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Ophelia wakes up on her birthday, her heart heavy with a sense of indifference. The morning light peeks through the curtains, casting a soft glow on her unenthused expression. She lies there, her thoughts a tangle of conflicting emotions, unable to summon any excitement. As the minutes tick by, she contemplates the passing years and the bad memories that seem to accompany them.
The room is enveloped in a quiet stillness, broken only by the gentle rustling of sheets as she shifts her position. She gazes out the window, the world beyond seemingly unaware of her lackluster celebration. The day stretches ahead, a canvas awaiting a splash of color, yet she remains unmoved, her spirit unwilling to dance to the tune of obligatory celebration. It’s not as though she isn’t looking forward to spending the day with her new family but any joy from that is ruined by the prospect of her parents coming.
With a sigh, she finally pushes herself to sit up, her movements slow and deliberate. She rolls out of bed and goes to get ready for the day. Today she’ll have to wear something a little nicer than usual but perhaps it’ll be good to get all dolled up. Lately she’s been going more for comfort so a chance of pace might be nice.
By now, Kaillas would be in the training yard, getting an exercise and practicing with the gaurd. Normally. But today was a special day. His wife's birthday. And while he knew she wasn't looking forward to it, he would turn that around. He would spoil her every year, more than he already did. After this year, she would be looking forward for her birthday every year.
He had already planned exactly how this day was going to go, even with the presence of her parents. No one would give her any presents until after they had left. He wouldn't risk her parents ruining that experience for her again. So they would be given on a later date and he woukd explain that to her.
He hadn't been in the room when she had awoken. He had thought he would have made it back before she had woken up and been able to have the pleasure of slowly waking her up. But he had been overseeing the cooks and making sure everything was perfect. And by the time he had approved everything and carried it upstairs on a tray, she was already up.
Kaillas hoped she wasn't too disappointed when she woke up and he wasn't there. In his defense, he hadn't prepared for that. As he opened the door to their bedroom and walked in carrying a large tray, he frowned as he saw her up and awake. "What are you doing, darling? You're supposed to be in bed."
Ophelia stands before her mirror, morning sunlight streaming through the window, as she carefully selects a delicate gown from her wardrobe. The fabric, a soft pastel blue, feels cool to the touch as she drapes it over her lithe form. Her fingers glide over the intricate lace trim that adorns the neckline, the feeling one of comfort. The gown's cinched waist accentuates her slender figure as she fastens the buttons at the back.
With the gown in place, she turns her attention to her hair. Her nimble fingers deftly weave strands into a loose, artful braid that falls gracefully over her shoulder. She adorns her ears with delicate silver earrings. The final touch comes in the form of a spritz of her favorite perfume, a floral scent that lingers softly in the air. She sighs heavily as she gazes at her reflection in the mirror.
She had expected to wake up in Kaillas arms but it seems as though he has decided to wake up early and go about his regular training routine. That’s alright. She may be a little disappointed but she can’t blame him for wanting to stick to his schedule. Before she can get too lost in her thoughts, the bedroom door opens and her husband steps inside. She turns to face him, surprised to see the frown on his face.
“I couldn’t sleep,” She admits lightly, a bit sheepish about this. The thought of her parents coming had her tossing and turning all night. The nerves and the anticipation is what woke her up. She steps over to him and presses a light kiss to his cheek. “Good morning.” The food smells and looks amazing but her focus is on her husband.
(My bf is putting our coffee table together and I'm like, this is my Ken XD)
She was dressed, Kaillas noticed. She looked beautiful as always, but she was always beautiful. But he could tell she was catering to her parents arrival with gown she had chosen. It saddened him that even now that she was out if his clutches she still felt the need to please him. Well, he would make sure they didn't upset her.
He responded to her kiss as she approached him thoigh he couldn't touch her with the tray in his hands. "I'm sorry darling. I should have been here." And he should have been when she woke but he would have to work with this. "I've been in the kitchen helping prepare your breakfast." And helping, he had really made everything worse because nothing had been good enough for his wife. Hence the delay.
"Go climb into bed and met me give you a proper breakfast in bed." He dipped his head to kiss her chastely before nodding her towards their enormously large bed.
(Awww what a helpful Ken XD)
While her appearance for today is to please her parents, she doesn’t want to admit to it. She knows that they shouldn’t affect her life like this but they do. Today needs to go perfectly. She doesn’t want them to be able to complain about a single time during their stay here. She doesn’t know what she cares but she does. This is very important to her, though she does wish that they weren’t coming at all.
“You don’t need to apologize, Kaillas,” She assures him with a light smile. It’s incredibly sweet that he thought to prepare breakfast for her. Though she’s almost certain that the chefs did the work while he was underfoot. The thought is still endearing and greatly appreciated. “Thank you for making me breakfast. Everything looks wonderful.” Even if he had just been off training, she wouldn’t have been upset. There’s no need for him to disturb his routine for her.
She kisses him back lightly and quickly before making her way to the bed. “Breakfast in bed, huh? Fancy,” She teases him, settling herself in a sit-up position against a small mountain of pillows.
"Of course I need to apologize. I wanted to be here to wake you up. I would have been here sooner had I known you would wake earlier." Kaillas felt terrible. He didn't know what she had thought when she had woken up without him. Like disappointment and sadness. That was the exact thing he was trying to avoid.
He waited until she was laying down on the bed before walking over to her. He set the tray down over her lap, the little legs on either side keeping it from balancing solely on her legs. That was a recipe for disaster. "You do deserve nothing less for your special day, darling." With the tray securely on her lap, his hands were free to touch her. He gripped her her cheeks and kissed her hard. "Happy birthday, my darling girl."
He separated from her only to round the other side of the bed and climb in beside her. Using one hand, he pulled his shirt over his head and chucked it to the side. He had put on the barest of acceptable clothing while he had been out in the kitchens. His shoes were kicked off and he was fully able to cuddle up in bed. He pulled the lid off the plate and revealed a breakfast that was enough to send anyone into a sugar coma.
“Kallias, it’s really alright. You had no idea when I was going to wake up,” Ophelia points out with a light laugh. Granted, she had been a bit disappointed to wake up alone but he’s already more than made up for it and she’s only seen him for about two minutes later. While she appreciates that he wanted to be there when she woke up, she’s more than happy to just be in his presence now.
She stays still whilst he gets the tray set up on her lap. Breakfast in bed is a lovely idea but she does worries a little about how messy it will turn out to be. Immediately, she’s distracted as he presses her lips against hers. She doesn’t hesitate to kiss him back deeply. The cherry on top is that she gets to watch as he yanks off his shirt and joins her in bed. “Thank you.” She sincerely appreciates his sweet birthday wishes.
The aroma of freshly baked pastries and sweet delights wafts through the air, enticing her senses. Her gaze dances across the assortment of sugary breakfast treats, each one more tempting than the last. Fluffy pancakes adorned with a drizzle of golden maple syrup. Glazed donuts glistening in the morning light. Freshly sliced strawberries nestled beside a dollop of whipped cream. A delighted laugh escapes her lips, a mix of surprise and sheer joy. She can hardly believe her eyes! “I have never found you sexier than I do right now.”
Kaillas curled up by her side, wrapping one arm around her shoulders. As much as he wanted to grab her and kiss her deliriously, he had the day planned and there wasn't much room for frolicking just yet. Besides, he had given her more than enough last night. Which was also part of the reason he was surprised she was up so early. But he knew the worry was getting to her and causing her anxiety.
He threw his head back in a laugh, narrowly missing the headboard. "And as much as I would love to see how sexy you think I am, we do have a busy day today so it will have to wait." He had plans to worship her that night when it was just the two of them. But for now, he was going to spoil her. "Nothing but sweets for you today, my darling."
He had eaten a little in the kitchen but not much. He had been stressing too much over her breakfast to be bake to fill his stomach. But he found he wasn't very hungry either. It was the anticipation or showing her everything he had done for her. Or the nerves. He chose the first and ignored the second. He would steal a bite or two if her breakfast and that would be enough for him.
Ophelia leans into Kaillas's embrace, feeling the warmth of his arm around her shoulders. She lets out a soft chuckle at his playful remark, her worry momentarily eased by his laughter. She’s glad that he got a kick out of that. Usually she doesn’t say such things out of the blue so she’s certain that it must have caught him off guard. Luckily, his head misses the headboard.
Her gaze shifts to the enticing spread of sweet breakfast treats before them, her mouth watering at the sight. "Well, I must admit, you certainly know the way to my heart," she teases, a delighted smile gracing her lips. She reaches for a fork and playfully nudges his side. "But don't think I won't be sharing these delights with you.“
Takinf a delicate bite of a flaky pastry, she savors the combination of flavors dancing on her taste buds. As she chews, she looks to Kaillas, a soft fondness evident in her eyes. “What all do you have planned today?” She’ll appreciate whatever he’s got put together but she worries that it’ll be something crazy.
"Of course I know the way," Kaillas murmured. "You're my wife. I know you better than anyone." Because it was clear that her parents did not. It would be alright. He would love her more than they ever had. Ever could. He would show her what it felt like to be loved and taken care of. He would give her power and rule over his country. He would do right by Opehlia. He swore it.
He only kissed the side of her head. "Eat it all if you wish, my darling. It's all for you on your special day. But just remember that there is more where that came from. Make sure you save some room for your other desserts, I mean meals." Because he planned for her to eat nothing but sweets today. To hell what her parents thought. It was her birthday. She was allowed to indulge herself from time to time.
"Oh, the usual," he said, "A bard to follow you wherever you go and sing to all day. A parade every hour on the hour to announce your birthday. Doves will be released at every entrance as you walk passed them." He winked at her, letting her know he was clearly teasing.
Ophelia gazes at Kaillas with a mixture of affection and amusement, her lips curving into a soft smile. She is grateful for his unwavering support and how determined he is to help her find her place. As he kisses her head, she leans into his touch, feeling a warmth and comfort she had never known before. Her parents' lack of understanding and love is starting to seem insignificant now, overshadowed by the devotion she finds in Kaillas.
With a playful glint in her eyes, she takes another delicate bite of the decadent dessert, savoring the flavors that danced on her taste buds. She chuckles at his insistence on indulgence, nodding in agreement. "You know just how to make a girl feel special, don't you?" she teases, her voice laced with genuine affection. She’s never had a full day of sweet treats before so she’s excited to see what all he’s come up with.
Listening to Kaillas describe his imaginative plans for her birthday, her eyes briefly widen in horror. Much to her relief, she quickly realizes that he’s merely messing with her. “A bard, parades, and doves, huh?" she muses, a twinkle in her eyes. "Well, I suppose a little extravagance wouldn’t hurt,” She jokes right back.
Kaillas reached around her back and pulled it out of its braid, letting the waves fall around her shoulders. He nuzzled her hair, breathing in her scent and faint smell of her shampoo. "I know how to make you feel special." Because she wasn't just any girl. She was his wife and he loved her. He loved her. He would make her feel special everyday.
It was everything to contain his laugh at the horro etched on her face at first. He had been joking. He would never go that far. But he still pulled out the stops for her and planned a wonderful day. "I haven't gone that far but I still have things planned. You're not allowed to complain or say no. Not when you'll enjoy everything I've got planned."
The breakfast was only the start of it. He was spending the whole day by her side. She was his main focus and he'd might just kill anyone that tried to ruin it. Her parents included. "The girls and I will give you your presents tomorrow, when you're parents aren't here. We all decided it would be best to make sure they weren't here to influence any negative feelings towards it." He didn't want her to think they hadn't gotten her anything.
Ophelia gives him an amused look when he frees her hair from the braid. “My honestly don’t know why I ever bother trying to put my hair up,” She says with a laugh, obviously just joking with him. The braid didn’t take her very long to do and having her hair down makes him happy so she doesn’t mind. She reaches over and nuzzles his cheek affectionately.
“I’m not allowed to complain or say no? I feel like I should be scared.” She’s sure that whatever he has will be wonderful but she does wonder if he’s gone over the top. She doesn’t need anything crazy. It’ll just be nice to spend the day with the people she loves. “I’m looking forward to seeing everything that you have planned.”
The mention of her parents dampens her mood ever so slightly. She wishes that they weren’t coming but she knows that she doesn’t have a choice in the matter. “That’s very thoughtful of you, thank you.” She appreciates that he’s trying to give her a good time without them being involved. It means a lot to her.
Finishing her breakfast, she sits up a bit more. “What’s first?” She asks him with a smile, figuring they should get started.
Kaillas was very happy with himself as her hair was freed from its braid. He ran his fingers through the strands, observing the contrast of her blonde hair on his tanned hands. He caught her lips in a quick kiss, unable to keep himself from doing so. He knew she harbored many negative feelings towards her birthday and he was going to do everything in his power to show her just what her birthday's should be.
"I promise it's nothing bad." He couldn't promise that he hadn't gone overboard but it wasn't anything she wouldn't enjoy. "But it's all a surprise and you'll just have to wait and see to find out." No way would he ruin any of it. Especially when some of it was still getting set up.
He saw the damper it gave her as her parent were mentioned. He touched her chin and turned her head to him. "Listen to me, you are not alone anymore. You do not have to put up with them." Then he gripped her chin before she could even think of looking away. "We will deal with them together. You are my wife. I will always be by your side and I will always defend you. I won't let them ruin anything. I promise."
He stood up from the bed as she finished. He held out his hand for her to take. "Come, it's just in the other room."
Ophelia sighs softly at the feeling of his fingers running through his hair. She absolutely adores it when he does that. It seems to always help her to relax, not matter what she’s tressing about. She kisses him back lightly, always happy to let him steal a few kisses.
“I’m sure that I’ll love whatever it is.” She’s definitely worried that he’s gone overboard. In fact, she’s convinced of it. While she doubts that it’s anything bad, she is wondering just how crazy some of these surprises are. But Kaillas seems confident that she’s going to enjoy everything and she’s inclined to believe him. Her husband knows her better than anyone so she trusts his ability to plan things to her enjoyment.
She gazes at him steadily when he captures her chin, forcing her to look at him. He knows her too well. She would be averting her gaze if given the chance. “Thank you,” She says softly, appreciating how determined he is to make today a good day for her. There’s a snowball’s chance in hell that she lets him interact with her parents, though. Other than basic pleasant introductions, she doesn’t want him to have to deal with him. It’s bound to end poorly.
She takes his hand she gets out of bed. Though a little wary about all of this, she has to admit that she’s curious. “Lead the way, darling.”
There wasn't a chance in hell that Kaillas was leaving her side today. Especially with the arrival of her parents. If they wanted to speak to her, they could speak to the both of them. He wouldn't give them a chance to insult his wife. Because he wouldn't accept any of that. One wrong wrong and he'd have them thrown out of court.
He gripped her hand as she took it and brought it up to his lips to kiss the knuckles. His eyes were twinkling with something like happiness. He had spent a long time planning this and only hoped she liked it. Even if he had gone. Little overboard.
Her first surprise wasn't far off. In fact, it was just the next room over, in their sitting room. Only it had been transformed. There were banners and balloons and confetti everywhere. He had doubted she would have wanted the entire palace decorated for her birthday so their room would have to do. There was a table with a few presents on it. None of them from him. They wouldn't fit in here. He would have had her open them up now of his sisters weren't busy setting up the rest of the surprises for him.
Ophelia feels an overwhelming sense of comfort as Kaillas's reassuring grip encloses her hand. His unwavering support meant the world to her, especially with her parents' arrival, which is fiving her a strong degree of tension. She knows Kaillas is a protective and fiercely devoted partner, ready to stand by her side through thick and thin. His tender kiss on her knuckles sent a delightful shiver down her spine, a simple gesture that speaks volumes of his affection.
Walking into the transformed sitting room, she is left speechless. The decorations are a riot of colors and joy, reflecting the effort has put into making her birthday memorable. She chuckles softly, shaking her head in disbelief. "You really went all out, didn't you?" she said, her voice filled with genuine appreciation and relief that it’s only one room that’s decorated. As her eyes land on the table with the presents, she’s not sure what to think. The fact that they arent from Kaillas does make her curious.
With a heartfelt smile, she turns back to her husband. “Thank you, Kallias.” She greatly appreciates how much time and effort he has put into this. She’s never had a proper birthday before so this is all so new and unusual to her. Admittedly, she’s starting to warm up to it a bit.
(I just found out that Kaillas is not pronounced like Kay-las like I thought but indeed Kai-las. 🤦♀️)
Kaillas watched as disbelief and underlying joy appeared on her face. He was grinning like an idiot. Right here, beside her, was not a king but a young man trying ti oekase the love of his life. Even if that meant going overboard and doing childish things to make her birthday memorable.
"I would do anything for you, my darling. Even if that means going all out for your birthday." He tugged her close to him, wrapped his arms around her waist. "Now everytime you come to our room, you'll have to walk through here first and remember all the people that love you that went into the effort of trying to make your birthday special." It hadn't been him who had done the room, but the staff and his sisters. They had been the ones to come up with the idea themselves. They loved Ophelia and wanted to do something nice for her.
"Now you stay here and enjoy the room. Im going to get changed really quick. Just leave the presents alone, no peeking." He winked at her and kissed the top of her head. Then he let her go and disappeared back into the bedroom to change.
(I have definitely been pronouncing that wrong then 😬 )
The shock is almost overwhelming. No one has ever done anything like this for her before. Her eyes trace the meticulous details in the room, and a soft chuckle escapes her lips at the sight of Kaillas grinning like a child. As he draws her close, she nestles into his embrace, feeling the genuine affection radiating from him.
Something tells her that this is just the beginning of a very crazy day so she’s both excited and concerned to see what all had been planned. There’s no doubt in her mind that her husband and her sisters have gone overboard. It would be frustrating if it weren’t so sweet and endearing.
With a soft smile, she gazes around the room once more, her heart touched by the thoughtfulness of Kaillas, his sisters, and makes staff. The sight of their collective effort made her feel cherished and loved, a feeling she holds close to her heart. As he leaves to change, she nods, her playful demeanor resurfacing. "Don't worry, I won't peek," she calls after him, a mischievous glint in her eyes. As he disappears into the ither room, she sinks into the ambiance of the room, appreciating the love that envelopes her in this moment.
(Glad I'm not the only one then 😂)
Kaillas gave her one more look before leaving her to go back to their bedroom. He changed quickly into an outfit fit for a king. It was simple yet extravagant. It was sleek black. He had an jacket on with gold clasps that started at his sternum down to his stomach. There was gold embroidery along them hems of the jacket, showing his wealth. He was wealthier and more powerful than her parents and he was going to remind them of that.
He came back into the bedroom though not empty handed. In his hands were two crowns. One for him and one for her. Fit for king and queen. Because that was what they were. He wouldn't let anyone forget it. He placed the gold tiara on her head her head before placing his own gold crown on top of his head. They were simple yet powerful. And that was all they needed. "There, now we're ready."
He dipped his head to kiss her once. Then he whispered in her ear, "I'm going to fuck you with you wearing that crown. Only that crown." Then he straightened as if he hadn't said anything so scandalous and offered her his arm to take. "Ready my dear?"
(Sorry! My sister is in the process of moving and it’s been insane helping her lol)
Ophelia's eyes sweep across the room, a sympathy of colors and decorations assembled in honor of her birthday. Soft, warm candlelight dances across glistening table settings, casting a gentle glow upon the other decorations. The air is filled with the enchanting aroma of her favorite flowers, their vibrant petals arranged meticulously in elegant vases. She appreciates just how much effort and thought was put into decorating for her.
Turning to look as he reenters the room. She smiles as she takes in what he’s now wearing, his sleek black attire exuding an air of regal authority. The glint of gold clasps and intricate embroidery along his jacket speak volumes about his status, a tangible testament to his wealth and power. It will serve as a stark reminder to her parents. Perhaps that’s a good thing. They need to be taken down a peg or two.
She watches as he approaches, carrying in his hands two magnificent crowns that gleam with regal splendor. The weight of responsibility and authority settles upon her shoulders as he carefully places the gold tiara upon her head. Her fingers brush against the intricate detailing, watching as he adorns his own head with a matching crown.
“You look amazing,” She comments softly as she kisses him back lightly. Her faces flushes into a brilliant shade of red at his dirty comment. Holding tightly onto his arm, her nails dig lightly into his skin. “I look forward to it.”
(I'm sorry. I meant to respond but a bunch of shit happened and long story short I might end up having to give up my cat bc he's getting worse and we can't handle it financially.)
Kaillas knew he had gone a bit overboard but seeing her reaction meant that it was all worth it. And he had a few surprises planned throughout the day. Nothing as much as this. Or at least not so obviously so. Though with that crown adorning her head, he was half tempted to throw out all the plans he had for the day and lock them in their room until dawn.
They hadn't had much time to each other. Not alone at least. They had both been busy with meetings. He had started introducing her to his court the proper way and things were beginning to turn for the better. Slight improvement was still improvement. But their days were long and their nights short. And half the time he ended up staying with one of his sisters or they came in with the couple, needing that reassurance and safety.
"Tonight, darling. Don't think you're getting out of it." He kissed the top of her head before walking her out of their room. "The gardens is our first stop." Katya had been working with him on this for a little bit
(Oh my god I’m so sorry to hear that. That’s so terrible!)
Ophelia's heart swells as she looks up at Kaillas, her eyes reflecting delight. The grand gesture he has orchestrated is overwhelming, but the sparkle in her eyes shows her appreciation for his efforts. No one has ever done anything like this for her before. She can't help but feel a flutter of excitement at the thought of the surprises he has planned for the day, wondering what other enchanting moments await her.
In the midst of their busy lives, finding moments of solitude is a rarity. The weight of their responsibilities keeps them occupied, making every stolen instant together all the more precious. She is slowly starting to grow fond of his court, some people more than others, feeling a sense of belonging as he introduces her to his world. The promise of a night dedicated to just the two of them fills her with anticipation.
As he whispers those words, her lips curl into a playful smile, her heart skipping a beat at the mention of their night ahead. She allows herself to be guided out of their room, her hand finding its place in his. The mention of the gardens intrigues her, and knowing that Katya has been involved in the planning only adds to her curiosity. With a gentle squeeze of his hand, she walks beside him, ready to embrace the evening that lies ahead.