Royal Affairs (O/O Closed)

She studies Kaillas for a moment, having never seen dressed in such simple attire before. She can't help but admire the way he exudes a natural, understated charm. A light blush spreads across her cheeks when she notices his eyes sweeping over her attire. She feels vulnerable and self-conscious under his gaze. But the way he looks at her, with awe, makes her feel beautiful and desired.

She hadn't been sure if she was supposed to change or not but she figured it would be best to go ahead and prepare for bed. After he has left for the evening she will sleep and being in her nightgown already will allow her to do that with convenience.

"Of course, please come in," she replies, appreciating that he's asking for permission first. As Kaillas steps inside, she closes the door behind him, the sound echoing in the hushed space. Soft candlelight casts warm, flickering shadows across the space, illuminating the intricate details of the furnishings. Delicate silks and lace adorn the bed and windows. Nearly all of it is from her home. She brought many things with her and has begun to put it all up to make the space her own.

"Make yourself comfortable." She gestures to a cozy sitting area adorned with plush cushions and a small table. It feels strange to have him in her room. While they were completely alone in the maze earlier, this feels different. She isn't entirely sure why. There is no chance they get caught. Most people have retired to their own chambers for the night and those who havent are still dancing and drinking the night away.

She steps over to the couch and sits down, looking over to him. She feels oddly calm right now. Being around him has allowed her to come down from her frazzled state after her conversation with Ambrose.

(Not a problem! Hopefully it'll settle down for ya)

Kaillas stepped into the room as the door widened enough for him to slip through. He paused for a moment, looking at the room. He noticed so many things had changed from last night when they had once spoken. The decorations were different but not knew. He coukd tell they had been used and well loved. She brought these from home, he thought to himself. He was happy she was settling in and making the space her own.

The soft flicker of the candle light only seemed to add to the ambience. It was cozy, inviting. It had a feminine feel to it without being off putting with frills and colors. It felt like Ophelia.

He stepped towards the couch and took a seat next to her. He allowed a little bit of distance between the two of them, letting her decide how close they sat. He wouldn't object if she wanted to sit closer to him. In fact he woukd prefer it. He was fantasizing about grabbing her thighs and dragging her onto his lap- No, he couldn't think that way. Not now. Not yet. She had only just received her first kiss. He wasn't going to do anything else to her. Nothing short of innocent touches and stolen kisses.

He kept his hands firmly in his lap. Reason one, so he didn't reach out and try to touch her. And reason two was to hide a certain appendage that was making its presence known.

"I feel like I know nothing about you," he finally spoke, "I was hoping we coukd take this tike to get to know each other a little better. Let's start with the basics." He also wanted to kiss her some more but he coukd at least act like he jad pure intentions at first.

The decorations and the furniture arrangement will change often. Whenever she finds herself unable to sleep, she rearranges and redecorates. It’s something she’s done for as long as she can remember. As a small child she used to get so frustrated when she was physically unable to move everything around. Now she still struggles with a few of the heavier pieces but it’s manageable.

Like with most of her wardrobe, everything is soft shades of colors. She loves to add color to everything but she doesn’t like when it’s too aggressive or too loud. It’s taken her awhile to perfect the perfect balance.

She looks at Kaillas, glad that they’re able to do this. She adjusts herself on the couch, closing the distance between them ever so slightly. She tells herself that it’s her indicating her willingness to engage in the conversation however, it’s most because she just wants to be closer to him.

Briefly shifting her gaze to where his hands are nearly placed on his lap, she can’t help but compare that to the actions of a naughty school boy being scolded. It’s amusing and she can’t help but wonder what the reason for it is.

"I'd like that," She replies with a soft smile. "What would you like to know?" She’ll tell him anything.

Kaillas tried to hide his smile as she shifted closer to him. He had to lock his fingers together so he didn't reach out and touch her. Baby steps. Especially when they were both so under dressed. He worried that he might losse his self control and he wasn't going to put himself in a position where he was pawing at her.

It wasn't as if he had gone a long time without a woman. The last time he had taken one to bed had been just less than a week since her arrival. He wanted to do right by her. Ever since he had learned of her arrival he had decided on abstinence. She was to be his wife. He wasn't going to disrespect her by bedding another woman, before they were married and after. Ohphelia woukd be his last woman, if she ever invited him into her bed which he would gladly do so.

It was just something about her that had him physically reacting to her as well as emotionally. She was a beautiful woman, he wouldn't deny that. But it wasn't just her body that had him going, it was her sweet mind and wonderful words. It was everything about her. And he had made the terrible decision to put himself in such a position. Or perhaps a most wonderful one. But he woukd have something to take care of later this night after they parted for bed.

"Tell me everything." His voice had deepened some here in the candle light. "I want to know your likes, yoru dislikes. When's your birthday? How do you like to celebrate it?"

If she had any idea what some of the things he’s thinking about are, half of her would simply die from the embarrassment and the other half would be tempted to go with it.

Taking a moment to consider his questions, Ophelia leans back against the couch, a thoughtful expression on her face. She‘a already told him a few things so she wants to make sure she doesn’t repeat them unnecessarily.

"Well, my likes…" she begins, taking this seriously. "I love literature, especially poetry. There's something enchanting about the way words can weave emotions and transport us to different worlds. I also enjoy painting and expressing myself through art. It's a way for me to capture fleeting moments and emotions."

"When it comes to dislikes, I suppose I'm not particularly fond of heights. Balconies are fine for the most part but anything heigher and my legs stop working. I found that out because I climbed on the roof when I was ten. Nearly fell off.” She pauses for a moment as a sour look briefly flickers across her face. “Might have been less painful to fall off. I was black and blue for awhile after my parents found out.” She had just wanted to get a better look at the stars.

As for her birthday, Ophelia's smile returns. "It's actually coming up soon. In about a month. I don’t really celebrate much, though. Usually one of the chefs makes me a cupcake and I go out on a little picnic to eat it.”

She prattles on for a moment longer before turning her attention properly to Kaillas. "What about you? What are your likes and dislikes? How do you celebrate your birthday?”

Kaillas was sitting entirely too rigid and he was getting worried that she would notice. He had a feeling any of their meetings not in a public setting would be like this. At least untim she was ready to progress their relationship. Which meant he saw a lot of cold baths in his future. That was never fun.

He did relax some as he listened to her speak. She had a soothing voice and it helped ease some of his tension. And it distracted him for his problem at hand. He smiled at her likes and cringed at her story of the roof. While Heights never bothered him he understood how an experience like that woukd definitely create a negative sense towards heights.

He made sure to remember her birthday. The palace would throw a celebration, there was no escaping that. But he would something smaller, more intimate fir Ophelia. Something with just the family and friends. He would give her something to look forward to for each birthday.

Now, Kaillas should have been expecting for her to turn around and ask the same questions of him and yet he was completely off guard. He wasn't very good about taking about himself. It made him uncomfortable.

He shifted slightly on the couch, stretching his fingers before clasping then again "I like training," he finally said. "I like my sisters. I like going out for a drink." He wasn't sure what else he like. His days were filled with paperwork and meetings. There wasn't much time in between that to enjoy himself. "I suppose I enjoy astronomy but I don't really understand a lot of it. I just like looking at the stars."

"I dislike paperwork." That was a given. "And speeches." He hated public speaking perhaps even more than he did paperwork. And he loathed paperwork.

"I don't like celebrating my birthday but the palace always throws a celebration every year. There's no stopping it." He had always been indifferent to it. Another year another age. It didn't matter to him. And yet he still wanted to do something for Ophelia.

Ophelia listens attentively as Kaillas speaks about himself, her eyes fixated on him. She notices his slight discomfort, and a gentle smile plays on her lips, offering reassurance. She can tell that opening up about himself isn’t easy for him, but she appreciates his effort.

For the most part, she remains quiet as he talks, not wanting to interrupt. Occasionally she does make a comment, hoping to encourage him to keep going. The mention of his training has shirtless images of him floating through her head. She tries her best to focus on anything else. She runs her hand up and down her thigh as she clears her head of those improper thoughts.

As Kaillas mentioned his interest in astronomy, she nods her head. She remembers how content he seemed in the astrology tower earlier so this doesn’t surprise her. It’s also something that they have in common so she’s pleased about that. She just tends to take a less than safe approach to it apparently.

“If I’m allowed, I wouldn’t mind doing some of your public speaking for you.” It genuinely doesn’t bother her to talk to a crowd and if she can offer some relief to Kaillas, she’s more than happy to do it. As king, he has so many responsibilities. It must be tiring.

Regarding his birthday, Ophelia's expression softened. "Perhaps we can steal you away on your birthday and do a small celebration, away from the madness of the palace.” It could just be his sisters, herself, him, and whoever else he would like. Though she’s not sure how she could pull that off, she’s got some time to plan.

She reaches out and gently places her hand on Kaillas's, offering him a reassuring touch. "Thank you for sharing these things with me, Kaillas. I really am glad that we have this chance to talk."

Kaillas offered her a small smile. "You can speak for me anytime." He wasn't good at speeches. He didn't know how to write them and appeal to the people.. and standing up there with all those eyes on him was nerve-wracking. he would rather be the force behind the screen or on the battlefield. He could leave the pretty words for someone else to say. He would gladly let Ophelia speak for him. She had done well so far so he couldn't imagine her saying anything wrong.

He had over six months before his birthday. There was time to work out the details should she wish to follow through. He didn't care much for the celebration but he still wished to celebrate for Ophelia's. For that, he didn't have much time. He would speak with Catalina and his sisters to plan something. Specifically Elora. She was closer in age to Ophelia and she might know a few things his bride would like. "Anything to escape the palace." He truly hated the palace and being king. He was never supposed to wear the crown. He was never supposed to have these responsibilities.

Kaillas turned his hand over to interlace his fingers with hers. He gave her hand a soft squeeze. "I am too. Though I'm next door if you ever need anything. All you gotta do is ask." He would let in her anytime she wanted to.

"What do you like to do in your free time? Besides horse riding." He was contemplating between continuing this conversation or finally kissing her. But he felt like too much of a harlot if he asked what she liked then started to kiss her. A gentleman would listen to her speak and ask her questions before doing such a thing. And he did want to get to know her. He didn't want her just for her kisses and body.

Ophelia feels a warmth spread through her as Kaillas interlaces his fingers with hers, his soft squeeze bringing a gentle smile to her lips. She appreciates that he’s here for her. It is convenient that there’s only a door seperating them. The knowledge that she has someone she can rely on, someone who genuinely cares for her well-being, means a lot to her.

"As for my free time," She begins after a moment of thought, "I enjoy reading, especially works of fiction." It’s gotten her in trouble more than once. A few of her suitors didn’t take kindly to her interests. One in particular was very….aggressive about it. It’s never stopped her though.

“I also find pleasure in music and playing instruments.” Her childhood was full of learning things that a proper lady should know. That includes a lot of dance, music, and art lessons. She never minded. Thy lessons were always fun and she still finds joy in doing those things now.

She pauses, a small smile tugging at the corners of her lips. "I'm open to trying new things too. I'm always up for an adventure or discovering new hobbies. Is there something you enjoy doing that you'd like to share with me?" She would love to spend time with him, doing something he likes.

Kaillas slowly felt his body relaxing. He shifted on the couch, turning his body towards her so she had his full attention. His thumb stroked the skin in the back of her hand. He nodded his head, engaging with her as she spoke about her passions.

Their library, while left rather unattended, was stocked with all the latest editions. It needed someone to love it and Ophelua might be that person. It woukd be nice to see the place ge took his lesson as a young child flourish again.

As for the instruments, "What do you like to play? We can go looking at instruments for you to purchase." If it was not already made clear, money didn't phase him. He was a very wealthy man. His kingdom was well off and so was he. Making big purchases didn't phase him. Especially if it meant his family was happy.

"There several things I woukd like to show you but they are not appropriate for an unmarried woman." He said it partly just to get a reaction out of her and partly because it was true. He liked seeing the blush rising on her cheeks. Even just him mentioning that morning when he had been partially undressed for training had her cheeks warming. He loved it.

"I find I don't have a lot of free time. Being king takes up too much if my time. I train when I'm not working or…I'm trying to sleep." There wasn't much else to it."

With a sigh she can feel her body relax under his touch. She enjoys having his full attention and the way his thumb strokes the back of her hand. Such small gestures mean a lot to her.

She looks forward to trying to restore the library sometime in the near future. Though right now it looks sad and worn down, she’s certain that she can return it to it’s original glory. It’ll be a big project but she’s excited about the challenge.

As Kaillas asks about her musical abilities, she smiles fondly. "I can play the violin, the piano, the cello, and the harp.” She started lessons at a very young age so she’s had many years to try out different instruments and figure out which ones she likes the best.

The teasing comment about things not appropriate for an unmarried woman, Ophelia's entire face turns a brilliant shade of red. No details were given but she’s still incredibly flustered. She opens her mouth to speak but instantly shuts it again, not trusting herself to attempt saying anything. By the end of the week, she’ll hopefully know what he’s talking about.

When he mentions his lack of free time due to his responsibilities as king, she nods, relieved for the change of subject before she simply dies from embarrassment. sympathetically. "I hope that my being here to take over some of those tasks will allow you some free time.”

Kaillas nodded his head thoughtfully. That was a lot of instruments. He knew there was a piano somewhere in the palace. He could get it brought to their private residents for her to play on. As for the others, he woukd reach out and find some to be brought to her so she could chose the ones she liked best.

He smiled brightly as he saw her blush. Her mouth was agape and he could have laughed. He didn't. He didn't want to embarrass her further than he already had. His smile was wide, showing his teeth, something he didn't think he had done since she arrived. He didn't smile much and certainly not that bright. At least not in the presence of anyone but his sisters and his very small cache of friends.

He shook his head. "No, I do not wish to burden you with my responsibilities. Ill let you get settled into your new role as queen and your responsibilities before trying to give you mine." He would not let her take any of the burden. It was for him and him alone to shoulder.

"How well do you know my country's laws and cultures?" If she knew next to nothing, he would set up a couple of lessons so she could better learn.

The bright smile on his face catches her off guard. She doesn’t think she’s ever seen him smile like this before. It’s so….attractive honestly. She does her best not to stare but she admittedly fails. Usually she is pretty good about hiding what she’s thinking but right now it couldn’t possibly be more obvious.

As for his question about her knowledge of his country's laws and cultures, Ophelia's expression turned slightly sheepish. "To be honest, I don't know them well at all," she admits. "I have studied some general knowledge about your country, but I would definitely benefit from more in-depth lessons. I want to be able to understand and respect the customs and traditions of your people."

She hadn’t been given very much information when she was first informed of their betrothal but she studied what she could. The idea of arriving completely unprepared was not something she enjoyed. Both Kaillas and the entire kingdom deserve a queen who understands how everything works.

Kaillas' scar was concealed here in the dark. The dull, flickering light only cast shadows on his scar. It was in these few rare moments when it wasn't noticeable that he felt somewhat normal. Should it had faded over the years. It had been almost seven years since he had recieved it. It was a pale, tight line on his face. But even as it had faded and shrunk he was always insecure about it.

He placed their clasped hands in his lap, his spare hand touching her wrist. He wasn't an affevtionate person, at least not in public. But he was a physical person. He believed acts shows someone true intentions and he always showed his people his intentions through his acts and laws. And this was showing through his touch for her. He was showing his affections for her by touch. It was so much easier than trying to just say the words.

He nodded his head once. "I'll set you up with one of my sisters tutors when we return from our honeymoon. And I'll supply you with a few books to read while we are on it." They wouldn't be doing much else on their honeymoon other than just enjoying each other company. Better to give her something to occupy herself.

He subtly shifted a little bit closer to her, pulling her further into him. "May I kiss you again?" He murmured, dropping his head down low.

Ophelia's heart flutters as Kaillas pulled her closer, his touch sending shivers down her spine. She can tell that he's not an overly affectionate person, especially in a public setting. She, on the other hand, is a very affectionate person. Hugs, cuddles, and just really anything. She's pretty touch starved from a pretty neglected childhood so she craves just being held.

She smiles softly at his offer regarding the tutors and books. "Thank you, Kaillas. I would really appreciate that. Learning from your sisters' tutors would be a wonderful opportunity, and I'll gladly delve into the books you provide." Having a tutor will help her learn everything so much quicker. She's already looking forward to starting these lessons, though she knows that she'll have to wait.

Granted, she isn't sure how long their honeymoon is supposed to be, but she knows that it'll be at least a week or two. She may be eager to get started but she knows that she can wait a little while for everything to begin. Besides, it'll be nice to relax and just bask in Kaillas' presence for awhile.

As Kaillas leans in, asking for permission to kiss her again, her eyes brighten. "Yes please," She whispers, peering up at him.

Kaillas would talk to Catalina to set up and pull some books for her. It wasn't overly complicated but it was just tedious. Learning the culture might take a little more time. While they relatively had the same holidays as most surrounding kingdoms, they had their own spin on them, much like the other ones. The atmosphere at court was likely different t than the one she was used to as well. The court was…over bearing. And skeptical and scheming. He wished he could purge the entirety of the court but it was the wives more than the men that caused trouble. And he couldn't very well vanish all the wives. Well, he could, but that wouldn't bode well.

He was looking forward to there honeymoon. It was going to be a break from court life. A full week where he did nothing but train and enjoy himself. And his wife. Ambrose would lead in his stead. He had full faith in his ruling capabilities. As long as he didn't come home to a mountain of paperwork all would be well.

He freed one of his hands to cup her cheek before leaning in to kiss her. As he did earlier, he started the kiss soft and sweet. Nothing less than a gentleman should do. His hands didn't wander and he didn't press the kiss. Soft and sweet, just like she was.

The idea of immersing herself in Kaillas' kingdom's culture is exciting but daunting. She knows that adapting to a new court and its traditions would require time and effort, but she is determined to learn and understand. She trusts that he will pick the best people to guide her through the process, and she is grateful for his willingness to assist her in setting up tutors and providing books.

The anticipation of their upcoming honeymoon brings a smile to her lips. The idea of spending a full week with Kaillas, away from the demands of court life, is incredibly enticing. They'll be incredibly the rest of this week and she's not sure how much time they'll actually be able to send together, apart from stolen moments such as this one.

As Kaillas frees one of his hands to cup her cheek, she melts into his touch, loving how soft and sweet he is with her. His touch was tender and affectionate, and she leans into it, savoring the connection they share. Their lips meet in a soft embrace and she moves closer to him, resting her hands lightly on his chest.

Kaillas placed his other her hand on her waist. It was a soft touch, at first. It rested just above her hip. But as the kiss continued on he dug his fingers into her flesh. It wasn't enough to bruise or even hurt her. It was just a firm grip on her waist.

His hand on her cheek slid back to cup the back of her head. His fingers slid into her hair, gripping the strands. He gently moved her head slightly to get a better angle for his kisses. She was new to this and he would gently guide her. He hoped one day soon she would feel brave enough to lean up and kiss him.

He broke away just for a moment to catch his breath before he was surging forward. He felt her hands on his chest and he couldn't help but lean forward into the touch. He was itching to pull her into his lap, to pull her as close to him as possible with their clothes restricting them.

He felt his heart flutter and he couldn't quite figure put what he was feeling. He knew it wasn't love. It couldn't be. They had only just met and he didn't believe in love at first sight. Love would come later when they had time to get to know one another.

As Kaillas's touch on her waist became firmer, his fingers gripping her gently, she tenses ever so slightly before relaxing once again. The contrast of his tender kisses with the increasing intensity of his hold sends a wave of both excitement and apprehension through her. She follows his lead, allowing him to guide her head to find the perfect angle for their kisses. His touch in her hair makes her pulse quicken, and she can't help but respond to his passion.

As they briefly break apart to catch their breath, her hands remains on his chest, feeling the rapid rise and fall of his breathing. The desire to be closer to him tugs at her. She is new to all of this and is starting to learn to both trust her instincts and to allow him to show her how to do everything. She trusts him, truly she does.

They have not known each other long and yet she finds herself drawn to him. The reasons why, she cannot even begin to guess. Her feelings are a tangle of confusion and she can't even begin to try to sort them out. Never once has she felt this way before.

With a hint of newfound boldness, she moves forward to meet him halfway, kissing him fervently. Lost in the moment, her hands slide up his chest to curl around his shoulders, pulling herself closer to him.

Kaillas couldn't help but smile as she met him halfway to kiss. She was getting bolder and he liked that. He wanted her to be comfortable with herself and being physical. With Kaillas of course. If she tried this with anyone else he might very well cut off their head.

The instinct to hoist her onto his lap was growing stronger and he had to fight to suppress it. He had to remember her innocence. She wasn't like the women he had bedded before that had experience and knew what they were doing. She knew nothing. And it surprised him how much that pleased him. That he would be the one to teach her everything.

He didn't want to pull away. He was reluctant to do so. He wanted to stay entangled with her all night ling. But he knew if they continued kissing that it might lead for more and neither of then ready for that.

He finally pulled away from her, regretting it the moment his lips felt the warm air. His eyes fluttered open. "I do not wish to keep you up to late." It was a way to subtly leave the decision up to her. She could invite him to stay or she coukd say she wanted to retire.

Though their relationship is still new, she's quite smitten with her soon to be husband. Never before now has she shown much interest in anyone. Her affections for him are already too strong for her to so much as consider looking at someone else with interest.

As Kaillas pulls away, her lips tingle with the remnants of their passionate kiss. The reluctance in his actions mirrored her own desires. She had gotten so caught up in everything that she hadn't realized just how intense their actions had become. This is a dangerous game that they're playing. Only a few days before they marry and they are pushing the boundaries of what is considered acceptable.

Looking up at him, she's breathless. The disappointment she feels at his words is surprising. She knows, of course, that they can't stay like this all night. At some point, they must leave each other or they will end up doing something they they shouldn't.

It takes her a moment to realize that he's putting the decision in her hands. She nibbles lightly on her lower lip as she thinks. "I…..I suppose we should get some rest." The reluctance in her tone isn't subtle. She wants him to stay, her gaze on him longing, but she doesn't want to push their luck.

Kaillas still hand his hands on her waist and in her hair. His thumb massaged the base of his scalp. He gazed down at her with a soft and somewhat heated look. He would love nothing more than to sit here and kiss the night away but he knew better. Even though they were to be married in less than a week it was somehow improper for them to be caught in such compromising position.

He nudged his nose against hers, trying to lighten the disappointment that was evenident on her face. He was reluctant to go as well. He could hear her share the same sentiments as he.

"We should," he agreed, "But it wouldn't hurt if we spent a few more minutes together." It was a dangerous game he was playing. A few minutes could easily lead into an hour. But he like to believe he had self control. He could stop anything before it went to far.

"Just lay with me," he said. "We don't have to do anything more." He wouldn't say no to more kissing if she was so inclined but he was content to hold her to him as they relaxed.

Humming softly as Kaillas's thumb massages the base of her scalp, she finds herself captivated by the warmth and intensity of his gaze. For a brief moment, she closes her eyes and enjoys the feeling.

Her disappointment eases as he nuzzles his nose against hers, his gesture filled with affection and understanding. It brings a small smile to her face. The desire to prolong their time together is evident in both of them.

His proposition for a few more minutes together, to simply lay with each other, resonates with her. It is a perfect compromise between their desires and the need to exercise restraint. It may seem silly since their wedding is merely a few days away but the scandal it would cause…..she doesn't even want to think about that. Right now she focuses on the fact that she trusts Kaillas's self-control and her own.

The idea of lying with him, feeling his comforting embrace, holds its own allure. It's a moment of intimacy without crossing the line of impropriety. For that reasoning, it only takes her only a second to agree. "I would like that," She replies softly, glad that their night doesn't have to end quite yet.

Kaillas knew very well he was immune to any scandle unless it was far too obscene. But that didn't mean his bride was. Even though they were meant to be married shortly, anything not seen as respectable for a lady would cause an uproar at court. And oh, did the court talk. At least here in Vaeril.

Kaillas was well educated in the culture of her home country. He didn't know if her court was similar to his or if it was something completely different. But he wasn't going to risk souring her reputation.

He smiled as she agreed and he slid his arms around her waist. He pulled her to him so she was laying her head on his shoulder. He took a deep breath, relaxing into the cushions. He could stay there all night if he was able to. But that wasn't possible. Still, he could enjoy himself for a few minutes.

Ophelia feels the warmth of Kaillas' embrace and the comforting rhythm of his breathing against her cheek as she rests her head on his shoulder. It’s funny how something as innocent as this could be turned into some huge scandal, even though they are mere days away from marrying. Luckily, they are safe in her chambers. No one will enter, especially so late in the evening. The delicate nature of court gossip and the potential consequences it could bring means that they must be careful.

Nestling into his embrace, she closes her eyes, letting the weight of her worries momentarily fade away. The comfort of his touch and the softness of the couchcushions envelope her senses, creating a sanctuary within the bustling palace walls. The courtly chatter and the constraints of their positions seem distant and insignificant in this intimate moment.

As the minutes slip by, she finds herself more and more relaxed. In his arms, she feels safe, cherished, and understood. Their impending marriage is something that brings her both excitement and trepidation. There is a lot of pressure surrounding their union.

Kaillas didn't think he had ever been this content in his life. Nor had ever been this affectionate. The last time he was likely truly happy was before his father had sent him away. While he had found his brithers and his family in the army, it had been a hard life and he found very little comfort there. As for showing affections, the only times he ever had prolonged hugs was when his sisters woke up fron their nightmares. He held them while they cried, let them scream and beat his chest. And then the next day they would pretend nothing had ever happened.

In all his twenty-three years, he had never been serious with a woman. While in the army, half if that time he had been to young and the other half he was enjoying his youth. He had fun, he didn't want to settle. And over the next seven years, he had battled finding his place at court and learning how to be king and a brother. He didn't have time for anything more than a fling. Nothing serious, no strings. And no woman had ever been in it for him. Just his money and title.

He had never intended to find love. His life was a hard one and he didn't want to drag someone into this life with him. He always knew he marriage would be a political one. Some woman of a good house and resources and of her child bearing years. He never intended to have affections for her. He never envisioned anything romantic for himself.

But he was hopeful he might have this chance with Ophelia. He only hoped that it wasn't crushed.

She finds that she’s growing to care for Kaillas in a way she hadn't thought possible. His kindness, his unwavering support, and the way he made her feel seen and heard had touches her soul. She wants to be the one to offer him the affection he hasnt been given in so many years, other than by his sisters.

Though she has had many suitors before, she has never cared for them. Even those who went out of their way to make it seem like they’re good people, she loathed. The façades were always easy to see through. One small snarky remark on her part and their masks shattered. She made a game of it.

Things are different with Kaillas. She admits that she was wary of him during their first meeting but in the time since then, she’s learned that he’s genuine and that means everything to her. She knows that their relationship is a delicate balance between duty and personal desires. It will be a struggle to get things just right. But she believes that it’s possible.

She hopes that with every passing day, their connection will grow stronger and that Kaillas will eventually realize that love was not a burden but a source of strength. She wants to be his confidante, his partner, and the person who will stand by his side through thick and thin.

Slowly, she begins to drift off to sleep in his arms, tucked up against him.

Kaillas placed his head on top of Ophelia's head, his fingers running across her arm. He was staring at the wall, lost in thought. He was thinking about the future, his new future with Ophelia. When he finally came back into reality, he noticed that her breathing had evened out.

He had slept around enough people in his life during the army that he knew the tell of someone falling asleep. And Ophelia was out like a light. He smiled as he looked down at her. It warmed his heart that she felt safe enough to fall asleep on him.

He waited until he was sure she was in a deep sleep before moving. He didn't want to risk waking Ophelia. He gently picked her up in his arms, positioning her head so it lay on his shoulder. Carefully, he managed to pull back the covers without jostling her too much and he placed her into bed. He pulled the covers over her, tucking her into bed. He placed a gentle kiss on her forehead before quietly leaving the room.

Kaillas got into bed he fell asleep the fastest he had done in a long time.

Despite being moved around, she remains sound asleep. The only time she starts to stir is when she’s placed on the bed. Being tucked in settles her right back down. It’s been a long few days so she’s exhausted.

As the night stretches on, and Ophelia's sleep remains undisturbed. She is surrounded by warmth and comfort, wrapped in the embrace of the soft sheets and the tranquility of the room. Her dreams remain peaceful and uneventful, ensuring that she gets an adequate amount of sleep tonight.

The hours slip by, and the morning light gradually fills the room, casting a gentle glow upon her sleeping form. Still lost in her dreams, she breathes steadily, her body at ease, and her mind immersed in a realm only she can explore. She’ll likely remain asleep until she must get up to start her day.