So, if I'm to ask, the old version of me and this new one, which is preferable to you?” She asked, looking at me expectantly.
I thought about it carefully. I didn't want to give an answer that would end up making her angry at me, so I was going to choose my words carefully and win her approval.
“I like this new one better, Elora.”
“It's Luna to you.” She glared at me.
“I'm sorry, Luna.” I answered.
I saw her facial expression change a little, and she dropped the fork she was using. My smile broadened when I realized the drug had started taking an effect on her. She used her hand to fan herself.
“Please, turn on the fan,” Her voice was a bit hoarse. I acted as if I didn't hear her and moved close to her.
“Are you okay?” I asked, running my thumb over her soft lips.
She yanked my hands away and stood up. “Get out, Lucien.” She ordered, but I didn't budge.
When I didn't move, she walked to the door and was about to leave, but I pulled her back and pinned her to the wall.
I saw her bite her lip, and I knew she was trying to fight it.
“Fuck!” She exclaimed and fanned herself. Her forehead was beaded with witty sweats and her body felt hot.
“Elora…" I called, but her gaze was on my lips.
“Take me! I can't bear this anymore,” She started undressing.
“What are you doing?” I asked, feigning ignorance.
“Fuck me, please!" She requested.
I moved away from her a bit, but she pulled me to herself and slammed her lips on mine. She kissed me hungrily, and I smiled into the kiss before wrapping my hands around her waist and deepening it.
This was going to be a long night.