forum Royal Affairs (O/O Closed)

Started May 08, 2023 by @LolaBug

tune

(Uhh, I think not. Hehe Ima let it surprise you)

Kaillas couldn't be happier with his marriage and the little family he had around him. He had never expected to find love in this arrangement. He had hoped, at best, that they could be cordial and perhaps even friends and that would be it. But to have found love was so rare and precious in arranged marriages. He couldn't fathom why her parents wouldn't want her to be happy. Why they wouldn't be proud that she had found someone who was devoted to her. And he knew in that instant, that he would never treat his children like that. His daughters, whom he prayed he had, would be free to choose who they wanted to marry. He would support them every step of the way. He would always be there for them, even when they eventually moved away. He would never be like her parents.

He rubbed his thumb against the side of her knee, providing a soothing touch. It was the smallest touch that he allowed himself surrounded by others but it was a touch he desperately needed. At this point, it was just about the only thing keeping him from lunging across the table and grabbing her parents by the shoulders and just shaking them, asking them why.

Ambrose sipped at his glass, his expression remaining cool and collected. "That is good to hear." Honestly, he couldn't care less about what was happening in their kingdom. But, having married off their daughter and started new trades, unfortunately, it did mean they needed to keep track of how their kingdom was prospering.

(Absolute torture! XD Also, Kaillas is absolutely precious and would make such a good girl dad)

Ophelia feels a sense of pride and contentment wash over her as she sits beside Kaillas, his hand providing a reassuring presence on her knee. She may be facing her parents' disapproval, but she has also found the love and support she had never expected in her arranged marriage. Everyone has heard the horror stories of what most arranged marriages turn out to be. She was convinced that hers would be the same and instead she found someone who loves her deeply and whom she loves in return.

As she listens to her parents' cool responses, a deep sadness wells up within her. She had hoped that this dinner could be a chance to bridge the gap between them, to mend the fractured relationship that had plagued their family for years. But their indifference only reinforces her decision to choose love over their expectations. The rest of the dinner passes in strained silence, and she can't help but feel a pang of regret that her parents cannot see the happiness she has found in her marriage.

As Ambrose acknowledges their response, she feels a sense of detachment from her parents. They speak of trivial matters, matters that held no importance in the grand scheme of things, while the chasm between them grew wider.

Throughout the dinner, they barely acknowledge her presence, their attention focused on their own conversation, which revolves around matters of state and palace affairs. Their disinterest in their daughter is painfully evident, and it weighs heavily on Ophelia's heart. She knows that their only interest in her is whether or not there is new life growing in her womb.

(Hehehe. He would. Not that he wouldn't love a boy either but he wants a girl XD)

Kaillas was just about half ready to pull the plug and end it now. Send her parents away so they could be in peace. He hated how much they affected his Ophelia. It was more than just irritating. His jaw was clenched and he chewed a little more forcefully than necessary. he was also on his third glass of wine now, not caring how her parents perceived that. He wasn't anywhere near being intoxicated with his high tolerance, but it was enough to chip away at the edge and at least provide him with some calmness.

As much as he would love to throw them out, and the pleasure it would give him, he unfortunately could not. His wife had asked him not to so he would behave. For now, that was. If only her parents knew that the only thing saving them right now was their daughter. In fact, she was the only reason they were allowed to step foot in his kingdom. He would have sent them right away as soon as they had reached the border. But for her, he was willing to be civilized. But that was as far as he was willing to go.

Ambrose attempted to make small talk a few other times during their dinner but they mostly stayed quiet. A few of his councilmen spoke amongst themselves and his sisters would whisper things to each other now and then. But overall, it was a quiet dinner. And something that Kaillas wasn't used too. It was always loud, whether he was just dining with his sisters or the entire court. It was never this quiet. Just one more thing her parents were disrupting here.

Once the last course was severed, Kaillas waited perhaps less than a reasonable amount of time before announcing that this dinner was over and standing. He held his hand out for Ophelia. "Come, darling, we have a ball to prepare for." The smile he gave her was nothing short of love for her, despite his growing irritation. He could never be mad at her. Not for this.

(When/if they have a kid, it will definitely be a girl XD)

Ophelia can feel the tension in the air as the dinner drags on, and she is keenly aware of Kaillas's growing frustration. She watches him, her heart aching with understanding. It infuriates her that her parents have the power to affect him this way, to disrupt the peace of their life together. She wishes she could shield him from their indifference, but she knows it's a battle they must endure together, for now. As the dinner continues, she listens to the strained conversations around the table, the forced pleasantries, and the stifled tension. She longs for a moment of genuine connection, for her parents to see the love and happiness she has found with Kaillas. But their stubbornness remains an insurmountable wall.

When Kaillas finally announces the end of the dinner, her heart soars with relief. She takes his hand, her fingers lacing with his as she rises from her seat. His smile, filled with love despite his irritation, reassures her that they are in this together. She knows that she is lucky to have him by her side, and she is determined to make the most of their time at the ball. "Thank you for enduring this, my darling," she whispers to Kaillas, her gratitude clear in her eyes. She can't wait to leave this stifling atmosphere behind and embrace the night ahead, where their love can shine brightly, undiminished by her parents' indifference.

King William and Queen Charlotte, oblivious to the turmoil brewing within Kaillas, maintain their aloof demeanor throughout the dinner. The wine that Kaillas consumes in response to their presence does not go unnoticed, but they remain unmoved by his growing agitation. In their eyes, this dinner is a formality, a mere obligation to be fulfilled. As Ambrose attempts to bridge the gap with small talk, they respond with disinterest, their attention more focused on their own whispered conversations. The rest of the dining party carries on with a subdued atmosphere, and the contrast to Kaillas's usual lively court dinners is stark.

When Kaillas finally announces the end of the dinner, King William and Queen Charlotte rise from their seats without enthusiasm. There is no hint of regret or acknowledgment of the tension they have caused. Instead, they comply with his suggestion to leave, their indifference as palpable as ever.

(Oh I'm hoping so XD I'm looking forward to a little girl to dote on)

Kaillas paid little to the dinner as it dragged on. The conversation, or lack there of, had irritated him beyond relief. He had been close to snapping and had to force himself to dissociate from the dinner table. Ambrose had kicked him under the table the couple times his response was needed, but for the most part, he kept quiet throughout dinner. But no matter how much he dissociated, he always kept one hand on Ophelia's knee, letting her bring him back.

As dinner ended, he stood and pulled his wife up to stand next to him. He pulled her in closer than was sociably accepted, even for a married couple, especially for a king and queen. He didn't kiss her, though he desperately wanted to. It wasn't because of the people around him that kept him from swooping down. Well, it was, but only two of them. He didn't want to let her parents ruin this for them, ruin such a sweet moment such as a husband kissing his wife. So he would be content with holding her hand until they were safely tucked away in their room.

His eyes gave her the response to her words. Anything for you. His eyes held the devotion and love he had for her, even in these trying times. It wasn't her fault. She hadn't made her parents like this. She hadn't forced them here. He was honestly surprised that she had turned out as wonderful as she had given her parents were like this. It just spoke volumes to her as a whole. How wonderful she truly was, and how blessed he was to have her.

Without another look, he led Ophelia out of the dining room and back up to their rooms. And as soon as that door slammed shut, he pushed her against the door and kissed her hard. He wasn't seducing her. He just needed her. He needed her like he needed air to breathe

(It'll be fucking adorable XD)

Ophelia's heart aches as she watches Kaillas endure the agonizing dinner. She can feel his irritation simmering beneath the surface, threatening to boil over. The absence of meaningful conversation weighs heavily on both of them, and she wishes there was a way to make it all disappear. Throughout the excruciating meal, she discreetly touches her husband's hand, a silent gesture meant to anchor him to the present and provide some solace in the sea of discomfort.

When Kaillas finally stands and pulls her up beside him, she can't help but feel a wave of relief. His embrace is a welcome respite from the stifling atmosphere at the dinner table. She longs for his kiss, but understands the reasons behind his restraint. It isn't about the watchful eyes of the courtiers; it's about not letting her parents tarnish this precious moment between them. She squeezes his hand, her eyes locked onto his, seeking comfort and understanding.

His eyes speak volumes, and she can't help but smile, her love for him deepening with each passing moment. Despite the challenges they face, their bond remains unbreakable. She knows that it isn't her fault her parents are like this, and she's grateful that Kaillas sees beyond her family's flaws to cherish her for who she is.

She follows him back to their rooms, relieved that they survived such a painfully awkward ordeal. Her parents don't make anything easy, that's for sure. Before she has a second to say anything, she finds herself being pushed up against the door. She kisses him back passionately, wrapping her arms loosely around his neck. She needs this just as much as he does.

Kaillas was never doing this again. He was never opening up his home to these people again. It didn't matter how much Ophelia fought him on it, this was one of those times he was putting his foot down. They were no longer welcome in his home, his court, or his country, for any reason. Not even if Ophelia was on her deathbed. They would only bring about more pain and suffering and he would never put his wife through this again. And if she was angry with him, if she hated him for a time, it was worth it so he didn't have to endure this again. So he didn't have to watch as her parents all but neglected her. As they looked at her with disappointment and indifference.

He hands engulfed both of her cheeks, kissing her hard. Harder than necessary but it was what he needed. He just needed to feel her. He needed to feel that she was okay. He needed her to respond to him as if her parents weren't with them. As if this was just a regular day. He needed to know she was okay.

Because Kaillas wasn't suffering because of anything they were doing to him. He could care less how they treated him. He could care less how they treated his council, within reason. His sisters and his wife were where he drew the line. They had dismissed his sister and his wife and he was already on thin ice. Every minute that had passed was just one more chip at that ice. He had been so close to just falling in.

Finally, he ended the kiss but he did not separate from her. Instead, he leaned his forehead against hers. "Are you alright?" He asked because he should be asking about her and her wellbeing. She shouldn't be concerned with his.

Ophelia feels Kaillas' hands on her cheeks, the intensity of his kiss momentarily startling her. His lips on hers are demanding, almost punishing, but she understands the desperation behind it. It's a raw expression of his need to connect with her, to assure himself that she's okay. So, she responds with equal fervor, kissing him back with a passion born out of the chaos surrounding them.

In that stolen moment, their lips locked, she can feel his worry and anger melt away, replaced by a desperate longing for normalcy. But the reality is far from normal. Her parents' actions have wounded her deeply, and she can't simply forget that, no matter how much she wants to for his sake.

When he finally breaks the kiss but stays close, their foreheads touching, she heart aches. His question hangs in the air, and she knows that it's not just about her physical well-being. It's about her emotional state, her heartache, and her sense of betrayal. Tears well up in her eyes, but she blinks them away, determined not to break down in front of him. "I'm trying to be," she admits, her voice trembling slightly.

A small part of her had hoped that her parents would be happy to see her and that they would show her that they actually love her and that she isn’t a mere pawn in their game. Instead, they’ve been nothing but cold to her and the way they’ve treated her new family…..she can’t handle much more of it.

Knowing that they still have some festivities to get through, she puts a smile on her face. “We just have to get through tonight. They will be gone in the morning.” That thought is helping her get through this miserable evening.

Kaillas stroked her cheeks, brushing his lips against her in a soft comfort. His heart cracked as he heard her voice tremble. He wrapped her in his arms, bringing her into his chest and holding her tight. "I've got you, darling. I can take it. I can take it all from you if you let me. You do not need to do this alone." He would shield her and protect her. He would fight for her and put his foot down. He wouldn't let anyone touch her. Never again.

"I can shut this all down right now. Just say the words and I will." Her parents, the ball, it could all be gone in the blink of an eye. All he needed was her blessing to do it. And while he had selfish reasons for wishing to keep the ball alive, if it was what she needed, it could all disappear.

If she wished to continue with their evening, he would get her through it. He would tuck her away and hide her from her parents while still enjoying the festivities the night had to offer. He would sweep her onto the dance floor and dance with her all night until her lips began to smile and her eyes began to brighten. He would hide them away behind the curtains of the giant glass windows and kiss her silly until he heard her beautiful laugh. And come midnight, well, he had a surprise awaiting for her.

"If you are sure," he kissed her forehead gently. "But you do not need to hide with me, as much as I love that beautiful smile." He brushed his thumb along the outline of her lips.

Ophelia melts into Kaillas' embrace, comforted by the warmth of his affection. She can feel his heartbeat beneath her ear, a reassuring rhythm that grounds her in this chaotic moment. His words are a lifeline, and she holds onto them tightly.

His offer to shut it all down, to protect her, is tempting. But she knows how much he's invested in the ball, how important it is to him. And she can't bear to take that away from him. "No," she says softly, shaking her head, "I don't want to ruin everyone else’s night, Kaillas. Let's go on, for now." She knows how hard everyone worked to pull off of this off. She refuses to waste all of their efforts.

His thumb tracing her lips sends a shiver down her spine, and she leans in, pressing a gentle kiss to the pad of his thumb. "Thank you for being there for me, Kaillas," she whispers, her eyes locked onto his, full of love and appreciation.

She just needs to keep reminding herself that her parents will be gone in the morning. That’s all that matters. She just needs to get through tonight and then she can go about her life and be happy again. Thankfully, once they leave, they won’t be back for quite a long time. These visits will never become frequent.

Kaillas sighed. "But I do not want your night ruined either," he murmured, though he knew he would be dismissed. His wife was a people pleaser and he knew there was no changing her mind. He loved and hated that about his wife, her ability to care for others but even at the extent of herself. He didn't like seeing her like this. He hoped to teach her the importance of taking care of herself, ignoring the fact that he rarely did that for himself.

His eyes darkened at the kiss she left on the pad of his thumb. His eyes narrowed. "I thought you would have been sated after our closet tryst." His thumb left her lips only to grip her jaw. "I will always be here for you. If you need anything, all you must do is ask."

It was torture to have to pull away from her when she was so inviting but they had a ball to ready themselves for. And being late was not an option this time. He slid his hand down her body until her hand slipped into his. "Then we have a ball to get ready for. I took the liberty of choosing your gown for tonight. i hope you do not mind but I couldn't resist. Of course, if you do not like it, you may wear something else."

He so did hope she liked it. With a summons, two maid brought forth her dress. They placed it on a hook, straightening it out so that Ophelia could have a good look at it. The neckline was relatively modest, a "V" shape dipping no lower than exposing just a sliver a cleavage. The sleeves were transparent, traveling down to the wrist. The skirt was full and embodied the idea of a ballgown. It would be a challenge to dance with her with so many layers but there was nothing in the world keeping her from dancing with her.

Where the front was modest, the back was not. He forewent a corseted style. The back dipped low, just past the curve of her waist. However, it was not the style or the cute of the dress that would catch everyone's attention. It was the color. The gown looked as those the stars had been woven into the fabric. It glowed, ensuring that she would capture the attention of anyone who looked at her.

Ophelia smiles softly at Kaillas, touched by his concern for her well-being. "I appreciate your thoughtfulness, Kaillas," she says, her voice warm with affection. "But I can't let their actions dictate how I live my life or how we enjoy this night.” She knows that she’s a pushover when it comes to her parents but she can’t help it. It’s how she was raised. She truly doesn’t know any better.

His playful comment about their earlier tryst brings a blush to her cheeks. "Well," she teases, "you can’t expect me to ever have enough of you." She chuckles softly, the tension in the air dissipating for a moment. It takes her a moment to actually focus on what he’s saying when he grips her jaw like that. It’s utterly shameful how easily she reacts to just the slightest touch from him.

When he takes her hand and leads her to the gown he's chosen, her eyes widen in surprise and delight. The dress is a work of art, and she's captivated by its beauty. "Kaillas, it's stunning," she breathes, her fingers gently brushing over the fabric that seems to shimmer like the night sky. "You have impeccable taste."

As she examines the gown, her heart swells with love for him. It's not just about the dress; it's about the care and effort he's put into making this night special for her. "I love it," she says, her eyes sparkling with gratitude and excitement. "I can't wait to wear it tonight."

She reaches up and kisses him softly, a promise of what's to come, of the love and resilience that will carry them through the evening. "Thank you, Kaillas," she whispers against his lips before pulling away reluctantly, ready to prepare for the ball ahead.

"Hmm, it is you that I will never have enough of, my darling," Kaillas dipped his head to brush his lips against hers, only to pull his head back. "No delays, no matter how tempting you are." And she sure was tempting. But he couldn't give in. Not now, not yet. It all depended on how tonight went.

He stood behind her, hovering as she admired the gown. It brought a smile to his lips. He hadn't been sure if she would have liked it when he commissioned it. He had wanted something beautiful and acceptable to wear but without the corset he knew his wife hated. She had expressed his dislike of it multiple times. He would never subject her to something she hated. So that had been the one thing he had made very clear when he commissioned the gown.

He wanted her to glow. Everyone's eyes would be on her, and how could they not? She was beautiful. The gown would only help catch their attention. It was her birthday. He wanted her to feel as beautiful as she looked and he hoped the gown would help her see that.

He wrapped his arms around her as she kissed him, returning the gesture, and chasing after her lips as she pulled away. His self-control was always hanging on a thread when she was around. How could it not be? She was utterly irresistible. He didn't think he would ever be sated. Not when there was so much of her to taste.

"You can think me by putting it on. Let me see you, darling." He gave her a gentle nudge towards the gown. He had dismissed the maids. He would help her dress. He did know his way around a gown. He could help her as easily as they could.

Ophelia's heart flutters as Kaillas' lips graze hers, a tantalizing promise of what they both desire but can't yet indulge in. She savors the taste of his kiss, the longing and desire that lingers between them, before he pulls away with a restraint that mirrors her own.

A soft chuckle escapes her as he mentions the tempting delay. "You're right," she concedes with a teasing glint in her eyes. "No delays tonight. We have a ball to attend, after all."

As Kaillas stands behind her, his presence a comforting and enticing warmth, Ophelia gazes at the gown once more. She's utterly enchanted by its beauty and the thoughtfulness behind his choice. The absence of the dreaded corset is a loving gesture that warms her heart.

Turning to face him, she leans into his embrace, her head resting against his chest. "You've outdone yourself, Kaillas," she murmurs, her voice filled with admiration.

His gentle nudge towards the gown brings her back to the present moment, and she nods, a playful smile curving her lips. "Very well, my dear. I'll put it on for you." The fact that he wants to help her dress only deepens her affection for him, and she knows that tonight will be a night to remember, not just because of the ball.

She notices the absence of the maids and raises her brows curiously but doesn’t remark on it. Instead, she takes a minute to get out of the gown she’s currently wearing so she can get changed.

Kaillas narrowed his eyes at her at the tease in her voice. She was a minx and a temptress and she knew exactly what she as doing to him. It was so, so tempting. He just wanted to bundle her up in his arms and lock them both away from the world. At least for the night. They had things to do, and duties to be carried out. And as much as he wanted her all to himself, he knew he couldn't be that selfish. She did have friends who wanted to see her. He had heard from a couple of his councilmen how their wives had taken to her. And he was smart enough to know which ones were sincere and which were not.

He kissed the top of her head as she placed it on her chest. "I really didn't do all that much. You have the seamstress to thank." Yes, he had told her what he wanted in the dress and he had approved the final sketch, but he really hadn't done much. It had been the seamstress who had done all the hard work. She had slaved away for days getting this done.

He hid his smile from her. It blessed him greatly that she liked it. He had been worried. It wasn't exactly her style and he had chosen it for her. Not everyone appreciated that. And it wasn't like he was forcing her to wear it. He would never have done that. if she hadn't liked it he would have given it to Elora or Katya to have. But she liked it and his heart bloomed.

He strode over to her, knocking her hands out of the way and helped her with the laces of the corset himself. His fingers were quicker to loosen the gown and help her step out of it. While his intention was pure, he couldn't help but get momentarily distracted by her chest. He took the gown off the hanger and opened it up so she could easily step into it, well, as easily as it could be with the amount of petticoats there were.

(I kinda of imagined the skirt to look like the live action Cinderella with lily james. Just like the skirts volume)

Ophelia meets Kaillas' narrowed gaze with a sly smile, fully aware of the effect her teasing has on him. She revels in her role as a temptress, a minx who can stir his desires effortlessly. It took her some time to relax and get comfortable enough to act like this. As much as she yearns to give in to their mutual longing, she knows they have responsibilities to uphold, and her friends deserve her time as well.

Feeling the kiss on her head, she nestles closer against his chest, her heart warmed by his affection. "The seamstress may have done the work, but it was your taste and thoughtfulness that made it special," she says softly, genuinely appreciating his gesture. She's well aware of his attention to detail, even in matters like this. Of course, she’ll be certain to thank the seamstress for all of her hard work.

When Kaillas approaches to assist with the corset, her hands momentarily surrender to his skilled touch. His fingers work quickly and efficiently, and though his intention is pure, she can sense a hint of desire in his gaze. Her cheeks flush with a delicate pink as the corset loosens, and she steps out of the gown gracefully. His careful attention to her attire and the intimate moments like these make her heart skip a beat.

As she steps into the gown, the fabric glides smoothly over her skin, caressing her form as it drapes around her. Her fingers reach behind her, attempting to fasten the gown's intricate closures.

(Ooh I loved that dress)

Kaillas had been willing to wait as long as was necessary for her. She was worth the wait. It warmed his heart to see her grow comfortable into the woman that she was. She was elegant and beautiful and she made his body heat with a simple sultry look. He had worked hard to teach her to be comfortable in her skin and her sexuality. He prayed her parents didn't ruin any of that, for her sake and his.

He smiled brightly into her hair where she couldn't see it. It was juvenile of him to want to hide how much this made him happy but he hid it anyway from her. He had never truly been good at giving gifts. He had spent his entire childhood and most of his teenage years in the army. There was no place to learn how to give gifts, what to look for, and plan for. It had taken him a very long time to learn what people looked for in gifts. There had been a lot of trial and error.

By the time they had separated, he had his grin under his control and subsided for now. Once again, he pushed her hands away as he fastened the gown on her. Buttons that were hidden by the fabric. They were almost too small for his larger fingers to fit through the loops, and while he slipped on a couple, he managed to get them all done. His knuckles skimmed across the smooth skin on her exposed back. His head was bent, nose brushing along her neck. "Let me look at you," he murmured into her ear.

He let go of her, taking a few steps back to allow room for the gown. He didn't want to step on it or get caught in the fabric. He looked at her like a man in love. She had captured his attention and his heart. And as she turned to look at him, it was like the air had been sucked right out of him. he almost blurted out those three words he was saving.

Ophelia felt a rush of emotions coursing through her as he fastened the gown with those gentle, yet somewhat fumbling, fingers. The intimacy of the moment wasn't lost on her. She closed her eyes, savoring the sensation of his knuckles brushing against her skin, the warmth of his breath on her neck. His whispered words sent shivers down her spine, and she couldn't help but smile as she turned to face him.

Bathed in the warmth of Kaillas's affection, she turns slowly to face him, the gown he had carefully fastened clinging to her like a second skin. His gaze, filled with genuine affection and desire, made her feel like the most cherished woman in the world. She couldn't remember a time when she had felt more beautiful or more seen. Her eyes locked onto his, and she could see the love and devotion in them. It was a moment she wished could last forever, a moment where nothing else in the world mattered. The room seems to hold its breath, waiting for that pivotal moment when their hearts would speak louder than words.

Her lips part, as if she us about to say something profound, but then she falls silent. She wants to tell him that she loves him but now isn't the right time. She wants to wait for a special moment.

"Kaillas," she says, her voice carrying a hint of playfulness, "it's time to go." Her fingers entwine with his, and she takes a step closer, her gown shimmering in the low light. The music from the ballroom beckons, and she can already hear the waltz melody drifting toward them. With a graceful twirl, she moves closer to the door, leading him toward the enchanting night that awaits them. "Let's not keep the dance floor waiting," she adds, her voice filled with the promise of a magical evening. She's feeling a bit better about the evening now.

She truly glowed like starlight. Ophelia looked otherworldly and Kaillas did not feel worthy to place his gaze upon her. He felt as though he should be bowing before her and worshipping at her feet, for it was what she deserved. She needed no crown on her brow, for anyone who gazed upon would know of what she was. There was no one who could look at her and not be overwhelmed with the feeling of worshipping her. She was a goddess and Kaillas was her humble servant.

As she moved to him, the light reflected off of the gown, causing it to sparkle and glow. He was mesmerized for a moment longer and it took him a moment to process her words. The ball, right. They did need to be on their way but he wanted to keep her just a moment longer. He wasn't quite ready to share her just yet. He raised her hand to his lips and kissed her knuckles. His eyes twinkled as he looked at her.

"I suppose, my darling, that I cannot hoard all of your time and beauty to myself." No, the world needed to see her so that they may worship at her feet. He tucked her against his side and took her arm in his own. As they moved through the halls, he focused largely on keeping off of the skirts of her gown and not tripping on them. Her gown, while a challenge, would not keep him from holding her and escorting her. It would not stop him from dancing with her. But it did mean he had to be more conscious of her skirts. He would not be the cause of the skirts dirtying or ripping because he stepped on it.

As they stepped into the ballroom, the low lighting gleamed off of Ophelia's gown and lit up the room. A steward announced their presence as they stepped through those open doors. All voices hushed as they laid eyes on their reigning monarch, more specifically their queen. There was an aura of awe and amazement, as well as jealousy as Kaillas led her through the room to the two thrones set in the ballroom. Kaillas gripped her hand as he let her climb the dais to the thrones. He climbed the stairs to stand next to her and subtly gestured for her to address the room and welcome them all to her birthday ball.

Ophelia, bathed in the soft glow of admiration from Kaillas, can't help but feel a warmth spreading through her. The way he looks at her, the reverence in his eyes, is a testament to the love they share. She feels like the luckiest woman in the world. As he kisses her knuckles, her heart skips a beat, and she returns his twinkling gaze with a loving smile.

"You are too kind, my darling," she whispers in response, her voice filled with affection. She leans into him, reveling in the feeling of his arm around her, their steps synchronized as they navigate the hallways and approach the ballroom.

Stepping into the resplendent ballroom, she feels a surge of pride and humility all at once. The steward's announcement resonates through the room, and all eyes turn toward her. She stands tall, the embodiment of grace and regality in her sparkling gown. Kaillas's hand in hers is her anchor, and she climbs the dais to the waiting thrones with a sense of purpose.

As they reach their seats, she feels Kaillas's subtle gesture, and her heart swells with love and gratitude for the man by her side. She turns to face the expectant crowd, her voice clear and filled with warmth. "Ladies and gentlemen, dear friends and esteemed guests," she begins, her eyes sweeping across the room, "thank you for joining us on this special evening. Your presence here fills my heart with joy, and I am honored to share this celebration with each and every one of you." The room erupts in applause, and she knows that this night will be one to remember, not just for her, but for everyone fortunate enough to be a part of it.

"I only speak the truth, darling. Your beauty is incomparable." There was no one like her. Not a single one of his lovers had ever come close to her. Perhaps the only women in his life who could rival her beauty were his sisters, but even then, he was biased towards them. But Ophelia, there was no mistaking her beauty. Her skin positively glowed. There was a soft halo around her, beckoning him in. Whatever spell she had placed on him, he welcomed it gladly. For her, he would follow to the ends of the earth. He would capture the starlight and weave it. He would steal the moon only to present to her as a gift. And he would fight the fiery hells of the sun if it dared to burn her. Because to him, she was everything.

Kaillas looked at only her as she spoke to the crowd gathered before them. The faded away into the background and their applause was but a ringing in his ears. Not when she was all that filled his senses. In a rare moment, he kissed the back of her hand once more, his lips lingering on her skin and his eyes held a promise as he raised them to look at her.

He lingered his attention on her for a moment longer before finally turning to their guests, with a raise of his hand, he invited the musicians to continue in their music and for the ball to resume to their activities before they had entered. The dance floor cleared as couples swarmed it to begin to dance. Kaillas sat only after his wife did and he watched them for only a moment before turning to Ophelia.

There was a pile of gifts beside her that were from various members of the court. Many of them were nickknacks that she would likely never use, as there were plenty at court who did not truly know her or her likes. The gifts were more because they were expected to gift one, not because they truly wished to. Kaillas would mention donating the gifts she didn't want in the next few days.

Ophelia can't help but blush at Kaillas's words, his heartfelt compliments warming her to her core. His unwavering adoration never ceases to amaze her, and she feels truly fortunate to have him by her side. As he kisses the back of her hand, his eyes holding a promise she knows he'll keep, her heart skips a beat. She turns her attention to the crowd, feeling the weight of their expectations and the adoration of their subjects. Her role as a queen is both a privilege and a responsibility, one she takes seriously. With a gracious smile, she acknowledges the applause and the well-wishes of their guests.

She feels a warmth in her heart every time she looks into Kaillas' eyes. She can't help but feel incredibly lucky to have him as her husband. From the moment they first met, she knew there was something special about Kaillas. His smile, so genuine and warm, has a way of melting her heart. Their conversations flow effortlessly, like two rivers merging into one, and every word he speaks resonates with her deeply. With Kaillas, she has found not just a partner but a kindred spirit, someone who understands her in ways no one else ever has.

Their days together are filled with laughter, shared dreams, and simple moments that feel like treasures. Whether it is a quiet evening at home, hand in hand, or an adventure, she cherishes every moment they spend together. Kaillas has a way of making every day feel like a celebration of their love. In the morning, when she wakes up to see Kaillas' adoring expression, she can't help but smile. She knows that she is the luckiest woman in the world to wake up next to such an incredible man. His love is a beacon of light that brightens even the darkest days, and it fills her heart with gratitude.

As she thinks about their future together, her heart swells with anticipation and joy. She knows that their relationship is a rare and precious gift, and she cherishes it with all her heart.

Her gaze shifts to the pile of gifts beside her, a mixture of tokens from well-wishers and courtiers. While she certainly appreciates the thought, she isn't sure how much use she will have for most of these gifts. "Such generosity," she remarks to Kaillas, her voice filled with gratitude. "I shall have to send our thanks to everyone who thought of us tonight."

She turns her attention back to the dancing couples, the music flowing through the air like a siren's call. "Shall we dance, my king?" She extends her hand towards him, a twinkle of playfulness in her eyes.

Kaillas barely glanced at the party-goers. Ophelia had his full attention, as she always did. She was the light of his life and he would follow it always. He held her hand, their joining hanging between the space of their thrones. He squeezed her hands and ran his thumb over her knuckles. As he glanced at the floor before them, he couldn't help but think back on this past month with his wife. he had been so reluctant to marry her at first. He had been so against it and had been content to send her away and fund her lifestyle, however, that may have been. He had never expected her.

Ophelia was different than anyone he ever imagined. She was kind and generous and brought out a side of him he thought had been beaten out of him. She made him want to be better. He was devoted to her in a way he hadn't thought possible. And love? Before her, he would have laughed at love. Love was not for people like him. It didn't exist. He had done too much in this life to ever be deserving of love. And yet here she was and he was utterly in love with her. He was capable of love. And he only prayed that she loved him as well.

"That would be most kind of you, darling. I think they will appreciate that." And make them feel more important, receiving a note of thanks from the queen. Even if most of those gifts were of no use to her and would likely be repurposed. As long as they did not go to waste. He knew his wife would not want that.

Kaillas smiled as she spoke again. His usual discontent for dancing had long been replaced with want. He wanted to dance with her. He wanted to float around the room with her in his arms. He wanted to show everyone at court what they could see but never have. Because she was all his and he was never letting her go now.

He took her outstretched hand and stood. "I will dance all night with you if you would like." And he had never meant anything more. He would dance until his feet bled in his shoes and the sun rose on the horizon.

Helping her stand, he led her onto the floor, the guests parting and making room for them as they walked. The dance floor cleared as they made their destination obvious. The court would let them have their first dance alone. The musicians paused until the couple was in position on the dance floor, then they begun.

Ophelia's eyes sparkle with affection as Kaillas takes her hand and stands to dance with her. Her heart flutters with happiness, knowing that he's willing to dance all night just to be with her. She rises gracefully, her elegant gown swaying with each step, as they make their way to the center of the dance floor.

The courtiers watch in hushed admiration, the music filling the air with a soft, melodic tune that seems to resonate with the love that envelops the couple. Her trust in Kaillas has transformed her life, and she's grateful for the depth of emotion he's brought into her world.

As they begin to dance, she gazes up at him with a look of pure love. She may not have said the words yet but that doesn’t diminish how she feels. Her hand rests on his shoulder while the other is securely held in his, their bodies moving in perfect harmony with the music. In this moment, surrounded by the watchful eyes of the court, they are the only two that matter.

Without him, her life would have been a monotonous existence, a mere pawn in the political games of court.

She knows that with Kaillas, she is not just a queen but a woman who is cherished, adored, and loved beyond measure. She thinks about the children they hope to have, the adventures they'll embark on, and the future they'll create together.

In the midst of the music and their synchronized movements, she is acutely aware of how different her life could have been. She shudders at the thought of the loveless marriage she might have endured and the happiness she might have missed. Instead, she is here, dancing with the love of her life, grateful for every moment that has brought them to this point, and looking forward to a future filled with love, joy, and endless possibilities.

Every eye might have been on them, but Kaillas only had eyes for her. She was the only one he saw. Everyone else faded until they simply ceased to exist, and it was only the two of them. Nothing else mattered in that moment. No one but her.

His hand slid along her back, pulling her as close to him as her skirts would allow him. The music began and he led her into a slow waltz. Every step he took was with certainty and without landing on the skirts of her gown. He glanced down more than once to ensure that he hadn't stepped on them. As the music slowly picked up pace, so did he, until they were all but floating across the floor of the ballroom. He was twirling her and picking her up by the waist to spin her.

The audience around them watched in quiet awe as their king and queen flitted about the floor. They were flawless, seamless. They had never known their king could dance with such grace. And their queen, well, she was beyond comparability. There were no words to describe her as they danced. Her dress shined and sparkled until she truly did look like the starlight they had attempted to weave. This was their queen. There had been no better match than she. As she spun, the court held their breath until she was back in their king's arms. Their king, who looked like the night sky had it be void of any star or moon. She was the star to his darkness. Where he brought the night, she lit the way. There was no one more perfect for one another than them.

As the music came to an end, Kaillas dipped his wife low, holding her tight like he would never let her go. And he wouldn't. He would never let her fall. He would always be there to hold her. And if she wished to jump, well, he would be there at the bottom waiting to catch her.