Astral's POV:
Evening:
"How is she?"
"Her Highness is fine. Thankfully, the antihistamine you gave her was strong enough to prevent a full on allergic reaction."
I let out a breath. "Thank goodness. How's the baby?"
"The baby is also fine. No need to worry."
Thankfully I had that medication on me or else, I don't even want to think of what might happen.
"Daddy, so does that mean mommy is not dying?"
My finger poke her nose making her forehead wrinkle. "Why on earth would you think that? Of course she's not dying."
"Your Highness," His eyes meet mine. "May I speak to you for a moment?"
I nod as I place my daughter down on the ground. "Of course."
Outside the room:
"Is something wrong with my wife?"
He glances around to see servants walking in and out of the hallway.
"Let's go to my office."
Liliana's POV:
"Are you still mad at him for-"
"If you already know, then what's the point in asking, Maria?"
I glance at the baby in my sister-in-law's arms. "I shouldn't recognized it sooner. The signs of infidelity and lies."
Was I blind? Every time he was on his phone, was he texting and talking to her? Hahaha, why did I now just realize it? Him coming home late at night. Even if it's work related issues, it shouldn't take that long.
"Lily," My sister chimes in rocking the girl in her arms. "I don't think he would do such a thing. I mean not to defend him or anything but you saw how he reacted when you got stung. Why would he react like that if he doesn't love you?"
"I agree," My white haired friend chimes in. "There would be absolutely no reason for him to do that if his heart changed."
True… I scoff waving a hand. "You've got a point but he's a really good actor. Almost to the point whether I can't even tell if he's lying or not. He could just be putting on an act for all I know."
My friends groan shaking their heads. "Seriously?" He raises a brow. "After all this time you two have been together, you tell me that you can't tell if he's lying or not?"
"I mean…" Sometimes it's hard to distinguish between the two… "I gave him a chance to explain but he wouldn't budge."
"You mean when you used a whip to hit him?"
My eyes widened. "Estrella, how did you… you six eavesdropped, didn't you?"
"Can you blame us?" He runs his fingers through his dark hair. "You looked like you were about to murder him."
"You're right," I cross my arms. "I was about to maim him for doing such a thing."
"Mommy," A voice calls out with a frown. Her hands hold mine. "Don't kill daddy!"
"Why shouldn't I?"
Her lips form a pout. "If you kill daddy then no one will buy me toys or new clothes anymore."
…
…
…
A smile crosses my lips as I giggle running through her blue and black locks. Blue and black locks? How strange… I could've sworn that she had blue hair. Where did this black streak come from?
"I was only joking, sunshine. There's no way I'm able to harm him." Not only do I love him but he's also heavily protected by the guards. Killing him would be a one way streak to hell, emotionally and physically.
"Anyway, I honestly don't think that he would do such a thing."
"Zach," A breath escapes my lips. "The evidence is right here." My gaze drifts to the baby girl sleeping peacefully in her bassinet near the bed. "He brought a baby home with him. What more do you want?"
"So what if he brought home a baby? It doesn't automatically mean that it's his and he's in an affair."
"That's not all, Brandon. I wish that was all but no. These days, he's been coming home really late. It could be a work related thing but I found out yesterday that he's been lying to me."
His eyes widened. "How? Surely he didn't admit it, right?"
"No, I shake my head. "I went into his office and saw that he didn't have any meetings these days. Actually, for the whole month there has been a significant decrease in his meetings with clients."
They all stay silent as I look out the window. "I know that doesn't necessarily prove that he's in an affair but it makes a person wonder, why would their husband lie about an insignificant thing like that?"
"Perhaps… he's looking for a reasonable excuse to go outside? That could very be the case."
"I thought of that as well but to lie just to go outside?" My hand rubs my stomach gently. "Why couldn't he just tell the truth instead of beating around the bush, Derek?"
My friend stays quiet yet again as my eyes drift to my daughter playing in the corner of the room. Something or someone must be compelling him to go out of this palace.
"And don't you think these days he's on his phone quite often? When I ask him about it, he just shuts it off and says 'no one'. Like that's not suspicious at all."
"Maybe it was a work related thing?" My sister-in-law asked placing her hand under her chin. "Yeah, if it's a work thing, he wouldn't want to bother you with such a trivial matter."
"I thought of that too but it doesn't make much sense. He's on his phone most of the day, even throughout the night. Who stays up that late messaging the other individual? And if it's a work related thing, can't they just meet up and chat in person? Why text at all?"
"Ok… but what if it's a friend?"
"A friend?" I ask in disbelief staring into her gold eyes. "Then that's even worst! To think that he might be in an affair with someone I know."
"No, like what if he's just texting a friend and doesn't want you to be bothered by it?"
"Star, he sometimes would stay up until two in the morning text this friend of his." I make air quotes around the word friend. "Why would someone be awake at 2 am?"
"What if his friend is in distress? You know his personality. He likes to help others."
"Yeah but it's not a one or two night thing, Estrella," A sigh escapes my lips. "It's been going on for awhile now."
If it's a one or two day thing then I wouldn't be so worried.
"Speaking of phones, he's been guarding his phone like a hawk."
"Meaning?"
"For example, he changed the passcode and never and I mean never leaves his phone unattended in my presence. Once, he left his phone to go do something, I was curious on why his phone was ringing so much so I picked it up to notice a text message from an unfamiliar number. When he came back, he looked liked he saw a ghost and immediately took his phone from my grasp."
My friends glance at one another. "Well… maybe… um…"
Nothing to say right? I figured that was the case.
"I'm still not convinced." He folds his arms across his chest shifting the weight of his body on his other leg. "The Astral I know wouldn't do such a despicable thing."
"I'm not trying to convince you, Zach." My eyes meet his browns. "I'm just laying down what I know."
"Have you tried asking why he's behaving like this?"
"He's been gone most of this week. I haven't had the chance to ask him. And when I did, he wouldn't tell me a single thing."
My friend stays silent staring at the window blankly. Hm…
"A few days ago," I summon up my makeup bag and pull out a simple silver charm bracelet with a crescent moon hanging from it. "I found this in his coat pocket. Why would he be in possession of a girl's bracelet?"
He shrugs. "It's your early birthday gift?"
"That could be possible but not likely." After all, he knows that I don't like to wear jewelry so why would he get me this?
"I'm sorry but I'm still not convinced. Have you-"
(Creek)
My husband steps in with a sigh as his gaze meets mine. My lips curve into a smile. "Honey, you're back."
His gold and silver eyes widened as they land in the bracelet in my hands. His reaction…
"Where… did you get that bracelet?"
"Oh this little thing?" Time to test him a bit. If this bracelet belongs to his mistress then… I examine it from multiple angles. "I found it on the floor."
A nervous laughter escapes his lips. "Oh, I thought I lost it somewhere. Thank goodness you found it." He holds out his hand with a smile. "May I have it back?"
I eye him with a suspicion gaze as I bring the object closer to my body. "Hm… I don't ever recall having a charm bracelet… and this is yours you say?"
"Yes, now give it back."
"Such an intricate design," My fingers play with the crescent moon. "Is it from your mistress?"
"Melody," My friend grabs her hand leading her towards the door. "I need your help with something."
"You need my help?"
"Mhm! It's something very important."
(Clink)
"You guys, must you do this in front of your daughter?"
"Stay out of this, Derek." I cast a warning glance at him as he shuts his mouth.
He stares at me with the usual emotionless expression as I shake it causing a little chime to ring throughout the room. Ah so it's musical as well.
"I'm going to cut to the chase," My face reverts to a neutral disposition. "Who does this bracelet belong to?"
"Someone. Now, hand it over."
"Someone? Could it be your mistress perhaps?" I bat my eyes innocently as he bites his lip. "Why else would you have a girl's bracelet?"
"So now I can't even possess a woman's object with you think that I'm in an affair?" My husband raises an eyebrow. "Nice to know you trust me so much."
"Tell me the reason then." My eyes narrow. "You need evidence to back up your claims. You claim that you're not in an affair but your actions say otherwise. You've been arriving home very late, staying up late on your phone for hours, going out more frequently, guarding your cell like your life depends on it and have been way more cautious around me then you had ever been in awhile." I finished with a gulp. "Why have you been acting like this? The only reason I can think of is that you're in an extramarital affair. Aside from that, sorry but I can't think of any other."
"The less you know the better." He utters as my fists clenched. The less I know the better?!
"Seriously?!" I raise my voice at him with a glare. "Is that a habit of yours? Always keeping others out of the loop? Always keeping people guessing about your intentions? Before it was like that. Now it's even more evident."
"Just who is that woman?" Tears drip from my eyes as the room blurs. "What's so great about her? Why are you so attracted to her? Am I not good enough for you?" I cover my mouth as he bares the neutral expression.
Who is she? Is he really bored of me? I feel as if a punch landed in my chest as the sting radiates through my body. "What does that other woman have that I don't? Tell me! Why are you being so quiet? Just tell me!" I shout in desperation as silences flows throughout the room.
A sob escapes my lips as I blink rapidly. Tell me so that I can live up to your expectations. Tell me…
"I'm sorry but I can't tell you." The man in front of me looks away as a pit of anger boils within me.
"You-"
(Knock)(Knock)
"Enter,"
The door opens as a guy with brown eyes enters looking around on the ground. "Your Highness," He bows. "Sorry to interrupt but I was wondering if you saw my bracelet anywhere?"
A… bracelet? "What did it look like?"
"Princess Consort, it's a simple silver charm bracelet with a crescent moon dangling from it."
So this bracelet… I lift the bracelet into view as his eyes widen. "Is this it?"
"Oh thank goodness." He lets out a breath. "I would've never forgave myself if I lost it."
"But," I glance at my husband then back to his butler with a raised eyebrow. "Why was my husband in possession of it?"
"Oh," A laugh escapes him. "Since my job requires me to be active and running around, I figured such a valuable item would be safe with His Highness."
Really?
My purple eyes stare at his mismatched eyes expectantly. "If that was the case, why didn't you say so earlier, my husband?"
He stays silent as the guy next to him chimes in again. "Ah, it was probably because I told him to keep that bracelet a secret."
"What's so valuable about a charm bracelet?" I ask curiously as he smiles.
"Well," His fingers rub the back of neck. "It belongs to my girlfriend…"
My eyes widened. He has a girlfriend?
"You have a girlfriend?" My sister-in-law asks in disbelief as he nods with a tint of pink to his cheeks.
"Yes,"
"But if that's the case, why bother keeping it a secret?"
His eyes shift side to side as he interlocks his fingers with each other. "My girlfriend and I just started dating a few weeks ago. In case something happens, I didn't want to notify anyone about her to keep her safe and out of the public eye."
That makes sense. With the world today, it's best if you don't become famous.
"You could've at least told me that, Astral." I crossed my arms. "How was I supposed to know without you telling me?"
"You were the one who believed it belonged to my mistress."
"Yes, but-"
"Furthermore, it seems to me that you like to accuse your husband."
"You could've said that the bracelet wasn't yours."
"Would you have believed me if I said so?" He raises a brow as I look down.
"Honestly," A sigh escapes his lips. "I don't know how much longer I can deal with all of the accusations from you, Liliana."
His feet shifts towards the door. "I'm going out."
My eyes widened at his cold tone. "Where are you going? It's late."
"What? Now you want to monitor where I'm going? Do I need to install a tracking app on my phone for you to see where I'm headed and where I am?" He snaps as I gulp.
"N-No. That's not what I meant-"
A scoff comes from his lips. "Whatever. I don't care. Think whatever you want. I'll be back later."
(Slam)
That careless tone… My heart pounds as I try my best to hold in the tears threatening to fall. Was I wrong? Am I overthinking way too much about his actions?
"I told you that he's not-"
"Ow!"
"Shut it, Zach."
Astral's POV:
"Why did you do that?"
I stand on the balcony looking at the beautiful array of colors above. There was absolutely no reason for him to step in like that.
"Please forgive me but I can't let Her Highness accuse you of infidelity like that."
My fingers feel the little charm bracelet in my hands. "She's right though." I said after a moment. "This belongs to another woman."
(Flash):
"Here," She presents me with a silver charm bracelet.
"What's with the sudden gift?" I raise a brow examining it from multiple angles.
Her lips form a pout. "Do I need a reason to gift my boyfriend something?"
"Mhm. Knowing you, you want something in return, right?"
"Me?" She feigns disbelief putting her hands towards her chest. "How dare you accuse me of such thing?"
I shake my head gently tapping her nose. "Ok, ok, sorry my lovely and beautiful girlfriend."
A pink tint dusted her cheeks as I plant a kiss on her lips. "So, what's with the bracelet?"
"Huh?" She snaps from her daze as I barely hold back another laugh. She's just too cute! "Oh, this is my good luck charm."
"Good luck charm?"
"Mhm. It was because of this that I met you." My girlfriend whispers as I blink.
How can this little object bring luck to the wearer? Huh… "Are you sure?"
"I'm positive. The same day I got it, I met you so it must be a good luck charm!"
"And you didn't think that it might be a coincidence I happened to be there while running errands?"
She giggles and look at the bracelet once more. "Whatever the case may be, wearing this charm will bring you good luck."
"You're giving it to me?"
"Yup!"
"Why? It's not that I'm unlucky or anything and besides, I don't wear bracelets."
The girl in front of me sighs handing it to me. "I know but it's a gift from me. Are you saying that you won't accept your girlfriend's gift?"
I gulp as her lips curve into a frown. Her pink eyes downcast as my chest tightens. Oh come on! How is she having this affect on me?
"How on earth can I refuse your gift?" I wrap my arms around her waist pulling her closer as the scent of ocean breeze fills my nostrils.
"Really?" Her pink gem-like eyes light up as our nose were inches apart. "You're gonna accept it?"
My heart hammers as her breath hits my lips. Bad thoughts. Bad thoughts! Stop it!
I nod as my lips curve upwards. "As long as you don't make me wear it then yea."
"Then what's the point of a bracelet if you're not going to wear it?"
(Flash)
Astraea… Damn it! I clench my grip on the balcony. Why am I like this? I shouldn't be like this. I have a wife and daughter. But why? Why can't I forget her? It doesn't make any sense!
"Master," A guy calls out from behind me. "You still can't forget, right?"
A breath escapes my lips as I stare at the bracelet. "Is that bad?"
My butler stays silent as my eyes drift towards the shining stars. "Why am I like this, Waltari? I know I shouldn't hold onto her. I shouldn't hold onto the past but no matter how hard I try, she keeps popping up in my mind."
It really is unfair to my wife. To have her husband think about another woman like this…
"If I may, you shouldn't forget what you're not ready to forget." My ears perk up at his words. "There's no reason to force yourself to forget someone if you're not ready to."
"But…"
"Grieving is a natural process, Your Highness. There is no reason you should feel guilty for it."
"You don't think I'm selfish?"
"Why would you ever-"
"I have a wife and daughter yet I can't seem to forget her. To me, it feels like I'm deceiving my wife somehow." I blink the tears away. "I… of course I know grieving is something we all go through but…"
My teeth clenched as I exhale. Is this a form of cheating? Am I wrong for remembering her? Not wanting to let her go? Why am I like this?
A hand touch my shoulder as I turn to meet his brown eyes. "You're being too hard on yourself." My eyes slightly widened. "Master, It makes sense you can't forget about her. I seen the way she changed you over the years." He blinks with a light smile. "Some people just can't be forgotten especially if they had a huge impact on a being."
I get that but... it still doesn't change the fact I feel like a manipulator...
"Your Highness, have you tried explaining this to Her Highness?"
"I…"
"I think she would understand where you're coming from. After all, your wife is a rational being."
Rational? Yea right. Cue last night's events.
"Now's not really the best time to confess my thoughts to her." I respond after a moment as he chuckles.
"I agree but remember, communication is key to a healthy and stable relationship."
Communication…
Liliana's POV:
I glance at the clock as it ticks closer to 11. I shouldn't have accused him like that. What is happening to me these days? Why am I getting so suspicious?
(Flash):
"You could've at least told me that, Astral." I crossed my arms. "How was I supposed to know without you telling me?"
"You were the one who believed it belonged to my mistress."
"Yes, but-"
"Furthermore, it seems to me that you like to accuse your husband."
"You could've said that the bracelet wasn't yours."
"Would you have believed me if I said so?" He raises a brow as I look down.
"Honestly," A sigh escapes his lips. "I don't know how much longer I can deal with all of the accusations from you, Liliana."
His feet shifts towards the door. "I'm going out."
My eyes widened at his cold tone. "Where are you going? It's late."
"What? Now you want to monitor where I'm going? Do I need to install a tracking app on my phone for you to see where I'm headed and where I am?" He snaps as I gulp.
"N-No. That's not what I meant-"
A scoff comes from his lips. "Whatever. I don't care. Think whatever you want. I'll be back later."
(Flash)
Since when did I… do I not trust him anymore? My eyes drift down towards my sleeping daughter as I stroke her hair. How did it come to this? When did I become so insecure? I wasn't like this before so why now?
A soft cry rings from the bassinet as the wail of a girl fills the room. Just when I thought I was going to get some peace to reflect. I wave an arm to change into my nightgown as I crawl over to the bassinet picking her up gently. Why is she crying? Did Astrana already feed her?
"Why are you so noisy?" I bounce her up and down as her cries subdue. "Huh? Answer me, Olivia."
Her sapphire blue eyes blink as a high pitched giggle radiates throughout the room. A tiny hand brushes my cheeks as my eyes widened. That's adorable… My lips unconsciously curve into a smile. No. Wait what? What am I doing? Why am I carrying her?
"You ruined my rest, you know that?" I said after a moment as her large eyes blink. "And I'm not very forgiving with people who disturb me."
That's right. I shouldn't let myself be swayed by her cuteness. Can't let myself form an attachment. After all, who knows where this baby came from. If it is my husband's mistress then… No, stop it! Don't go down that route.
"Who are you?" I ask looking down in my arms. "Where did you come from?"
The girl coos and starts to babble incoherent words as I shake my head with a sigh. "Huh? Answer me, sweetheart. Who's your mother?"
(Creek)
"You know that she's just a baby, right?" A masculine voice rings though my ears as the door opens. "She won't understand what you're saying."
My cheeks heat up as I look away. Why? Why do I always manage to do foolish things in front of him? Seriously?! He always comes in at the most inopportune times.
"L-Like you haven't talked to her either." I retorted as my gaze drifts to my husband opening the closet door.
"Touché but I haven't asked her such a question as that."
"Then who am I supposed to ask? It's not like you're going to give me an answer anytime soon."
My face heats up as he changes out of his black shirt into a black t-shirt with a head shake. "That's right."
My husband sits on the couch clutching his head with a hiss. "Ow,"
Eh? I place the baby down and glide over next to him. "Honey?" My fingers touch his arm cautiously. "Are you okay?"
"I'm fine."
(Chime)
Huh?
His phone screen lights up as he yawns rubbing his eyes. Why on earth is someone texting him this hour? The individual next to me reaches for it as I snatch it away.
"No."
"Baby, it might be important."
My beloved grabs his phone but I moved my arm. "Babe, I said no. This can wait until tomorrow."
"Come on, it's just a quick reply."
"No." He yawns once again rubbing his eyes with his thumb and index fingers. "You're tired. You need rest."
"But-"
"No. I bet you didn't get an ounce of sleep last night."
"And who's fault was that?" He raises a brow as a giggle escapes my lips.
"You deserved it." I mutter fiddling with my fingers. If he told me then he wouldn't have to suffer.
"You're cruel, you know that?"
My eyes widened as I look up. "Hey!"
"I speak the truth. If it were any other, he wouldn't have survived the punishment."
"That's why it's called a punishment, my dear." My lips form a smirk. "It's not supposed to be easy."
A cry rings out as he sighs standing up and walking towards the bassinet. "Olivia, what's up now?"
"Hm?" He bounces her up and down as her cries grow in volume. "Are you hungry? Is that it?"
My husband summons up a milk bottle plopping it into her mouth as she sucks it gleefully. "Why are babies so hungry all the time?" He mutters as I stifle a laugh with the back of my hand.
"I read somewhere that newborn babies should breastfeed 8–12 times per day for about the first month." I rise from the couch and sit on the bed near my beloved.
His eyes widened. "Eight to twelve times daily?!"
"That's what it says in the book that I read."
"Well, looks like another sleepless night it is."
My love holds the bottle as his lips curve into a a small smile. "How old is she?"
"She's roughly 2 weeks old."
The fact that he knows that… I gulp as I bite the inside of my cheek. No. I shouldn't think that way. But if he really is in an affair…
"And no, honey, I am not in an affair if that's what you were thinking. I happen to know this because she looks like a two week old."
"W-What? Why would you think that?"
His mismatched eyes blinks at me. "So does that mean you believe that I'm not in an affair?"
"Make no mistake, I still have my doubts but," A smile crosses my lips as I lean in to peck his cheek. "I believe you."
"What the…" He trails off in disbelief as he puts a hand to my forehead. "Are you feeling alright?"
"Why do you act so surprised?" A giggle escapes my lips as he places the sleeping baby down in her bassinet gently.
"Last night you were about to murder me but now… wow, I guess that saying is true."
"What saying?"
"When your wife is pregnant, her actions and moods become unpredictable."
"Hey! Are you saying that I'm moody?" My lips curve downwards as I cross my arms.
A pair of arms pull me closer and kisses my neck. "Baby, I didn't mean it that way."
"Right…"
"But it's true though."
"What?!" I snap my head towards him as a pair of lips peck mine.
"Your moods fluctuate easily."
I smack his chest furrowing my brows. "And who's fault is that?"
"Sorry, my darling. If I knew this was going to happen then-Mph!"
My lips cover his swiftly interrupting his sentence. His eyes widened as I pull away leaning my forehead on his. "Don't apologize for this."
"But-"
I place a finger on his lips. "Don't you dare apologize, baby." I whisper placing his hand on my baby bump. "If it wasn't for our children, we wouldn't have gotten married this quickly. If it weren't for them, then you might not have recalled the past."
"I'm pretty sure I would've remembered with time anyway." He states as a silence fills the air.
"And… I might have heard wrong because of the sleep deprivation but did you say children?" He asked after a few minutes of silence as I hold his hand.
"Yup." Does he not know about the ultrasound? Oh wait… that was when he was in isolation…
"You mean Melody and our unborn child," His finger points to my bump. "Right?"
A giggle escapes my lips. "You're just too cute, you know that? No, I mean Melody, our daughter, and our unborn children."
…
…
…
"Children…" All the color drains from his face as he stares blankly at me. Uh-oh… I think I shocked him too much.
"Honey?"
"As in… more than one?" His luminous eyes drift downwards to my bump. "As in child plural? As in, you are carrying another baby?"
I hold back a laugh at his behavior. "Yes." I softly rub my bump. "The doctor did an ultrasound and she said that we're having twins."
My husband stares at me with his jaw hanging slightly open blinking every so often. No words come from his mouth as I wave an hand in front of his face. Why does he look so pale?
"Baby?"
"Can you repeat what you said?" An audible whisper escapes his lips as I nod.
"We're having twins."
…
…
…
"How… why?" A faint whisper rings through my ears as I tilt my head sporting a concerned gaze. Is he mad that I didn't tell him sooner?
"Are you mad that I didn't tell you sooner? I would've but more pressing issues came up. I didn't get the chance to."
His silver and gold eyes radiate an emotion that I can't make out as a pair of arms envelopes me tightly. Huh… not the reaction I was expecting…
"Baby, are you okay?"
My husband hugs me tighter laying his head in the nape of my neck. "Astral?"
He mutters something inaudible as my fingers rub his back. "What was that?"
"From now on, you're going to tell me if any changes pop up okay?"
Changes?
"What do you mean?" I ask raising a brow.
"For example, and these are just examples but have you been feeling more fatigued and having random spurts of your chest hurting?"
What the… how does he know? I could've sworn I told no one about that.
"Yes… but how did you know that?"
I can feel his body tense as he leans back holding my shoulders firmly. "I have my ways in knowing."
Figured that was the case.
"Aside from that," A pair of hands grip mine. "Are you experiencing anything else?"
"Why do you ask?"
"I'm curious. After all," One of his hands rub my bump softly. "Carrying twins isn't like bearing a child."
Twice the work which mean twice the tiredness. My lips curve upwards. "Yes, but we made this. No matter how hard it gets, I'm going to bear through it."
His eyes shines with an unknown emotion yet again. Just what is that look in his eyes? Why does it look sad but not really sad… guilt? Is that it?
"It's settled,"
"What's settled?"
He pulls me into a warm embrace waving an arm to turn off the lights leaving on the orange lava lamp. "I've been focusing on work related things too much and neglecting you."
"You just realized that, my husband?" He gently lays me down on a pillow as he plops down beside me turning the ac on.
The gentle lull of the ac compliments his strong and firm arms as I shift to lay my head on his chest. "You know, sometimes I feel like I come second in your heart." I confessed as his eyes widened.
"What? Then who's first?"
"Isn't it obvious? Work." A sigh escapes my lips. "You've been focusing on it recently and I barely get to see you anymore."
That is if he was working or not. No no no. Don't think that way, Lily. He's not that type of man.
(Flash):
"You worry too much. Your husband said that he doesn't see her that way what's the most basic component in a relationship? It's trust."
(Flash)
Thanks for reminding me that fact, Brandon. I should treat him to lunch sometimes.
"Silly," I look up as a pair of soft lips plants a lingering kiss on mine. My eyes flutter shut as warmth spreads throughout my body. "How could my beautiful wife come in second?"
So you say…
"Darling, you should know that I value you more than work."
"Yet you spent all your time engrossed with it."
A nervous chuckle escapes his kissable lips as he wraps me tighter. "Ok, ok. I promise from now onwards, I will try to spend more time with you alright?"
"No more staying out late?"
"That depends on my schedule…"
My lips curve into a frown as I shift the other way. His eyes widen. "But for you, I'll try to not stay out late anymore."
Yes!
"You promise?" I turn back towards him as his fingers run through my hair.
"Yes, I'll try to be home by… 10 the latest."
"You better remember that."
"If I absolutely can't, I'll send you a text notifying that I'm going to be late."
"Alright. Make no mistake, it's not that I don't trust you or anything but…"
"I know, I know," His hands lays on top of mine touching my bump. "You're just worried."
A lump forms in my throat as the tears start to form. "I… I don't know why I'm like this." I said quietly. "I wasn't like this before, right?"
"Baby…"
"Since when did I become so suspicious of you? Why am I so insecure about our relationship?" Tears drip down my cheeks as a hand wipes them away. "You must hate me right?"
"Why would you-"
"Because of my erratic mood swings. Let's face it, I can't control my emotions. That lead to insecurity and suspicion towards you."
I can't cook, clean, or help him out with anything. All I know how to do is be suspicious of his actions. Maybe that's why he's staying out later than usual. He's tired of me. That's got to be it.
"You think I hate you because of that?" My husband shakes his head with a sigh and grabs my hand. "Tell me, what's this?"
He points to my left forth finger. "My engagement and wedding band."
He lifts up his left hand. "What's this?"
"Your… wedding ring."
"And what do they symbolize?"
"Unity and marriage…?" Why is he going with this?
"Exactly," His lips curve upwards. "Through unity and marriage, we created this." A cool hand lays on my bump. "You're the mother of our children, my love. You are my eternal wife. How can I ever hate you when I love you?"
You are my… eternal… wife… Eternal means forever, long lasting. He…
A hand cups his cheek as my vision blurs. "You're not just saying that, are you?"
"Since when do I ever lie about this?" He kisses the top of my head. "I love you, my beloved. If you don't believe me, I'll gladly say it everyday until you do."
I shuffle closer to him pushing my body against his. "I believe you but…"
"But what?"
I bat my eyelashes with a smile. "Can you say that phrase to me everyday?"
His hands pinch my cheeks as I pout. "Of course, my cute, beautiful, and adorable wife. What kind of husband would I be if I refused that?"
I giggle as I peck his lips snuggling closer. "A very bad one."
"Hey!"
"It's the truth, baby."
A yawn escapes my lips as I close my eyes for a minute. Looks like I misunderstood him. There's no way a guy like this will be in an affair. I refuse to believe it.
"Hey about last night, I'm-"
My eyes widen as he stares at his phone. His grip tightens on it as he rubs his eyes. "Why tomorrow?"
Tomorrow? What's happening tomorrow? And seriously?! Is he addicted to his phone or something?
"Love?" I call out gently as he bites his lip with a nervous expression. "Is something the matter?"
His eyes widen as he immediately shuts it off placing the on the bedside table. "Of course not. Why would you assume that?"
"Astral, don't lie to me anymore." I stare straight into his gold and silver eyes. "Please, tell me what's been going on?"
"I don't think you should be involved with this matter, honey. I can-"
"I'm your wife. I'm the official Princess Consort of this world. Isn't there a saying that goes that says a wife should help her husband?"
"Yes, but its too dangerous-"
"So what? I know self defense moves and-"
"Baby," The guy next to me reverts to his serious expression. "I'm not talking about that. I'm talking about schemes and manipulation tactics."
Schemes and manipulation tactics…?
I blink as he places a hand on his forehead. "Look, I know you want to help me out but the best thing you can do now is to take care of our children."
"But… can you at least tell me who or what you're dealing with?"
He nods. "Her name is Katherine."
My eyes widened. "Wait, the Katherine? The one you flirted at the cafe?!"
"I wasn't flirting with her. I was gathering information on her."
"Gathering information? What for?"
"I did some research about her and her family. Her family is a multi-millionaire leaning off of other royals and building alliances with other nations to gain power. Their daughter, Katherine, was once engaged to me many years ago."
Engaged…! Could that mean…
"The fact that she's appearing now…" I look at my husband as he nods confirming my fears.
"Is because of me? Yeah."
If it's because of him… His hands pat my back gently. "No need to worry, my love. I have no feelings for her."
"That's not what I'm afraid of, Astral." I cup the sides of his face. "If her main goal is you, you might be in danger."
A smile crosses my lips. "Don't worry, she likes me. I doubt that she would harm me in anyway.
Yes, but… I bite my lips as my husband tilts my chin up to meet his gold and silver eyes. "Baby, she's coming here tomorrow."
"Why would you-"
"Ever heard of the phrase keep your friends close and your enemies closer?"
"So, you're planning to…"
He lets out a sigh pecking my forehead. "Listen to me, tomorrow I need you to act like you hate me."
"W-What?!"
"Actually, I need you to act like that during the entire duration she's in the palace."
"But why?"
"I need to know more of her plan. I theorize that her family will do something to harm my parents and the kingdom but I don't know for sure yet."
My eyes widened. "You need to get close to her without raising suspicion?"
"Exactly. If you give me the cold shoulder for no apparent reason, one, this will make it seem like we are arguing and Katherine will swoop in and take the bait. Two is that I can get closer to her and investigate her family affairs."
That sounds like a great plan and all but… "How am I supposed to act that way when I'm not really mad at you?"
"Just ignore me. You don't have to say anything who me when she comes. Act like you don't care and go about your day as normal."
"But…"
"My darling, the only reason I'm telling this to you is so that you can know what's up ahead and stay safe." I stare into his eyes. "Remember, if she offers you something to eat, drink, or even touch, don't accept it."
A giggle escapes my lips. "Why's that? You're worried that it will be laced with poison?"
I doubt that she will go that far as to kill me.
My laughs died down as his expression stands unwavering. "Oh, you're serious?"
"Her family members has specific skill sets. Her skill is the ability to manipulate poison at her will."
The color drains from my face as I lay my hand on my bump. "That means…" She could try to harm me and my children…
A pair of arms envelopes me protectively. "Don't you worry, honey. Waltari will be by your side 24/7 as well as the guards so if anything happens, they'll be there."
They say that the palace is such a glamorous place filled with kings, queens, princes, and princesses but they fail to mention it's a highly dangerous place filled with manipulation.
"Has the palace always been so…"
"Scary?" A chuckle escapes him. "To put it simply, yes. Sometimes it's not so good to be in the spotlight. Rumor and gossip gets spread around quickly and it can ruin your reputation in a matter of days."
"Also, don't let anyone know about this, okay?" My husband said after a moment.
"Not even our parents?"
He shakes his head. "Especially not them. Mother and father are busy these days. Best to not bother them with this."
"But what if something happens and-"
A finger lands on my lips. "You see? This is why I didn't want to tell you. You have a habit in overthinking and worrying." He pecks my lips softly. "I dealt with this before, I'll be fine, my wife."
He has dealt with these things before? Really?
"You have?"
"Plenty. Remember the assassination attempts in childhood?"
Oh… yeah…
"Relax, beautiful. I'll be fine. What I'm worried about is you."
"Me?"
He nods. "In this palace, it's either harm others or have others harm you yet…"
"I don't want to harm others though…" I admitted as he rubs my shoulders.
"My point exactly. It might not happen a lot these days but during the past, it was a bloodbath built on lies and deceit."
A silence flows through us as the clock ticks. My mother told me this before but… to hear my husband say it… do the weak really not survive in the palace? Lying, deceit, manipulation… the things that I despise the most. Am I going to have to become such a person to survive? Not to mention, I'm bearing his children. If someone harms them then…
"Stop it, Lily." I shudder as his breath hits my ears.
"S-Stop what?"
"I know that look. You're thinking whether to become such a person, right?"
Nothing gets past him. I look down as he pecks my earlobe. "Am I correct?"
"Y-Yes."
"My beloved, you know how much I hate hypocrites and deceitful people. I dislike how individuals would try to act a certain way just to gain entry into the royal family." A murmur rings throughout my ear as his lips trail to my neck. "You're a straightforward person. That is one of the traits I value about you. You're different than the ladies I interact with who is always trying to seduce me for the to become my mistress and princess consort."
My body burns as I hold back a moan. His lips continue his journey down my neck nicking my collarbone a bit to make me gasp. A jolt of electricity flows up my spine. Oh lord.
"Don't you ever change that about yourself, my love. I love your confidence and assertive nature. Once you put your mind on something, you're not going to stop until you get it."
He… likes my personality?
(Flash):
"Look at her," A woman whispers as my ears perk up. "A girl yet all she knows how to do is sword fight."
"I know right?" The other woman sighs shaking her head. "This is all because her father is a general. A girl who knows how to fight is no girl at all."
"I'm worried about her. I mean, who would want to marry such a girl?"
"Tell me about it. I heard that she's friends with the Prince."
Her eyes widened with a gasp. "The Prince?"
She rolls her eyes. "What other prince do you know?"
"Perhaps she's trying to get close to His Highness to become the next Princess Consort?"
"Ay, do you want to get beheaded? You can't just say those things out loud."
"I'm serious though. Once she came into his life, have you noticed he started to smile and show his emotions more?"
She blinks. "Are you saying that His Highness might-"
"It's just a theory but no way His Highness will like someone like her."
"I guess you're right." She nods. "What guy would like such an unruly girl?"
(Flash)
"D-Don't you think I'm unruly?"
He leans back with a confused expression. "Now why would you think that?" A pair of lips kisses my forehead. "True, you were very… assertive last night."
My face heats up as I gulp. "I-I d-didn't know what I was thinking. I-I… um…" I can't believe that I did that! Was I insane?
A pair of hands cup my face. "Are you going to apologize, my dear?" His tongue clicks with a frown as I shudder. "Such a shame," His soft thumb runs over my lips as my mouth goes dry. "Because…" His woody scent assaults my nostrils as he leans closer. "You looked so sexyholding that whip, my lovely wife."
"S-Sexy?"
My heart thumps at a million miles per hour as his lips are inches from mine. His skin sends shivers and electrical currents down my spine. "Mhm. I was barely able to restrain myself last night."
"And when you caressed my wounds, I felt like I was going to-"
"D-Don't say a-anymore!" I squeak as my face grows crimson. H-How can he say that? Doesn't he have any shame?
A chuckle escapes his lips with a smirk. "What happened to that dominant side of you, my darling?"
"T-That was a one time t-thing." My breathing labors as his hands slip under and undo my nightgown.
Soft lips meet mine as a pair of arms slowly wrap around his neck deepening the kiss between us. The scent from his cologne mixes with his masculine scent to create an alluring and intoxicating aroma.
We part breathing heavily as he waves an arm closing the canopy curtains. "A-Astral…"
"Lily," My husband groans as his lips trail to my breasts.
"We… can't… ah!"
"Why not?"
My toes curls as he rubs my inner thigh. A hot and sticky liquid flows between my legs staining my panties. "B-Because o-our daughter is resting next to u-us!"
"But you want me, don't you, my lovely wife?"
"O-Of course b-but… oh…"
My body curls in his as a tongue flicks my nipple. I bite the inside of my cheek as I dig my nails in his back. Don't make any noises. Your daughter is just a few feet away!
"Baby," His hands spread my legs as I breath raggedly. "We can't. What if she sees again?"
"We can use the same excuse."
"Do you really think that she would fall for it two times in a row?" I raise a brow as he sighs.
"You started this, you know that?"
"What?!" How?
"If you just freed me yesterday night," His member pokes at my entrance as I gasp. "Then maybe I would have more self control."
"Y-You deserved it though." I stammer as my private aches in heat. Gosh darn it! My body squirms under him as my husband gives me a hungry look.
"I-I'm serious," My fingers grip the sheets tightly as my back arches. "We can't… ah!"
"Just," My eyes shut as he kisses my lips with a groan. "Be quiet."
You think that's easy to do? Really now?
"How can I keep quiet when you're driving me insane?" I whisper as I push him closer to me. His body curls into mine. Sweat drips from my forehead as a dizzy spell courses through me. How can he make me react like this?
"A-Astral,"
A tongue licks my clit as jolts of electrical currents flow through my body. I gasp as I dig my nails into his back. "Sh, you don't want our daughter to wake, do you?"
That's the last thing I want.
I bite the inside of my cheek as my private burns from the inside out. I spread my legs wider shutting eyes. My breathing labors as a hot groan escapes my husband.
"F-Fill me already," I moan wrapping my legs around his waist. "S-Stop t-teasing!"
"Look at how lewd you are, my love." He backs away as I squirm on the bed in heat. Why is he being like this?! "You're so wet for me, honey."
"Ok, yes, I'm lewd." I admitted as my face heats up. "Now, can you please-"
"Fill you?" My husband's eyes flash dangerously as I shudder. "Your wish is my-"
A high pitched cry rings out as we turn to the bassinet near the edge of the bed. Ah, come on seriously?!
"First it was Melody, now it's Olivia?" The man on top of me groans with a disgruntled tone.
That look…
"Baby," I wrap my arms around his neck pulling him closer. "You're not going to leave in the middle of this, right?" I bat my eyelashes as he sighs.
"Honey, she's crying."
My lips form a pout as I furrow my brows. "Seriously? What is up with these kids? They pick the most inopportune times to interrupt."
He chuckles pecking my lips. "That's what happens when you have kids around."
Got that right. They unknowingly interrupt everything.
Her cries grow louder as my daughter shifts in her sleep covering her ears with her palms. My husband sighs as he crawls towards the bassinet.
"Olivia," He coos poking her nose as he rocks her gently. "What do you want this time?"
"Hm?" He raises a brow as the baby cries even more squirming in his arms. "Uh… are you hungry?" A panicked expression crosses his face as he summons up an empty milk bottle.
"Looks like there's no more milk." I point out as her wails become louder.
"Ok, ok, relax." My husband holds her closer. "I'll get you some milk from the kitchen."
"Darling, I'll be-ow!"
My eyes widen as he hisses. "Are you…" I trail off as the baby sucks on his nipple aggressively. "Hahahahahahaha!"
She thinks… she thinks that… hahahahaha! I wipe a tear from my eyes as my stomach knots. My breathing labors as he sighs.
"Are you done?"
"Hahahahaha!" I gulp as I try to steady my breathing. "Phew, oh wow. Sorry, sorry, didn't mean to laugh but she thought… hahahahaha!"
"Be back later," He waves an arm to clothe himself properly and walks out the door.
Oh my gosh. I can't believe that she thought… hahahahaha!
Astral's POV:
"Stop biting me." I bounce her up and down as I descend the stairs. Great. I never knew taking care of a baby could be so much work. No wonder her mother sought me to be her caretaker for awhile.
Her cries increases in volume as one of the maids walk up to me with a startled expression. "Your Highness, is everything alright?"
"Not really." I materialize up her empty bottle. "Can you do me a favor and pour milk until it reaches this line?" I hand her the bottle patting the girl in my arms. "As you can see, I have my hands full."
"Ah, of course, Your Highness." She hurried to the kitchen as I yawn. Oh man, if this keeps up, I won't get a decent night sleep.
"I'm assuming she's hungry?" A famine voice calls out as a woman wearing tank top and shorts enters my field of vision.
"Star, what are you doing up so late?"
"Couldn't sleep." Her green eyes drift towards the squirming baby in my arms. "And I guess that it's the same for you as well."
"Yup." A sigh escapes my lips. "Ran out of milk."
My friend giggles with a head shake. "How are things between you and your wife? I bet she's still angry?"
"Do you even need to ask?" A smile crosses my lips. "She's still convinced that this child is mine and another woman." Best to not let her know right now or it might interfere with my plan.
"Well," She places her hands on her hips. "Is it?"
"What?!" My eyes widened. "You actually believe that I had an affair?"
"Of course not," A hand waves dismissively at my statement. "But I'm curious, where did she come from?"
"She came from a woman." I pause after a minute. "As for how, just use your imagination."
She rolls her eyes as her hand opens the fridge. "Hm…"
"You're hungry?"
"Eh, a bit." She digs through the fridge as her eyes light up. "Found it."
"Want some?" A hand hands me a snickers bar as she closes the fridge.
"You eat chocolate when you're hungry?"
A grin surfaces. "I said I'm a bit hungry and what's wrong with chocolate? Fun fact, if a girl is unhappy, give her some chocolates. It will cheer her right up."
Huh… I raise a brow at the bar of chocolate in my hands. "Are you sure?"
"Yup but I guess it depends if the person you're thinking about has a sweet tooth or not."
If I remember correctly, she has a sweet tooth. I think…
My friend bites off a piece of chocolate with a satisfied expression. "Mmmm! That's so good."
"Want some?"
"Sure," She holds it as she pulls off the wrapper lower.
"Here." I bite off a chunk of it and chews it slowly. "How is it?"
Wow… that is really good.
"Got to admit. Chocolate is the way to go."
"I know right?" My friend eagerly bites off another piece. "I'm telling you, if you want to apologize, give her chocolates."
Apologize? "What do I have to apologize for?"
"You know, just saying that's all." She shrugs as the girl in my arms starts to cry again.
"Livi," I bounce her up and down. "I know you're hungry but hang on, alright?"
"You're so cute, sweetie!" My friend coos tickling her stomach making her laugh. So this baby has a weakness. I can exploit that for later use. "I know, we can give her chocolate!"
A laugh escapes my lips. "How I wish we could but she's too younger for chocolate."
Her hand pats her on the head with a smile. "Behave for your father."
Father?!
"Must you tease me?" I let out an exasperated sigh as she leans back. "You know that I'm not her father."
"That doesn't matter. You're her caretaker, right?"
"Yes but-"
"Exactly. Even though you're not her biological father, you're still taking care of her."
"I'm her guardian for the time being." I said after a moment.
"Yeah, yeah, alright." She waves a hand dismissively as a flicker of gold catches my eyes. What is… that?
The object appears to be a key with golden curves and a ring on top, allowing it to be worn around her neck. It also has a green gem at the top but the only thing is that it seemed to be half of it.
This… what… how does she have it?
"Astral?" I approach her as she backs away towards the table. "What are you doing?"
The Emperor's key… why does she have it? Didn't my mom say the other half was lost somewhere? Why does she have it if all people?
My feet approaches her as she gulps. "Hey," Her arms covers her chest. "Why are you looking at me like that?"
(Pulse)
(Flash):
"Wear this," A white light shines as as two children cover their eyes.
Two halves of the key flies to the neck of each wearer. The bright white light dies down to reveal a woman with stunning silver eyes. Her angelic stature mesmerized the children as a smile crosses her lips.
"This is so pretty!" The girl fiddles with it as she tilts her head. Her green eyes stare at it with curiosity as she glances to her right.
The boy with pale blue hair and mismatched eyes picks it from his neck with an emotionless expression. "What is this supposed to do?"
"It will protect you." With a wave of her hand, a red string forms between the boy and girl connecting their ankles together. "If you get separated, you will always find the way back to each other."
(Flash)
I hiss shutting my eyes tightly. What on Astral World was that?! Was that… me? And that green eyed girl… she couldn't possibly be…
"Are… you okay?" A concerned voice rings through my ears as a hand touches my arm.
"I'm fine." I wince as she guides me to one of the chairs.
"What's wrong?"
"No need to worry." My finger rubs my temple. "A dizzy spell. It will go away in a minute."
My eyes open to meet her emerald green eyes as they drift down towards her necklace. Should I ask where she got it? There is no way that she is… I refuse! Let's not jump to that conclusion. Perhaps she found it and picked it up somewhere. Yeah! That could be the case!
"I'm just wondering but-"
"Your Highness," The maid comes back with the milk in hand.
"Ah, thank you very much." I plop the bottle into the girl's mouth as she starts to giggle.
"Don't laugh, Liv." I summon up a box of tissues as my friend carefully wipe the milk stains from her cheek. "You're getting milk everywhere."
"You're such a messy eater." She coos as I glance at her necklace. A glint of gold flashes as I shake my head rapidly. No. I must be overthinking things. The legend of the Emperor's Key… that is just a legend. Besides, My friend stares in awe at the baby. She's just a friend and I have a family.
"Oh," She leans back tucking a strand of white hair behind her ear. "What were you about to ask me?"
A smile crosses my lips. "It was nothing. Don't worry about it, Star."
Her eyebrow raises in suspicion as she shrugs with a sigh. "You know, after I spent all of this time with you, I can say confidently that you," She places both hands firmly on my shoulders. "Are a mystery."
A mystery you say?
My lips curve into a smirk. "How intriguing of you to say that."