His face pales, his grip on my shoulder tightening. "Esmeray, do you realize what this means? If your husband finds out, it could ruin everything," he says, his voice trembling slightly."
"I know...father I have been meaning to tell you, but every time you disregarded me, you found ways to not speak to me. Making me assume you knew of something but didn't want to accept it due to this contract. Am i wrong?"
King Lionel releases a heavy sigh, his shoulders slumping. "Esmeray... I'm sorry," he says, his voice filled with regret. "I didn't want to believe it because I knew how much was at stake."
"I know. Just don't expect me to produce an heir, not with him. The moment I am disrespect I will end the contract and marry the commander. "
His eyes widen at my threat, a hint of fear flashing in them. "Esmeray, you can't be serious," he says, his voice trembling slightly. "The consequences of breaking this contract could be catastrophic for both kingdoms. Think about the lives that would be affected!"
I know he is right, this isn't a game, things can happen good or bad "...I won't do anything, for the sake of people"
He nods, relief washing over his face. "Thank you, Esmeray. I know this isn't easy for you," he says, placing a gentle hand on my cheek. "Just... be careful, alright?"
We walk back inside. As we reenter the grand hall, the atmosphere is lively and filled with laughter. Xerxes catches my eye from across the room, a small smirk playing on his lips as he raises his glass in a silent toast.I return the gesture with a polite nod, my heart heavy with the weight of our conversations.
The night wears on, and as the guests begin to retire, I find myself alone with the Prince once again.The Queen tells us to retire for the night and so we do. We give one last bow to the remaining guests and head to our shared chambers.
Xerxes follows me into our chambers, closing the door behind us with a soft click. The room is dimly lit by the flickering light of candles, casting long shadows across the walls.I can't believe my whole life is changing before my eyes. I make my way to the balcony, taking in some fresh air, while waiting for the maids to come.
Xerxes joins me on the balcony, his presence commanding and imposing. He leans against the railing, his eyes fixed on the stars above.
"It's a beautiful night," he says, his voice low and thoughtful. "Perfect for making wishes."
"Wishes? Really" I chuckle a bit "I am done making wishes. They seem to never come true for me"
He turns to face me, a hint of curiosity in his eyes. "Never come true? Or just not the way you want them to?" he asks, his tone gentle yet probing. I stay silent at his reply. "Are your winters cold? I know its a silly question. Back home our winters came in slow, a few cold nights and some sunny days. A few snowy days followed by small storms. Other days it feels as though our skins are melting to the ground"
Mateo's lips curl into a small smile at my sudden change of subject. "Yes, our winters are quite cold," he says, his breath visible in the chill night air. "But they're also beautiful, in their own way."He turns back to the stars, his eyes distant. "Sometimes, I think the coldest winters are the ones we don't see coming," he murmurs, more to himself than to me.
A knock at the door interrupts us. Two maids walk in, bringing extra clothes and a few drinks. I hear them murmuring something beneath their breaths "If you have something to say, say it or shut your mouth" Xerxes commands. The maids apologize and leave the room.
"Please excuse their behavior I will be back, I will have a word with the head of the household" Xerxes leaves the room, I take advantage and begin to undress myself.
I go the bathroom and clean up a little, slipping into the nightgown that was left by the maids. I take a sip of water and lay in bed. As I slowly drift off, I hear footsteps walking around the room. Not long after I feel Xerxes lay in bed next to me, facing the opposite direction.
The night begins to pour, thunder roaring from afar. What will life be like from now on?
What will happen to me and Zaiden? Will I be able to escape this marriage or will my fate be left to the gods to decide.