Third Arc (Fallen Heart) - 348. Someone Has To Keep You in Check
Rose felt her heart swell at his words. She hadn't expected him to be so open, so honest about why he had chosen her, and it made her realize just how deeply he valued her as more than just a figure at his side. For Angel, this wasn't just about appearances or alliances. It was about finding someone who could stand beside him through the trials and the chaos, someone who understood that this life wasn't easy and never would be.
She took a breath, steadying herself, and replied, "I'm grateful that you see me that way. It means more than I can say, Angel. But sometimes… I wonder if I can really be what you need. If I'll ever be enough to fulfill everything this kingdom expects of a queen."
Angel's hand reached out, resting over hers, his touch firm and reassuring. "You already are," he said simply.
Rose's lips curled into a soft smile. His words warmed her heart, but she could also see the exhaustion etched into his features. She gave his hand a gentle squeeze and leaned back slightly. "Let's stop the chit chat here," she said with a teasing tone. "You need to eat first and then take a rest. You can't keep doing this, Angel. It would be bad if the king himself looked unfit at his queen's coronation."
Angel let out a small chuckle. "Fine," he said, picking up his fork again. "But after this, I have to continue my work. Just a little bit more."
Rose's playful smile faded into a mock frown, her brows knitting together in disapproval. "You need to rest, Angel. You can't keep pushing yourself like this."
He held up a hand, as though making a solemn promise. "Just ten more minutes. I won't take long, I promise."
Rose sighed, knowing this was as much of a concession as she would get from him tonight. "Fine," she relented, standing up from her seat. "I'll wait for you in the chamber. If you're not back in half an hour, I'll come back here myself."
Angel raised an eyebrow, a flicker of amusement crossing his tired face. "You're giving me an ultimatum now?"
"Yes," Rose said firmly, crossing her arms but allowing a small smile to soften her tone. "Because someone has to keep you in check."
He chuckled, his eyes crinkling slightly at the corners. "Fine. Half an hour. I'll be there."
Satisfied, Rose nodded and turned to leave. She closed the door behind her, leaning against it for a moment as she let out a soft breath. She knew Angel's promise of "ten minutes" would likely stretch, but at least she had gotten him to pause, to eat, even if only for a little while.
She glanced at the servants still lingering nearby, their eyes darting between her and the food trolley with a mixture of curiosity and respect. Straightening her posture, she addressed them in a calm but firm voice.
"The king is still eating," she said, her tone leaving no room for doubt. "Wait until he calls for you to clear the dishes. He doesn't like to be disturbed." Angel's study contained sensitive documents, so he didn't let just anyone into his study room.
The servants bowed in unison. "Yes, Your Highness," one of them replied, their voices respectful but brisk.
Rose gave a small nod of acknowledgment and turned on her heel, making her way toward the chamber. She reached their chamber. Rose moved toward the wardrobe, her fingers trailing over the cool wood as she opened it to retrieve her nightgown.
She decided to take a bath while she waited for him, hoping the warm water would help her relax and ease the tension she had been carrying throughout the day. She let out a quiet sigh, leaning back against the smooth edge of the tub.
For a moment, she allowed herself to close her eyes, her thoughts drifting. Images of the party, the endless scrutinizing gazes, and the whispered conversations flitted through her mind. The nobles' attempts to align themselves with her had been as transparent as they were exhausting. It was a game she had been trained to play, but it still wore on her, especially now, with the coronation so close.
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