Liliana's POV:
"Say it again?"
The guy in front of me gulps visibly looking nauseous as he promptly kneels. "Y-Your Highness, H-His Highness has some business to attend to…"
My eyes glow red as I slam my palm on the table. He trembles as I try to control my breathing rate. "Business? Tell me, what business does he have to attend to this late at night?!"
"I'm sorry." His hands shake. "I can't disclose that."
"You can't disclose?" I narrow my eyes at the guy on the floor. "Or you won't?"
"It's currently almost 11 at night and he's still out doing business?" My arms cross in front of my chest. "Do you think I would believe that?"
"B-But-"
"He's out with a girl. Isn't he?!"
His butler cowers covering his head in fear. "I-I honestly don't know."
"You dare say you don't know?" I glare at him as he shudders. "Tell me the truth, Waltari, where has he been going these last weeks?"
His eyes widen. "His Highness has been in his room-"
"Don't dare lie to me." I walk towards the window staring at the crescent moon. "I did my research. These last few weeks, he's been sneaking out at night and returning in the morning. Hah, how sneaky. And to think that he isolated himself for a whole month." What has he been doing? Was he really seeing another girl?
And not to mention I found an unidentified bracelet in his coat pocket… I bet he doesn't even remember what today is.
(Click)
My eyes widen as a door clicks shut. "Who gave you permission to-"
"My stunning wife, what has gotten you so worked up?"
What…?
In my husband's arms is a pink bundle the size of a newborn. My heart sinks to my stomach. Why is he…? When… how did he… what the…?!
…
…
…
Wait… he's been sneaking out for the past weeks. An unidentified bracelet in his coat pocket. Now, a newborn baby of all things?!
"Please tell me that's not a-"
"Yes," He sighs rocking her back and forth as she grips his finger with a giggle. "This is indeed a baby."
Why do I even ask?
"Explain." I cross my arms staring at him as he summons up a bassinet to place her in.
"Explain what?" He raises a brow as I give him an expectant gaze.
"The baby you returned with. Who is she?"
"Oh," A chuckle escapes his lips. "Um… would you believe I found her?"
"No. No I do not." My eyes drift towards the peacefully resting newborn. "Who is she?"
"She's a newborn."
Dodging the question huh? Signs of a guilty conscience.
"Where is she from?"
"She's…" His mismatched eyes shifts around the room avoiding mine. "Uh…"
"Is she from another woman?" I ask with a slight edge to my voice as I clench my fist.
"It's not what you think. She's-"
"Oh really?" I roll my eyes with a scoff. "You've been sneaking out of the palace for days now. What have you been doing all that time?"
"Ah…" He rubs the back of his neck with a nervous smile. "I was just-"
"Admit it," My eyes narrow as I slowly approach him. "Who is she?"
"I-I'll can explain," His hands rise in surrender. "It's not what you-"
"Who is the mother of this child?!" I shout as he backs to the wall. I can't believe I fell for his lies! Just who is this woman that entices him so?
"Wait," Gears turn in his heads as he tilts his head to the right. "You… don't think that this child is-"
My hands clench into a fist. "How else would you explain the child you carried into our room?" I grit my teeth as I grasp his shirt collar. "I'll ask you again, my husband, who is that woman?"
"I can't tell you." He states after a moment as my breathing grows heavy. My blood boils as I lean closer until our nose touch.
"I will repeat." My hands grip his wrists. "Who is she?"
"I'm sorry but I can't tell you."
My heart clenches as my vision blurs. I can feel tears glistening from the corners of my eyes. He won't even let me know a name? Seriously?! What's so good about her anyway? Am I not enough for him? Didn't he vow on our wedding that that he will only have me as his wife? Wait… as his only wife… so doesn't it mean he could have one wife but unlimited mistresses? Damn the priest! Screw the vow writer! How could they do that? The vow should be "As my only lover"! Not my only wife!
"Are you trying to shield her?" A lump forms in my throat. "I won't kill her so please be at ease."
"Lily, it's not what you think."
"Then explain!"
The man in front of me looks away biting his lip. "It's not that I don't want to but I just can't."
He can't?!
"Hahahaha," A laugh escapes my lips. "You can't or you won't?"
"Well then if you continue to be stubborn, I have no idea other than making you confess, you don't want to taste a good wine but rather drink the bitter one?"
"If so, what do you intent to do?" He smirks as I narrow my eyes. You would be surprised, my beloved.
My eyes softens as I cup his cheeks. "How could you?" I sniffle. "I'm your wife. We have a daughter together and," I take his hand laying it on my small bump. "Not to mention, I'm pregnant. How could you do this to me?"
Her eyes widened as his arms draw me closer. "Honey, you know that I would never do such a thing. Why would I go throw away what I have for someone else?"
"If it's not yours, then who is it?"
"I…" He looks away as I grab both of his hands gently.
"Baby," My lips curve into a pout. "Do you not like me anymore? Is it because my body's changing so you don't find me appealing?"
"What?" A pair of arms hold my shoulders firmly. "How could you ever think that? You're the most attractive person I know, darling."
"Really?"
"I mean it." My husband leans in for a kiss as my lips curve upwards.
I got him!
While he was caught off guard, I swiftly use my power, chaining both his hands. "What are you doing?"
Another chain appear on the wall and hook his hands up past his head. The man in front of me struggles to shake the chains off as I stare at him.
"As you know, I'm the daughter of a world renowned general. Along with martial arts and sword fighting, I learnt the way to make one confess their wrongdoings. It seems to be a really effective method, so I guess I will try it you too, my dear husband." I smile at him innocently. "Will you give me permission, Your Royal Highness?"
"Do what you desire, I have done nothing wrong to begin with."
Nothing wrong huh? I'll show you nothing wrong!
Without wasting more time I unbutton his garment leaving the shirt hanging open. His muscular chest bare to the cold breeze, while I summon a whip.
"Last chance to confess, my loving husband. Tell me who she is and you can avoid this pain."
"I have done nothing wrong."
My lips curve into a smirk lifting the whip to eye level. "Guess you picked your punishment."
(Whip)
The whip hits his chest leaving a red mark on his smooth skin. The man in front of me groans at the sudden contact with the rope.
"Now, who is she?"
"There's no-"
(Whip)
Another whip sound could be heard as a second red mark appear on his skin. "You better open up or else you will bleed. Don't you know that my heart breaks every time you suffer?"
"I don't-"
(Whip)
"I told you! I-"
(Whip)
"Don't make this harder than it is!" I shout as I hit him again. "All I want is her name."
(Whip)
His breathing grows ragged as fresh blood from his wounds drip on the floor. "I told you. That child isn't-"
"You've been seeing her these past days, haven't you?" My eyes narrow as he groans at the impact of the whip. "No wonder you have been returning late. It's because of her!"
(Whip)
"Lily, please-"
(Whip)
"Don't fill my ears with lies, you handsome cheater."
(Whip)
"Now, confess or I will make you." My grip tightens in the whip as sweat drips from his muscular body.
"I scarcely know her."
Scarcely?! He has a child with her and he says scarcely? Hahahahaha!
"Finally an answer huh?" A smile crosses my lips. "It's only been a few days yet you already have someone new. Considering that child, you two known each other for a year now, correct?"
"Actually more than a year now."
I clench my fist to prevent hitting his gorgeous face. More than a year? More than a year?! You have got to be kidding me!
"Hah, your sister was right. The moment I let you slip between the cracks, you fly to someone new." I whisper as tears start to form. "Are you that desperate? You can't even control yourself, instead you found yourself a woman that isn't your wife. Tell me Astral, what is so attractive about her? Am I not enough to satisfy your desires?!"
"We are innocent." He said in a neutral tone of voice as I look at him in disbelief. "You should know me by now, since when do I cheat?"
"Since a year ago!" My voice raises as I blink the tears away. "Was it that purple haired woman you flirted with at the cafe?"
His eyes widened with a shocked expression. "You know her?"
"I didn't but I know now." My tongue clicks as I gulp. "What's so attractive about her anyway? She wears way too much makeup and looks like a bamboo!"
"Wait, wait, wait," He blinks and looks at me. "You were there at the cafe?"
You didn't even notice me?! He should've sensed my aura!
"You didn't even sense me behind you?"
"…I…"
(Whip)
"Great!"
(Whip)
"Just,"
(Whip)
"Because,"
(Whip)
"Of,"
(Whip)
"That,"
(Whip)
"Freaking,"
(Whip)
"Woman!"
(Whip)
He breathes heavily as more wounds etch into his once smooth skin. A slight hiss and groan escapes his lips as I bite the inside of my cheek. This is his punishment. He has done wrong. This is all his fault. He deserves this.
"How many times do I have to tell you? Katherine and I are innocent!"
My eyes light up. "Ah, so you finally reveal her name huh?" Katherine huh? So it was you who seduced my husband. I will bring you to the grave for stealing my man! Mark my words.
I run the blood covered whip across his cheek as he shudders. "Darling, I swear, I didn't-"
(Whip)
He shuts his eyes tightly as my hands clutch the whip. A bright red mark appears on his cheek as blood drips from the wound.
"How many times do I have to say it?" My hands trembles as I rapidly blink the tears away. "I'm not your baby, honey, or darling."
"Lily, that baby isn't mine."
(Whip)
"You think I would believe that?"
A hiss escapes his lips as his eyes starts to snap shut. "It's the truth. Have I ever lied to you before?"
"Have you ever lied to me before?" I place a hand under my chin. "Hm… let me think… yes!"
"When?"
"You had no meeting with clients these days. The only logical explanation is that you were going out to see her!"
"What kind of logic is that?" My husband protested struggling against at the restraints. "And couldn't I go outside when there is nothing going on?"
"But considering your recent behavior, and the fact that you returned with a baby…"
"That child is not mine!"
(Whip)
I glare at him as he groans. "If it's not yours then whose?"
"I can't tell you."
(Whip)
"Why are you so stubborn?" My breathing labors as I clutch the whip in my hand. "You claim that this child isn't yours but fail to provide evidence."
"I…"
(Whip)
"Tell me!"
"I can't tell you her name."
(Whip)
"So you know more than one woman?" My eyes narrow. "Just great!"
(Whip)
"Just how many women have you hooked up with behind my back?!"
My husband gapes at my question. "You honestly think I would do that?"
(Whip)
"Is there anything or anyone that can stop you from doing so?" I whisper locking eyes with his. "You could kill someone just for the fun of it and people still wouldn't bat an eye."
"You know that's not how it works."
"Whatever. Point is, are you going to reveal the identity of her mother?"
"No."
I let out a puff of air. "Then I have no choice but to believe that you are her father."
"You know that I would never-"
"Yet you can't provide proof of your claims, my husband."
"But-"
"But nothing."
(Whip)
"Stop shielding her and tell me!"
"I'm not shielding-"
(Whip)
"We're innocent!"
(Whip)
"If you're innocent then tell me where the baby came from!" I seethe as he hissed from the repeated impact of the whip. "I bet you don't even remember what today is!"
(Whip)
My breathing grows ragged as he grunts and winces at my whip. "How… How many times do I have to tell you? That newborn is not mine. It's not that I don't want to tell you where she came from but I can't!"
A scoff escapes my lips as I roll my eyes. "You liar. Why should I believe you?"
(Whip)
"Because you love me?"
(Whip)
"Don't dare give me that!" I utter as I grip his collar. "It's true I love you but," My fingers let go of his shirt with a smirk. "You're the one at fault here, my beloved."
Estrella's POV:
"That's it!"
My friends hold me back with a grunt as I struggle within their grasps. "Stop."
"You can't go in now."
"Give me a reason why I shouldn't?" I shout as I struggle even more. "She's-"
"It's their problem. We will only make things worst."
"But-"
"Zach's right." My white haired friend said with a sigh. "As much as I hate to say it, we can interfere with their personal life."
"You don't think I don't understand that?" I look at them as their grips loosen. "Couldn't they talk it out diplomatically though?"
"Hm," My gold eyed friend places her hand under her chin. "You're not wrong but-"
"Exactly!" I exclaim throwing my hands up. "The use of a whip is completely overboard!"
"But notice how he's not screaming in pain."
"And it's Lily who's handling it. Do you think she's really going to hurt him?"
He's got a point. Why is he not screaming in pain? "Perhaps he's not at the maximum threshold for pain?"
"That may be the case,"
"Brandon, what are you thinking?"
"Hm…" His tongue clicks as his eyes light up. "I got it!"
"Got what?"
"I think she's not using it correctly. You see," We all glance at each other. "When used correctly, a whip, especially a flogger of some sort is extremely painful. It varies from a light burning sensation to blazing fire in a matter of minutes."
A… flogger…? I'm assuming that's a type of whip…
"What exactly is a flogger?"
"To put it in simple terms," His eyes meet her hazel's. "In the context of BDSM, a multi-tailed scourge typically made of soft leather."
We blink as we look at each other then back at him as a pink tint dusted his cheeks. BDSM…?
"Dude!"
"Seriously?!"
Zach and Derek shouted as he avoided our gazes. "You just had to bring that up."
"M-Make no mistake," My friend stammers as his face grows bright red. "I-I don't participate in such things."
"If not the how do you know what a flogger is?"
"Bro, tell us the truth," He smirks deviously leaning closer to him. "Do you actually have a kinky side-"
"Ay ya shut up guys!" A hand clamps over their mouths as their eyes widen.
"Kinky?" I raise a brow as the girls look at me shrugging their shoulders. "What's that?"
"Estrella, let's just say," He avoids my eyes. "You don't wanna know."
"BDSM…" My hazel eyed friend mutters mindlessly with a gasp. "Brandon, you-"
"No! Maria! No! It's not what you think!"
"I swear, I don't participate in those kinds of things."
"Then… how do you know what a flogger-"
"I read about it in a book!"
…
…
…
His hands cover his mouth in horror as the two guys gape at him in shock.
"You read books about it?!"
"Dude!"
"Nooo!" His face grows bright red as he runs away from them. "Leave me alone!"
"We know your secret." They sang as he covers his ears.
"Stop it!"
My head turns to my three friends raising an eyebrow at what just happened.
"Maria, what is BDSM?"
"Is that an acronym?"
"Why did he know such information?" I ask as my friend covers her face muttering something under her breath.
"Girls, it's better to not know what they were implying."
"What? But-"
"Just…" She sighs with a hand shake. "Forget about it."
BDSM?
Astral's POV:
Next morning:
My body aches with every movement I make as the sound of a baby crying rings out in the silent room. I will get her for this!
(Flash):
My wife's hand trembles as she glared at me. A deadly aura radiates from her as her eyes glow bloody red. Uh-oh…
The whip in her hands stain with fresh blood. Sweat drips from my forehead as my breathing labors. If I don't do something, I'll end up bleeding to death! But what can I do?
"Aren't you tired?"
"Tired?" She cackles with a dark expression. "I can do this till morning, my husband."
She finally snapped. Come on! What was I thinking being a baby home with…! Oh yeah… Sapphire. A sigh escapes my lips as I look down. Is this my reward for helping my friend? Getting chained up and whipped?!
A hand grips my chin forcing me to look into her stunning yet deadly purples. "Admit your wrongdoings and maybe," She places the whip on the ground and start to touch my wounds. "I will spare you from further pain."
Admit my wrongdoings? What exactly have I done wrong? "I would love to but I'm afraid that I don't have any wrongdoings to admit, my lovely wife."
A hand caresses my chest tracing the marks with a foxy smile. Her gentle touches send shivers down my spine as my wife leans closer. "Come on, don't be that way, handsome." The scent of vanilla and cherry blossoms intoxicate me as my heart thumps quicker. "Do you know how much my heart breaks to see you covered in wounds?"
A jolt of electricity flows in my body as I bite my tongue. God damn it! "Then set me free."
Her perfume assaults me as a pair of warm lips trails my neck. "Set you free?" I clench my fists tightly as a warm and moist tongue circles around my harden nipples. "I don't think so, my love."
Must not lose composure.
My breathing grows heavy as I hold back a groan. "Let go of me." Her teeth graze over them as my breath hitch.
"Lily,"
"Hm?"
"Did you hear me?" I groan as her hands snakes towards my member.
"Of course I did."
"Then what are you-" A gasp escapes my lips as a soft low moan rings through the room. My member stands to attention under my jeans as her hands stroke it. "You-"
"I did say that this is your punishment, right?"
She's not saying that she will…
"Let… go… of… me!" I said between gasps of breaths as my member grows incredibly hard. At this rate…
"Hm… let me think for a sec… no."
"You dangerous woman." My body burns as I clench my fist tighter.
She raises a brow. "And you just realized that now?"
Her cool hands rub my thigh locking eyes with me. "I will let you go if you tell me the truth, my love."
"For the last time," I groan as she kisses my collar bone. "That baby is not mine."
"Then who are her parents, gorgeous?"
Should I disclose it? It's highly tempting but… argh! I'm going hate myself in the morning. I just know it!
"Sorry, but I can't disclose that information."
My wife sighs as she backs away. "Seriously?" Purple eyes bore into mine as she leans closer to me gripping my chin until we were inches apart. "I gave you a chance but you didn't take it."
She leans back with a sigh using her powers to clean the whip and placing it in the box.
"Well, I'm tired. Goodnight."
What?! "Hey," I struggle against the restraints. "Release me. I need to rest as well."
What are these chains made of? Even my powers won't work on them.
"Those chains are made from Crystallite, the most durable and impenetrable substance on this world."
Figured. No wonder I can't seem to break it. "If you're tired then rest. No one's forcing you to stay awake." She covers a yawn pulling up the blanket.
"How do you expect me to sleep like this?" I shout struggling with the restraints. "You dare do this to The Prince?"
A hand waves dismissively. "Eh… I'm your wife so you have no authority over me. Besides, you can't do anything right now."
(Flash)
Ow… that stings so bad! I bite my tongue as I carry the baby from the bassinet to my arms rocking her back and forth.
"Daddy," A tug on my sleeve cause me to divert my gaze to her eyes. "Who is she?"
Her finger points to the girl in my arms as a smile crosses my lips. "This is Olivia."
My daughter climbs on the chair as I lower my arms. The girl in my arms giggle as her blue eyes twinkle in curiosity.
"Where did you get her from?" She tilts her head as I gulp. Ah… how am I going to explain this?
"Another woman." My wife said coldly eating her food as I glance at her. Is she still under the notion that I had an affair?
"Another woman?" My daughter's forehead wrinkles as a confused expression appears.
A chuckle escapes my lips as I pat her head. "Yes, she… gifted me this child."
Perhaps I could've worded that a bit differently. But it sure beats giving her that talk.
"She gave you a baby?" Her eyes drift down to the girl in my arms who is currently sucking on a milk bottle. "Why?"
"Well," Got to come up with something. "Because she wants to."
"But why does she want to?"
I'm screwed.
"Because…" My eyes drift to my friends as they shrug cluelessly. Oh come on. Help a guy out here! "She's my friend." I blurted out as my eyes widened.
Why did I say that? What have I done? My face pales as the room grows tense. I shouldn't have said that!
The person next to me snickers. "Friend? Such a generous friend you've got there, my husband."
Uh-oh… My friends all place their utensils down sitting in silence as my daughter tickles her making the girl laugh cutely.
"Honey," I whisper leaning closer to my right. "Can you not do this in front of her?"
Her eyelashes bat at me innocently. "Do what my love? All I'm saying is that you have a very generous friend that's all."
After all this time, she still thinks that this is my child?! Unbelievable. Just simply unbelievable.
A sigh escapes my lips as I shake my head. "Think whatever you want." There's no point in convincing her otherwise until this situation is resolved.
I feel a wetness on my thumb as I look down. My lips form a smile as the girl grabs my thumb in her tiny hands sucking on it happily. Guess she got tired of the milk.
"Why are you sucking on my thumb, little one?" I cooed tickling her stomach making her laugh. "You like being tickled huh?"
Her blue eyes sparkle as she latches on my thumb again with a giggle that melts my heart. Oh my gosh. She's adorable!
"Mommy, the baby is cute, right?"
"I guess." My wife barely spares at glance at me as she sips her water with a neutral expression.
"Well, I find her to be adorable!" Her purple eyes shimmer as she looks at me with a curious gaze. "Daddy, is she going to be my little sister?"
Suddenly the room grows more suffocating as her question rings through the ears of everyone at the table. My friends and sister inch back slowly as a dark, menacing, and murderous aura flows from the person next to me. Oh my precious daughter, I love you but why would you ask that?! You sealed my fate!
"Daddy?" Her eyes wander to everyone in curiosity raising her eyebrow looking back at me. "Is she going to be my little sister?"
I don't even dare breathe as the person next to me sets her utensils down with a clink crossing her arms over her chest. Trouble. Definitely trouble.
"I forbid it." An authoritative voice rings out as she bores her eyes into mine coldly. "She will not be your little sister, Melody."
"But why?" Her eyes drift towards her mother as she smiles a bit patting her shoulder.
"Because I say so, darling."
"But…"
Purple eyes meet mine with a smirk. "Surely you would agree as well, my dear husband?"
"Ah, of course." A chuckle escapes my lips as a shiver shoots down my spine. Was she always this scary? "Melody, she will not be your sister."
"Why not?" A whine escapes her lips as she holds my arm.
"Because your mother said so."
"Correct," Her eyes narrow. "As long as I'm here, she will never be apart of this family, Astral."
What have I done? How can I possibly turn this around? I nod rapidly. "See? Listen to your mother, honey pie."
Her purple eyes blink between me and my wife with a suspicious expression. Is helping out a friend really worth this trouble? At this rate, I might not be able to sleep on the bed for awhile.
"Your Highness, Her Royal Highness, Princess Consort, Young Princess,"
"You may rise,"
My butler looks at the girl in my arms with a confused expression shaking his head a bit. "Your Highness, the king and queen wants to see you."
My parents? "I'll be right there."
"Astrana, can you hold-"
"And they want to see the baby as well." He interrupts as I blink.
"What?" I hold her closer to me. "Why?"
He shrugs. "I don't know, Your Highness but please, follow me."
In my parents' room:
"So," My mother placed her tea down on the table raising a brow. "This is the child that you brought home, isn't it?"
The girl squirms in my arms letting out a cry as I gently rock her side to side. "Yes,"
"Where did you get her?" My father jumps in as the girl whimpers.
"Why would you ask that?" I ask not sparing him a glance as he lets out a sigh.
"We're curious." She chimes in. "I mean, how are we supposed to react when our son brought a baby home?"
True…
"Don't you already have a theory as to why I brought her home in the first place?" My lips curve into a smile as her tiny hand pat my cheek. "It seems a waste of time asking me, don't you think?"
She bites her lower lip with a hesitant look. "Well yes but I want to hear it from you." A serious expression crosses her face. "Where did this baby come from?"
"From a woman."
She blinks with a sigh. "Son, I'm being serious. Where did she come from?"
"From a woman." I look up to meet her gold eyes. "Didn't you already ask that?"
"You don't really expect me to believe that you had an affair with some girl and this is your child, do you?"
I place my water down with a clink. "It depends on you." My lips curve into a smirk. "Does that sound believable?"
"No. No it does not." Her arms cross in front of her chest. "Now, I want nothing but the truth. What are you planning?"
"Me?" My eyes widened with a shocked expression. "How can you accuse me of such a thing, mom?"
Her hand covers her mouth stifling a giggle. "Because after 18 years, you don't do anything without a reason. So naturally, bringing this baby home is beneficial to you somehow."
I raise a brow at my mother. "How do you know that this isn't my child? Why would you assume that I have a plan?"
"Please," She waves her hand dismissively. "You would never do something like that. Plus, why would you go do something like that when you love your wife? It doesn't make any sense."
Mother always know best. Guess that phrase is true after all.
"As I said, believe what you want to believe but I can't disclose anything to you at the moment."
She sighs yet again as her eyes drift to the girl in my arms. "Does she have a name?"
"Olivia."
"Olivia huh?" My father ponders placing a hand under his chin. "Did her mother pick it?"
"I would assume so." I reply bluntly not glancing at him.
"Do you know that woman?"
"You would assume that I took a stranger's baby?" I raise a brow at him as his eyes widened. "Wow… nice to know you think so low of me, father."
"What? No! That's not what I meant!"
"Oh? Then what did you mean then?"
The man in front of me clutches his head with a sigh. "Son, it's been a month. Can't you-"
"Don't call me that."
(Knock)(Knock)
Perfect timing!
"Your Majesties, may I enter?"
"Go ahead."
(Creek)
The door opens as a guy with brown eyes bows at us. "Your Majesties, Your Highness,"
"What is it?"
I lend him my ear. "Your Highness, a woman wants to see you." He whispers as as I raise a brow.
A woman?
"Location?"
"I arranged her by the royal garden away from Her Highness's location."
"Good job, Waltari."
He leans back as I stand up. "Mother, may I be excused? I have something to attend to."
She nods. "Alright, go do what you have to do."
I turn towards the door. A woman? Is it Katherine? Looks like she's commencing her plan already.
"I'm sorry."
I pause mid-step as his voice rings throughout the room. He… apologized? How odd. That's not like him at all. He's too prideful to apologize. I must've heard wrong. Maybe it was because I slept standing last night.
(Slam)
In the royal garden:
"Your Highness, want me to carry her."
"Yeah sure-"
My eyes widen as a woman with long blue hair and blue eyes sits in the gazebo not far from me. Sapphire? What on earth is she doing here?! Doesn't she know how dangerous it is?
"Actually," I retract my arms holding the baby close. "Stand by and notify me if anyone and I mean anyone comes this way. Got it?"
"Got it, Your Highness." He walks away leaving me.
"Sapphire," I approach her as her eyes light up like a Christmas tree.
"Astral, long time no see!"
I roll my eyes sitting beside her. "We just literally saw each other yesterday."
She giggles as her eyes drift to the child in my arms. "Can I hold her for a second?"
"Why are you asking?" I hand the baby to her. "Your her mother for crying out loud."
"Livi," She sang rocking her daughter back and forth. "Did you miss mommy?"
The girl giggles grabbing her fingers squirming in her arms. Aw, My lips curve into a smile as a cry rings out. What?
My friend's eyes widen rocking her daughter back and forth. "What's wrong, Liv?"
"Maybe she's hungry?" I guessed as she summons up a bottle by her daughter avoids drinking it.
Or not.
"I don't get it," She bounces her up and down gently. "She was fine a moment ago."
Hm… My eyes narrow as the baby squirms in her mother's arms. A high pitched cry rings throughout the garden as tears leak from her eyes. I wonder…
"Hey, can I hold her a bit?"
She blinks as she hands her daughter to me. "Of course."
I rock her gently in my arms. "What's the matter, sweetie?"
Her cries softens to a whimper as her tiny fingers grip mine tightly. Ohhhhh… I see what the problem is.
"Olivia, you're too cruel." The woman next to me pouts. "It's only been a day yet you like him more than your own mother."
A smile crosses my lips as I look up. "I'm sure that's not true. You're her birth mother after all. I'm just a caretaker for the time being."
My friend sighs with a head shake. "Oh, speaking of that, how did Her Highness react?"
"When I carried her into the room?" I stifle a laugh. "Let's just say it was quite an eventful night."
She gasps. "I'm so sorry, Astral. I shouldn't have-"
"No, no, it's not your fault." My eyes drift to the child sucking on her thumb. "You were out of options and wanted what's best for her. I get it."
"But because of my actions, I unintentionally ruined your life…" She looks down in shame.
"I wouldn't say ruined. Actually, I think because of your actions of bringing this baby to me sparked something in my wife that I haven't seen in a while now."
My friend looks up in confusion. "Huh?"
I place a hand under my chin. "She became more confident and assertive. Traits that I admire about her before are coming back because of this baby."
"Was Her Highness not confident before?"
I let out a soft breath. "I wouldn't necessarily say that but as with all married women, she was quite insecure about her appearance especially since she's pregnant."
"Ah yes." My friend nods. "I get it. We're afraid that our husbands will go after a new, younger, more attractive woman."
"I get that worry but seriously? I mean, why would we marry a person if we don't love them?"
"Some men treat marriage as a game." She smacks her lips in distaste. "They switch from one girl to the next disregarding her emotions."
(Flash):
"Marriage is a business."
(Flash)
A business… does that also count as a game? Whatever, at least I'm not one of those guys that switches partners every now and then.
"I agree and oh, I've been meaning to ask, what brought you here today?" My eyes meet her blue's. "You how dangerous it is for you to be in public."
"I know but…" Her eyes drift towards the baby in my arms who is fast asleep clinging onto my shirt.
The bond of a mother and her child is unbreakable. Guess that saying is also true.
"Sapphire, if you wanted to see her, you could've called my cell. That way, I could bring her to you instead of risking getting seen by the public."
"I didn't want to cause even more trouble for you than I already have." My friend materializes a green pacifier and hands it to me. "Also, this is her pacifier. If she cries during the night, just stick this in her mouth then rock her a couple times."
"Thanks."
"No problem."
"You know, I never asked your boyfriend's name." I ask after a moment ruining the silence between us. "You said that he's here, right? A name would sure be beneficial."
"His name is Jasper."
Jasper huh? "That will certainly make things easier when searching for him."
A hand touch mine as I look downwards into her pleading eyes. "Please save him. He didn't do it on purpose." Tears glisten in the corners of her eyes. "He would never hurt a fly let alone murder someone."
"Don't worry," I summon a box of tissues. "I wouldn't have helped you if my intentions weren't to save him. Besides," My eyes drift to the sleeping baby in my arms. "He's her father."
"You believe me?" She ask in disbelief as I nod.
"Mhm. Albeit, I still have to look over his files but there's no way you would lie after handing over your daughter to me. That wouldn't make any sense."
"But before I do anything, you need to let me know how you two met."
The woman in front of me nods drying her tears. "Jasper and I have been seeing each other for a while now. We met at a party two years back. Of course, he was just a waiter there but he caught my eye."
"We became friends. I admired him for his honesty and kind nature. However since I'm the daughter of a noble family, there's an obvious socioeconomic difference that made us incompatible with each other."
"Before long, I realized that I loved him but my father wouldn't have it. He would lock me in the mansion and monitor my every move. It was pure torture. To make things worse, he also went to my beloved's house and wrecked everything in an attempt for him to leave me alone."
"But, thankfully he didn't get his way because we still found a way to meet up." Her lips curve into a nostalgic smile as she stares at her daughter. "After we found out that I was pregnant, we made arrangements to run away because knowing how my father is, he wouldn't accept my child especially if her father is a commoner."
"That night," My friend blinks rapidly as I hand her a tissue. "If we only met an hour sooner then we could've gotten away with it."
"I'm assuming your father caught you?"
The woman in front of me nods. "Yeah. The guards restrained me while they were ordered to kill him. I managed to get free but found myself face to face with an incoming sword. He saw this and pushed the attacker away from me, making him stumble back hitting his head on a rock."
(Flash):
"You cannot date her." My father's voice rings out as my eyes widened.
"What? But why?"
"Son, even if your mother and I don't mind, what will others think?"
"What do you-"
"How would the people feel if the prince got together with a commoner?"
"Father, you might care about opinions but I don't."
"My final answer is no. I'm not going to budge on this decision."
My fists clenched as I lock eyes with him. "And why might that be?"
"You cannot be so reckless. I get that you like her but you two are of a different socioeconomic level. She's just a commoner."
"So? I don't get what the problem is."
"You're going to be the future king of this world. You can't afford to upset the public."
I scoff waving a hand dismissively. "And how do you know that I will upset the public by dating her? Maybe they will be pleased because I'm dating one of them."
"Perhaps but that's too big of a risk." He said after a moment. "Also, she's just a commoner. She won't benefit you anyway once you become king. You need a princess that can support you through challenges."
"How do you know that she won't be able to-"
"Her status is of that of a mere commoner. She holds no political power or prestige that will enable you to gain and consolidate power."
"That doesn't matter!" My voice raises as it echos throughout the room. "All that matter is-"
"It might not matter now but it will in the future." He stands from his throne. "I will not let my only son date such a useless individual."
Useless?! "You take that back! She's anything but useless."
"Astral," His voice booms as I glare at him. "Once you ascend this throne, it's a matter of life and death. You need someone to back you up. Someone with political influence. One false move and it's game over."
"So you're saying that as long as I'm the prince, I can't make my own decisions?"
"That's correct. Every decision you make has to benefit this world."
If that's the case… My lips curve into a smirk. "Then I quit."
His eyes widened. "Come again?"
"You heard me. I said that I quit. I'm resigning from this role. Give it to someone else."
The man in front of me blinks. "That's not how it works." He facepalms shaking his head. "You can't just quit."
"Just watch me."
"So," His fingers rub his temples closing his mismatched eyes. "You're telling me that you would rather chose her than being the prince of this world and ascending the throne?"
"That's right."
"Just what has this girl done to you?" He mutters pinching the bridge of his nose. "Why are you like this?"
"Why am I like this?" I raise a brow. "It's because of her."
"I assumed that much."
"Let me ask you again, you would chose to give up power and being the future king for a girl?!" He asks in disbelief as I nod.
"That's correct."
"Son, just listen to yourself!" He approaches me placing his hands firmly on my shoulders. "Are you in your right mind?"
"I am."
"Really?"
"Yup."
"Just what has she been doing to you? How could you chose a girl over this world?"
I shrug. "What's the point of obtaining power and this world if you're unhappy?"
"Nonsense! Listen to me, once you become king, you can have any woman you want. No one would dare refuse you. Why focus on one girl?"
He's joking, right?
"I don't need anyone else. I just need her by my side."
His hands slip from my shoulders as he clutches his head. "I don't even recognize you anymore. What happened to my logical son?"
That kid is gone. Well, I wouldn't say completely but I'll admit, I like being more in tune with my emotions. It's a nice change of pace.
"Father-"
"I already said no, Astral. I'm not changing my mind anytime soon."
My eyes narrow. "Wasn't it you and mother who encouraged me to show my emotions? Well, now I'm finally showing and acting upon it and you say no?!"
"Yes but not like this! You're just being impulsive."
"I'm not being impulsive. How is liking someone impulsive?"
"Anyone can chose a partner except you. You don't have a choice when it comes to this."
What?! How is that fair?
"Why? Why don't I have a say? Why can't I-"
"Because you're my son. Because your royalty and will become the king." He shouts pointing a finger at me. "The quicker you understand that, the better."
"Then I would rather not have this title of Prince." I said after a moment as he looks at me in shock.
"Guards!"
The door slams open as they kneel. "Yes, Your Majesty?"
"Lock him in his room until further notice."
My eyes widened. "Father, you-"
"My decision is final. You're being too impulsive. Maybe some time alone will let you reflect."
The head guard looks at me then at my father with a conflicted expression. "But Your Majesty-"
"Nathan, do you work for me or my son?"
He gulps. "Yes, Your Majesty."
"Let go of me!" Two guards restrains me as I struggle to get free.
"Sorry, Your Highness, just following orders."
(Flash)
No wonder her story seems familiar. My fists clenched as I look into her blue eyes. Just because of their different ranks, they were forced to separate.
"My father put me under house arrest and took my boyfriend to His Majesty."
No wonder… "That definitely makes things easier. At least I know his location."
She nods. Her eyes once again drift towards her daughter, petting her blue locks softly. "After I gave birth to her, I knew that I had to find some way to escape without my father noticing. Since he's being locked up at the palace," Her eyes meet mine with a minuscule smile. "I thought of you."
I returned her smile with my own. "And after hearing that story, I will do my best to help."
Her eyes widen grasping my hand tightly. "Really?! Oh thank you. Thank so much, Astral! You have my undying gratitude."
A chuckle escapes my lips. "No need to thank me, Sapphire. My only goal is to see you two be together. If that can happen, it shows that there can be love between a royal and a commoner."
And it will show my father that he was wrong about Astraea.
(Ring)(Ring)(Ring)
"Give me a sec," I pick up my phone putting it on speaker mode. "Waltari, what's the matter?"
"Your Highness, Her Royal Highness, The Princess Consort, and The Young Princess, are headed this way as we speak!"
"What?!" My friend stands up looking for a place to hide.
"You have to stall them. I don't care which method you use but just stall them for as long as possible, got it?"
"I'll try my best, Your Highness."
The line disconnects as I shove my phone in my pocket. Seriously? Why now?
"I can't let them see you." I glance around at the surroundings. But there's nowhere to hide…
"Can I climb over the fence? Can I do that?" She paces around in the gazebo with a panicked expression. "Isn't there a secret entrance/exit in this garden somewhere? In the movies, there is usually one."
Ah-ha!
"You're a genius." I rise interlocking my hand with hers. "If I remember correctly, there used to be a passageway that served as an exit in case of emergencies."
"It should still be there." We made our way out of the gazebo and to a grey wall covered in grass. I carefully turn the little circle on the wall as a door opens revealing a lit passageway leading through the outside world. "I knew it."
"Woah… just like the movies!" She exclaims in fascination as I smile.
"Yes, now, a few things to be careful of." I summon up my jade rectangular pendent. The picture of a golden dragon is carved on it. "Remember, since it's a secret passage, there will be traps. You go straight and keep making rights until you reach a door. On the other side of that door will be a guy demanding why you are using this escape route."
"Was that why you're letting me barrow this?"
"Yes," I glance over my shoulder. "Just show him this pendent and he will stop interrogating you."
"But there's no way that I can accept this. I mean just-"
"It's fine. You can return it when we see each other again."
A hesitant look appears on her face as it morphs into a grateful one. "Thank you, Astral."
Her eyes linger on the baby as she leans in to kiss her head. "See you next time, Liv."
"Don't worry," I take her hand kissing it with a reassuring smile. "I'll make sure no harm comes to her."
Her eyes widened at bit at the sudden gesture as she pecks my cheek. "Thanks, my friend."
The door shuts as I touch my cheek with a small smile shaking my head. "Well, looks like it's you and me again."
Astrana's POV:
"Your Highness, you can't go that way."
My sister-in-law crosses her arms. "And why not?"
"That route is closed for construction."
"Construction?" I ask raising a brow. "I wasn't notified of anything going on today."
"She's right and what needs to be redone?" She gestures around the garden. "Everything here is already top notch."
"Um…" I raise a brow as his face pales with sweat dripping from his forehead. That's odd. Why is he looking so nervous?
"Your Highness, you absolutely cannot go this way." He kneels blocking the path to the gazebo.
"Why not?"
"Erm… um…"
"Waltari," A voice rings out as a guy with mismatched eyes steps forward carrying a baby in his arms. "You're dismissed."
He nods as he retreats leaving us. "Daddy!" My niece hugs his leg as the child in his arms stirs awake letting out a wail causing me to cover my ears. Oh wow she's loud! Good grief.
"It's ok," My brother bounces her up and down gently. "I'm here, Livi. I'm here." His hands pat her back as tears leak from her blue eyes.
Wow… he just ignored his own daughter.
She frowns as my brother paces around the area trying to soothe her cries. "Awwww, no need to cry, sweetie. It's alright. Everything's alright now." He whispers as her cries softens into whimpers.
A smile crosses his lips as his index finger gently poke her nose making her giggle. "By the way things look now, you're going to be such a needy little child, you know that?"
Her forehead wrinkles as her lips quiver. His mismatched eyes widened. "I'm joking, Livi. I'll take care of you no matter how needy you are."
The baby giggles happily as he plants a kiss on her head.
"Mommy," Her purple eyes look up at my sister. "Why was she crying?"
"Because she woke up from her nap."
She nods as she approaches her dad. "Daddy?"
"Hm? What is it sweetheart?"
"Can I hold her?"
That might not be such a good idea.
He lets out a breath. "I'm afraid not."
"Why's that?"
"She's just a baby and babies are notoriously fragile."
Her purple eyes blink with a head tilt. "Then can I touch her?"
"Sure," He kneels to her level. "But be careful."
"Wow, she's squishy." A laugh emits from her dad as she pokes her cheeks. "And soft as well."
My sister and I stifle laughs as her eyes sparkle in awe. The curiosity of a child knows no bounds.
"No wonder you like to carry her so much." She mutters as the baby coos cutely. I don't care if that child is his or not. All I know is that she is here to stay. "Dada, I want you to carry me as well."
"Alright." His eyes glance at his wife. "Darling, can you… you know what? Never mind."
"Astrana," My brother's eyes drift over to me. "Can you-"
"What?" She rolls her eyes. "Are you afraid that I would harm your child?" My sister-in-law scoffs. "Even though she's not mine, there's no way that I would harm a baby."
"How many times must I say it? She's not my child with another woman." He groans shaking his head.
My sister sticks her tongue out. "So you say."
Why am I always the one in the cross fire? Why can't they just get along? They never got into arguments with each other but now… A sigh escapes me. This pair will drive me insane. I just know it.
"Anyway," My brother hands the baby to me. "Can you hold her for a minute?"
Hm… ah-ha!
"Why me?" I raise a brow. "I mean, you know me, I never held something so helpless and vulnerable in my life."
"This is good practice. You just have to support the head and neck to prevent them from snapping."
What?!
"Snapping?!"
"Yeah, if you don't support her neck, it can lead to numerous of injuries because the neck is fragile." My brother hands her to me as I gulp. Babies are that vulnerable?! If something happens… A shiver runs down my spine. No. No way am I being responsible for this baby. If something happens, he'll kill me!
"Nah," A giggle escapes my lips as I take a few steps back. "I'll pass."
"Astrana, it's not rocket science. All you have to do is be gentle then you'll be fine."
My eyes widen. "You're telling me that one false move will break her neck and disable her for the rest of her life! How can I not be nervous?"
He blinks looking at the cooing baby in his arms then back at me. "Fine," His mismatched eyes drifts to his wife as she stands crossing her arms. "Honey…"
"Oh so now you come running to me?" She shoots him a condescending sneer.
"Don't be that way," He glances at his daughter playing with the flowers as he looks at his wife. "Especially when she's so close by."
"How are you expecting me to react then?"
"Mommy, mommy," Her daughter interrupts the starring contest between them as their gaze drifts to the bee sucking the nectar from a flower. "What's this creature?"
That's a…! "Melody, don't touch it!" I said calmly as she furrows her brows.
"Why?"
"Listen to me and back away from it slowly." Her mom said in a serious tone of voice as she blinks.
"But, mommy, what is that thing doing?" My niece approaches it with a curious gaze. "It looks weird."
Uh-oh… "Back away this instant." My brother's voice rings through my ears.
"But this creature-"
"Now."
"Psst," I lean close to my sister-in-law. "If I remember correctly, she's allergic to bees, right?"
"Mhm."
A bee sting can cause many complications if the victim isn't allergic but if the victim happens to be allergic… the venom could be fatal. Especially for a two year old! Oh no!
Her lips form into a frown as the bee hovers close to her. "Daddy, uh…" Her feet stumbles back as her eyes radiate fear. Screw it. I have to protect my niece!
The bee was getting ready to sting when a blur rushes past me pushing my niece to the ground. What on earth…?
"Ow!"
My sister hisses as the bee injects her hand with venom. She holds her hand as the swelling starts making the site red and swollen.
"Are you insane?!" Her husband shouts as he takes out his sword slashing the bee in half. "Did you forget you have a bee allergy? Are you trying to put our unborn child in danger right now?"
He promptly hands the baby to me and rushes to her side. "What else am I supposed to do? Watch our daughter get stung and potentially have a life threatening reaction?"
"You idiot. You also have a bee allergy."
"It's better for me to get stung than her. Her immune system isn't fully developed yet."
"Woah," My eyes widened as the color from her face starts to drain as he lowers her to the ground slowly. "Ok," My brother summons up a tiny pill. "Swallow this,"
"What is it?"
"Just swallow it. It will slow the reaction."
"Daddy," Tears well up in her purple eyes as she look at her parents. "Is mommy gonna die?"
Die?!
"Where did you learn such unlucky words?" I scold. "She's not going to die."
"My sister is right, Melody." He picks her up in his arms. "No one's going to die on my watch. Not again."
Not… again…! I bite my lip. He's still…
"What are you doing?" My sister-in-law voices laying her head against his chest. "Put me… down."
"Look at yourself, you're so pale. Do you honestly think I will let you walk in this state?" He tightens his grip on her.
"I can walk myself." She squirms in his arms as the color drains from her face even more.
"I know you're angry with me but this is your health we're talking about. Not to mention, our child's safety." His eyes locks with hers as she stops moving.
"Astrana, notify the doctor immediately."
"On it!"