forum Royal Affairs (O/O Closed)

Started May 08, 2023 by @LolaBug

tune

Ophelia listens to Kaillas's sweet words, soaking them up and enjoying how wonderful he is. "Every day for the rest of our lives," she repeats with a dreamy smile, basking in the warmth of his kisses. His affectionate gestures are like a gentle melody, and she feels utterly content in his presence.

As he carries her to the bathroom, she lets out a soft giggle, wrapping her arms around his neck to steady herself. The familiar scent of their bathroom mixed with the enticing aroma of the bathwater soothes her senses. She appreciates the care he takes to ensure the water is at the perfect temperature for her. While most people enjoy a nice hot bath, she likes to practically be boiling in hers. At first she had worried that it would be too uncomfortable for Kaillas but it seems as though he has adjusted.

The moment he joins her in the tub, settling her in his lap with her back against his chest, she leans back with a sigh of bliss. His arms wrapped around her provide the security and warmth she craves, and the sensation of his hands gently stroking her stomach sends shivers of delight through her. They have a few minutes to relax before they need to get ready and she wants to enjoy every second of it.

(You should join the discord if you're not already on it.)

Kaillas sat in a calm silence and tranquil with her. Silence wasn't knew to him but this serenity certianly was. Silence had always been cold and long before to him. Now it was peace and calm and clarity, as long as he was with her. They didn't need to talk for him to enjoy his time with her. He just needed her presence there with him.

Eventually, he did grab the soap and rag, lathering it up. He began to gently wash Ophelia, as he did each time they bathed with one another. He took gentle care as he washed her skin. He wanted to be careful he wasn't too rough on her skin while still ultimately cleaning her. His hands didn't wonder, no matter how tempting certain appendages were to him. His gaze had traveled to her chest more than once. And when he was cleaning another part of her body. He was still a man after all.

He washed her hair next. His fingers massaging hee scalp as he shampooed her and detangling her hair as he added conditioner. He washed them both out of her hair before kissing her cheek. She was done, now it was his turn next. He handed her the soap, a silent question, will you wash me now? He was addicted to the feeling of her hands on his skin. He cohkd almost fall asleep to the soothing feel on her hands on his skin.

(I didn’t know there was a Discord for notebook but I’d love to join)

Ophelia revels in the soothing silence of the moment, wrapped in Kaillas's strong and tender embrace. In his arms, she finds a serene world of contentment, a place where words are unnecessary, where the silent connection between them speaks volumes. She watches the play of light and shadows on the bathroom walls, her senses attuned to the sensation of his hands gently caressing her skin.

His care and attention are evident as he washes her, his touch delicate yet thorough. She closes her eyes, lost in the sensations he evokes, her heart swelling with love for this man who takes such care of her. Her lips curve into a soft smile, even as she senses his occasional fleeting glances.

When it's time for him to be cleaned, she accepts the soap and rag with a knowing look. Her hands, gentle and confident, begin to trace the lines of his body. She savors the feel of his skin beneath her fingertips, the way his muscles ripple beneath her touch. Their shared moments in the bath are an intimate dance of care and affection, a connection that transcends the physical. She leans in to place a tender kiss on his lips, conveying her love and gratitude without the need for words. As she continues to wash him, the bathroom is filled with the sensual scent of soap and the sound of their shared breaths.

(There's a link at the bottom of the page. Click discord and it will take you. I like to spam my cat on there XD)

As Kaillas handed over the soap, he leaned back agaisnt the porcelain tub and let his eyes close, sinking into the feeling of her soft caresses. The feeling of her gentle fingers caused goosebumps to raise. He flexed his muscles under her touch as she traced then, eyes opening to smile cheekily at her. Some of his scars were raised and some were pulled taunt. And some had faded there was only a faint, pale line left.

Perhaps one day he would tell her the story behind each of them. Perhaps one day he would open up that part of himself. He remembered the story behind each of them. He could see them almost vividly, his facial scar the most predominant. This wouldn't go without a bottle of whiskey. Not with the nightmares and memories jt would bring him. He would need the hard liquor to help take the edge off.

Today was not that day. Today they would enjoy this bath, send off her parents, and have cebratory toast that her parents were out if their loves. Then her present should be arriving shortly and he woukd surprise her with it. One last surprise. From him at least. She still had her mountain of gifts to open from his sisters and the court. They'd likely still be finding boxes in a month's time.

(How have I never noticed that? lol And awww gotta love the pet pic spam)

Ophelia's fingers continue their tender exploration of Kaillas's skin, her touch a gentle caress as she washes away the remnants of the night. The play of goosebumps across his skin only encourages her, a testament to the effect she has on him. His scars, like etched memories, are a part of him she longs to understand better, but she knows not to press. They'll share when the time is right, and she'll be there to listen.

She appreciates the serenity of this moment, the quiet intimacy of the bath, and the promise of the day ahead. Their shared future is filled with uncertainties and challenges, but she takes comfort in the small moments of connection, like this one, that remind her of their love. She knows there will be more surprises to come, but for now, she cherishes the simple joy of being close to him.

As the bathwater laps gently around them, she leans in to capture his lips in a sweet and tender kiss. “We should start getting ready,” She murmurs after pulling away. It’s nearly time to send her parents off. As much as she would love to stay in the tub with him forever, that isn’t an option.

(I like using the writing section as well to motivate my responding XD They's got a sprint feature that's a really good motivator.)

Kaillas leaned his head forward to give her a soft kiss as she washed him. Her hands, smooth and soft. He compared their difference every day. Her small, soft body, clear of any scaring or markings. His hard body, littered with scars and callouses he'll carry on him for the rest of his life. Their lives were so vastly different and yet they were each other's perfect half. Perhaps the fates were real and she was his designated soulmate, for he knew of no one else better for him. She was his perfect half.

he accepted the kiss from her, though frowned at her following words. She was right, of course. She was always right. But that didn't mean that he wanted to get out of this bath. not when they were having such a nice time with each other. If he could stay here forever and feel her washing his body he would. He was obsessed with her touch.

"I suppose you're right. The last thing we want is for your parents to burst in here because we're taking so long." He just felt like that was something they would do. And if they did, well, he hoped that they traumatized themselves.

He reached forward and pulled the plug of the drain in the tub. He watched as the water began to drain but he made no move to get out of the bath just yet. instead, he sat back and admired her for a moment. Beautiful, like always. Then he finally gave in with a nod of his head. "Alright, alright, let's go. The sooner we get this over with the sooner you're parents are gone from here."

(Ooh that’s a fun feature!!)

Ophelia feels the warmth of Kaillas's lips against hers and savors the connection, knowing that these simple moments are the ones that make their bond so strong. As she washes him, she can't help but think about the differences between them, their lives, and their experiences. Their love story is a unique one, a merging of two worlds that have given them both a sense of completeness they might never have found otherwise.

She nods in agreement, a hint of amusement in her eyes. "Yes, let's not give my parents the chance to barge in on us. Some things are best left private." She smiles at the thought of her parents being slightly scandalized, although she knows that her mother, in particular, might take it upon herself to give them a lecture on propriety.

When Kaillas pulls the plug to start draining the bath, she watches the water whirl away, feeling the final moments of their shared bath tick away. Her heart swells with affection as she gazes at him, appreciating the beauty of the man before her. "I promise, it won't take long," she says with a teasing grin, as if reassuring him that their time with her parents will be manageable.

As they prepare to leave the bath, Ophelia can't resist giving Kaillas a final kiss, a sweet and lingering one that conveys her love. "Thank you for enduring my parents, Kaillas. I couldn't do this without you." She means every word, and as they step out of the bath and begin getting ready for the day ahead, she knows that, together, they can handle anything that comes their way.

She gets out of the tub and wraps a giant fluffy white towel around herself to dry off a bit before getting dressed.

(Sometimes me and davadio will race on it. It's fun to compare our writing speeds)

Kaillas wasn't quite so sure traumatizing her parents wouldn't be worth it. It just might. And the looks on their faces would be golden. He might just have the palace painter make a portrait of their horrified faces so that he could look at it anytime he needed a pick me up. Alas, it was a little too petty to do and he doubted his lovely wife would approve of his antics. He had promised to be good so he would be.

He pinched her side. "Every minute with them feels like an hour has passed. I honestly don't know how you grew into this wonderful young woman. It certainly wasn't because of them." It was likely because of their lack of attention that she was this way.

He cupped her cheek, stroking it lovingly. "I would endure anything for you, my love." The truth of what lengths he would go for her was terrifying. He would walk across hot coals. He would slaughter cities and kingdoms, if only to keep her safe and by his side. He would rather let the whole world burn around them than let anything happen to his wife. He would rather endure her hatred than suffer without her.

He stepped out of the bath, wrapping a towel around himself so he didn't drip water everywhere. Then he held out his hand to help Ophelia out of the bath, his gaze lingering perhaps a little too long on her chest. It was very distracting. He bundled her in a towel, kissing her forehead as he did so. He released her so that they could both get dressed, dreading every piece of clothing that she put on. He just wanted to drag her back to bed naked and lounge in bed all day.

(That sounds fun! And honestly waaay more productive than anything I try lol)

Ophelia, with her damp hair clinging to her shoulders, lets out a soft, playful laugh as Kaillas pinches her side. "I must have developed a thick skin to survive them," she jokes, her eyes filled with affection. His cupped cheek feels warm against her own, and she leans into his touch, savoring the love in his eyes.

As he steps out of the bath and offers his hand, she takes it with a small, grateful smile. She catches his lingering gaze, her cheeks flushing slightly as she meets his eyes. Though it makes her feel flustered, she always appreciates that appreciative gaze of his. The moment he wraps her in a towel, she feels a shiver of warmth run through her.

Getting dressed is a reluctant necessity, and every layer of clothing feels like an unwanted barrier between them. Ophelia mirrors Kaillas's longing, yearning for the comfort of their bed. "One day," she whispers with a teasing glint in her eye, "we'll have a day all to ourselves, without the world's interruptions."

With a lingering kiss, she continues to dress, knowing that their responsibilities await them, even if their desires are momentarily thwarted. It only takes her a few minutes to pull on her dress and get to work on her hair.

Kaillas would hold her to that promise. That's all he wanted, was one day free of interruptions. He didn't think that was so hard to ask for and yet they could never seem to find it. Their honeymoon hadn't counted. They had been like this on their honeymoon. They hadn't been true lovers just yet. And he had organized plenty of things to do throughout their honeymoon, until it was interrupted. He didn't want to do any activities that had to be taken outside of the bedroom.

He dressed rather quickly, pulling on a clean pair of trousers, a simple cotton shirt and a plain doublet over. Nothing fantastic and nothing near as beautiful as he had worn last night. It was simple ad clean and respectable. And something her parents hopefully wouldn't comment on. Because he had plenty of things he could say right back to them. Like how they were keeping him out of bed with darling girl.

He waited on the bed for her as he pulled on his shoes. He found that he liked watching her do the most mundane tasks, such as getting ready for the day. He could watch her do things for an eternity and never bore.

"You look beautiful as always darling," he said as she applied the final touches. He held his hand out to her from her he was seated, waiting for her to come to him.

Ophelia takes her time getting dressed, relishing the moments of quiet before they plunge into the chaos of the day. She selects a simple yet elegant gown, one that will appease her parents without being over the top. Her fingers deftly fasten buttons and adjust fabric, her mind wandering back to their honeymoon. A soft sigh escapes her lips as she remembers the stolen moments in that private paradise. It all ended much too soon.

As she finishes preparing herself, she gazes into the mirror, a fond smile playing on her lips. Kaillas's words warm her heart. "You're not too shabby yourself," she teases, crossing the room to take his hand. The warmth of his touch sends a thrill down her spine, reminding her of the countless times they've shared these intimate moments.

She cherishes these moments when it's just the two of them, away from the prying eyes of the world. She can see the desire in Kaillas's eyes, and it mirrors her own. But for now, they must attend to their duties. They’ll be rid of her parents soon enough.

The day's duties and responsibilities beckon, but in this brief interlude, they savor the connection they share. Ophelia leans down to kiss him gently, her lips soft and inviting. "Let's get this over with, shall we?”

Kaillas took her hand as she reached it out to him and brought it to his lips. He placed a gentle kiss on the back of her hand, eyes trained on her face as he did so. His wife's beauty could rival that of the gods, but he was smart enough to keep that comment to himself. He heard the myths and legends of their rath when compared with mortals. He wouldn't dare set any of them on his precious wife.

"Thank you, my love. I need to at least try to look as though I'm worthy to stand by your side. My usual clothes just won't cut it anymore." He stood, placing her hand on the crook of his arm so he could lead her out of their rooms.

"Let's, darling. And be rid of our thorn in our side." And he prayed that with her parent's absent presence, she would feel more comfortable to be herself out int he public's eye. He could see how tense she was during all the gatherings where her parents were present. He had seen the shift in her the days leading up to their arrival. He hoped that now she would be able to relax now that she was out of their scrutiny.

He perhaps walked a little slower than need be through the halls, savoring his last few moments alone with his wife before they joined the little farewell party made of the members of the council to see off her parents.

Ophelia's heart flutters at the warmth of Kaillas' lips on her hand, and she meets his gaze with a fond and appreciative smile. His affectionate gesture fills her with a sense of adoration for the man she's chosen to share her life with. His words are a sweet melody to her ears, and she knows that she's found a true partner who values her beyond her external beauty.

As she allows him to guide her, their connection deepens with the touch of his arm beneath her hand. She can't help but feel a wave of gratitude for his understanding and support. It's as though he can read her very soul, recognizing the unease she has often felt in her parents' presence. She can finally be herself, her guard down, when not under their scrutinizing gaze.

In these precious moments, Ophelia cherishes the quiet intimacy she shares with Kaillas, knowing that the world beyond their door is waiting. She leans in a little closer, her eyes reflecting her love and appreciation. The thought of parting ways with her parents, who had been a constant presence, is bittersweet, but she's ready to embrace the new chapter in her life, unburdened by their expectations and judgments.

As they walk through the halls, she marvels at the peaceful serenity of the castle, so different from the tense gatherings of the past. The weight of her parents' influence is fading away, and she finds herself feeling lighter, free to be the woman she wants to be alongside the man she loves. These moments alone with Kaillas are a sanctuary of love and understanding, and she can't help but look forward to the future, unburdened by the thorns of the past.

It isn’t long before they arrive in the courtyard. Everyone else has gathered so it seems as though they’re a little late. Oh well. It was well worth it to spend those few extra minutes with him.

Kaillas ignored the disapproving look from Ambrose and the rest of his council. Some were more subtle than other. And the looks wouldn't have gone unnoticed from the visiting king and queen. However, he didn't care. He was the king. And if that meant he couldn't be late some mornings than what was the point of the crown? He wasn't late. He always arrived exactly when he wanted to, which meant he was on time and everyone else was early.

He stopped in front of Ophelia's crown, the warm smile now absent on his lips. They did not deserve his smiles or any looks of kindness from him. They should be grateful he let them stay here. It was oh so tempting to house them in the stables for the night. Unfortunately, he couldn't afford to be fighting another enemy. One was more than enough for him right now.

He didn't speak, rather letting his wife do the talking for him. He wasn't in a talking mood. At least not to them. Not when they were the reason his wife had to put on clothes and they had to leave their rooms.

He looked down at his wife, some warmth returning to his eyes as he gazed upon her. All he had to do was look at her and she affected him. If only she truly knew what she did to him.

Ophelia stands composed, her parents before her and her husband by her side, though the tension in the air is palpable. She acknowledges the disapproving looks from the council with a practiced politeness, her gaze cool and distant. Their judgment has grown all too familiar over the years, but she's learned not to let it affect her demeanor.

"Thank you for your visit, Mother, Father," Ophelia utters with an air of civility. Her smile is strained but graceful, concealing the discord that often simmers beneath the surface. She's relieved that their departure is imminent. The weight of her parents' expectations and demands has always been a source of strain for her, and she looks forward to reclaiming her freedom.

As her eyes meet her father's, she offers a nod, acknowledging the lessons he's imparted throughout her life. She has grown into her own person, shaped not only by her parents' teachings but also by her own choices and experiences. The life she's forged with Kaillas is a testament to her independence and determination.

The king and queen stand at the grand entrance of the castle, their expressions carefully composed, as they bid farewell to their daughter. The golden rays of the morning sun cast a warm glow upon the scene. With regal grace, they exchange polite words and affectionate gestures, but there is an underlying disapproval in their eyes. Their daughter, resplendent in her elegant gown, has chosen a path divergent from their expectations, and they cannot hide their disappointment.

Though they leave without a fuss, this is far from over. Their plans have merely just begun.

Kaillas inclined his head in a way that communicated he seconded his wife's words. He should say something. That would be the kingly thing to do. To bid them farewell and wish them safe travels. And he was a king. So he really should do just that. Even if it killed him inside to do it. Civility. He promised to be civil. And he would hold up his end of the bargain.

"Thank you for joining us and celebrating Ophelia's birthday. I hope your journey home is a quick one." He hoped that they would leave quickly. The sooner they left the better. The guards would feel at ease and so would Kaillas. Likely the whole court would. They never had done well with outsiders. Not for years. Not even before his family's assassination, though it was better before those events transpired.

He didn't raise a hand and wave them off. He merely stood there with a stoic face as they got into their carriage and rose off past the gates. He only exhaled and relaxed, if only slightly, as they disappeared from view. He turned to his wife, smiling. "Now that they are gone, I have one last surprise in store for you. Are you ready?"

He was perhaps even more excited about this surprise than the one last night. Last night he had been riddled with nerves and anxiety. He hadn't known the outcome. This one, he did. At least to a point, that was. He knew she would love it.

Ophelia smiles gracefully as she listens to her husband's words, well aware of the internal struggle he faces. She appreciates his effort to maintain decorum and civility, especially with their departing guests. It truly is hard to remain civil with her parents. She places a reassuring hand on his arm, a silent acknowledgment of the complexities they navigate. "Thank you," she says, her voice warm and gentle. "I'm sure we won’t be seeing them again for quite some time." She knows the discomfort the presence of her parents can bring to the court, and she, too, is relieved to see them depart.

As the carriage disappears beyond the castle gates, her gaze follows it for a moment, then turns to her husband, curious about the surprise he promises. His smile ignites her curiosity, and she nods eagerly. "I'm ready, Kaillas," she replies, her eyes filled with anticipation. Last night’s surprise can’t possibly be topped, but she still cant help but wonder what he has in store for her now. Her heart swells with affection for her king, who always knows how to make her feel cherished.

Though she certainly didn’t expect yet another surprise, she has to admit that she’s curious. Everything else was truly spectacular so whatever this is must be amazing as well. Whatever it is, she's certain it will be as thoughtful and heartfelt as everything else, and she's eager to experience it. She knows that, in Kaillas, she has not just a king but a loving partner who continually finds ways to make her feel special. And as he leads her toward the next surprise, her heart flutters with excitement and love for the man who's made her life a fairytale.

Kaillas hoped that he would never see them again, but even he knew that was wistful thinking. As soon as news came that she was with child, they would be right back on their way here. Or perhaps they would wait until the child was born. He knew they valued boys over girls. Though quite frankly, Kaillas was hoping they would have a girl first. He was hoping they would have a horde of little girls for him to spoil and love. But as long as the baby was happy and healthy, he would be alright with whatever they had.

"I hope you're right darling." He turned to look down at her. He felt like he needed a few years before he would be ready to face them and deal with them. And even that might not be enough time. All he wanted to do was grab them by the shoulders and shake them while yelling at them for what they had done wot his beautiful wife. She was intelligent and kind and made a great queen. She would have been a wonderful ruler, if only they had passed the crown to her instead of some cousin. But it was too late now. They had given her to him and he wasn't letting her go.

He grinned down at her. Instead of leading her back into the palace, he led her around the side to the stables. This wasn't any present he could fit inside the palace. Well, he could, but he might terrify some countries and maid staff. And he like his staff a little too much to want to scare them away with this.

Ophelia gazes up at Kaillas, her heart heavy with the knowledge of what might be awaiting them. Her parents will be back. That much is certain. The moment it’s announced that she’s with child, they’ll regain interest in her existence. Whether or not they show up during or pregnancy or after the birth remains unknown. Either way, she is not looking forward to it. Especially if the child is a girl. While Kaillas would be delighted to have a daughter, she does not look forward to the grief her parents would give her. She intertwines her fingers with his and offers a reassuring smile, not wanting to think about that.

As they walk towards the stables, she notices the gleam in his eyes and can't help but feel curious. She's always appreciated his penchant for surprises. "What have you got hidden in those stables, Kaillas?” she asks with a playful glint in her eyes, her thoughts momentarily distracted from the looming challenges ahead.

Once they reach the stables, she follows him inside, the scent of hay and the sound of horses providing a soothing atmosphere. She looks forward to being able to see Cheesecake, even if that isn’t the point of this visit. The stallion always brings a smile to her face with his sweet and loving nature.

Kaillas just gave her a grin. He wasn't saying a word until they got inside the stables where her present was awaiting her. Obviously, some of them would have to be relocated but the stables was just the easiest place to bring them all. She could decide what to do with them all when she finally saw them.

As they neared the stables, he stopped and placed his hands over her eyes. "Trust me," he murmured, kissing her cheek. The closer they neared, the more his present was giving themselves away. He should have known the canaries and doves wouldn't be able to keep quiet. They were birds. It was a little hard to train them to be quiet.

Once they entered the stables, he removed his hands and stepped back. The animal transporter was standing there with cages of three gods, four cats, and a handful of doves and canaries. He smiled down at Ophelia. "I did say I was good at getting what I wanted, darling." It had taken perhaps a little more arguing and better trade negotiations to get them but he had done it. For his wife, he would do anything.

Ophelia giggles at Kaillas's playful secrecy, her curiosity piqued with each step they take towards the stables. The faint sounds of chirping and cooing reach her ears, and her heart quickens in anticipation. As he covers her eyes and kisses her cheek, she leans into his touch, trusting him completely.

When the moment of revelation comes and he removes his hands, she blinks in astonishment at the array of creatures before her. Her eyes widen, and her face lights up with sheer delight and shock. Tears of happiness well up in her eyes as she takes in the sight of her beloved dogs, cats, rabbits, and birds. Overwhelmed with emotion, she rushes forward, her arms reaching out to embrace them.

Her dogs, tails wagging furiously, leap up to greet her with bounding enthusiasm, their joyful barks filling the air. She kneels down, embracing them one by one, feeling their soft fur and their warm, wet kisses on her face. It's a moment of pure, unadulterated happiness as she whispers sweet words of love to each of them.

Her cats, sleek and graceful, rub against her legs, purring in contentment as she strokes their fur. The birds flutter and sing, filling the stables with their melodic tunes, clearly delighted as well. She also takes a moment to greet her rabbits, their fluffy, twitching noses and soft ears bringing a sense of serenity to her soul.

Tears stream down her face and all she can manage to do is say ‘thank you’ over and over again as she tries to choke back her sobs.

(This was so sweet but holy shit it took forever for me to hunt down the names of all of these animals XD)

(I controlled F until I found the first ball when she told ambrose about them XD)

Kaillas took a step back, putting his hands in his pockets as he watched his wife greet her beloved animals. It had taken a lot of arguing and perhaps a little threatening to get them but he would do anything for Ophelia. She missed her pets and wanted them dearly. So he got them back for her. Never mind the fact that he promised her parents they would have a child soon to get them. What they didn't know wouldn't hurt them.

As he heard her cry, he smiled and approached her. He crouched down beside her and placed a hand on her back, silently comforting her. He kissed the top of her head before looking at all the pets. "I think your presents will have to wait another day to be opened." He suspected she would be spending all day reuniting with them all.

"The birds will go to the aviary for whenever you would like to see them. The rabbits will likely have to stay in the stables. But the cats and dogs are yours to decide where to keep them."

(Girl that is so much smarter than what my dumbass did XD)

Ophelia's heart is overflowing with love and gratitude as she greets each of her cherished animals. The dogs' exuberant affection, the cats' gentle purring, the birds' melodious songs, and the rabbits' soft fur are a symphony of joy that fills her soul. She gazes at Kaillas, her eyes shimmering with tears of happiness, knowing the lengths he went to for her, and she's overwhelmed by his thoughtfulness.

As he crouches beside her and places a comforting hand on her back, she leans into his touch, her heart brimming with love for him. His kiss on her head is a sweet reassurance, and she smiles through her tears. "Kaillas, you've made me the happiest woman in the world. I can't thank you enough for bringing my beloved pets back to me." She turns her gaze to the animals once more, feeling like the luckiest person alive.

His words about her presents make her nod, still overwhelmed by the emotion of the reunion. "I want to spend time with them all today. Thank you for making all of this possible. I'll decide what to do with them soon, but for now, I just want to be with them, and with you." Her voice is filled with love and gratitude as she looks up at him, her heart full to bursting.

(XD XD)

Kaillas smiled down at her. "I thought I already did that last night," he teased, hoping to bring a stop to her tears. Even if he knew that they were good ones, it still hurt his heart to see them. He didn't want her to cry. Her face was too beautiful for tears. He raised his hand and gently wiped them from her face.

He stroked her back soothingly before turning back to all the animals. She truly was an animal lover. He had a feeling that one day their palace would be overrun by all the different pets she had. That was alright, because he would be the one that bought them all for her. Anything to make his wife happy. "You can stay here as long as you would like with them. I've already cleared your schedule for today."

Unfortunately, his schedule was not cleared. He wouldn't be able to stay here for much longer. He was able to clear her schedule by taking on her work load for the day. It would be difficult but manageable. He just might be getting to bed later than usual tonight. And skipping lunch. And possibly dinner. But it wasn't new to him to do such a thing and it was all worth it to see her happiness.

Ophelia's tears slowly subside as Kaillas's teasing and tender touch offer her comfort. She smiles through the remaining moisture in her eyes, truly appreciative of his efforts to cheer her up. "You did. And yet you continue to surprise me with the most wonderful things," she replies with a sheepish laugh, her voice filled with genuine affection for him.

As he continues to soothe her back and they stand together among her beloved animals, her heart swells with gratitude. "Thank you, Kaillas. You've given me the most wonderful gift today, and I can't tell you how much it means to me." She knows he understands her love for these creatures, and she's touched by his willingness to make her happiness a priority.

His words about clearing her schedule for the day catch her by surprise, and she gazes up at him with appreciation. "You've thought of everything, haven't you? I truly am the luckiest woman to have you as my husband. But please, don't overwork yourself on my behalf. You deserve some rest too." Her voice is filled with concern as she reaches out to touch his cheek, her love for him as evident as ever.