Coronation's date came almost too fast. I made sure it was a grand and solemn event, yet my nervousness was obvious.
"I wish you the best of luck." Valleria smiled at me from the opened door, ignoring the fact I was still half dressed.
"Aren't you coming to the cathedral to see how much I can fuck it up?" A surprise washed over me when I saw her simple gown.
"I wouldn't possibly dare. Only nobles, clergy, and dignitaries from across the kingdom might attend. I will look from outside -" She smiled and sat not too far from me, watching my servants running around with my clothes, but I jumped into her speech.
"Nonsense. I want you to sit in the front row, in my mother's spot, she won't be there anyway -"
"No. I'll wait for the coronation to end and only then, I'll see you. You might ignore the traditions, but there is no way for me to do the same."
I couldn't help but laugh. She was adorable in her sweet stubbornness.
"I won't force you then."
"It's good to hear. I promise to join you in the celebrations." Her soft smile popped up on her lips and she excused herself soon after.
I stood at the altar in the grand cathedral, my heart raced with a mix of excitement and nerves. The ceremony was flawless, and as I took my place on the throne, glancing out at the crowd, I couldn't help but search for Valleria.
But I didn't see her anywhere. Not among the people during the public appearance, even the second day when the tournament and jousts were held. Valleria was simply nowhere to be found.
I tried to spot her in the feast room, but it was almost impossible, among all those people.
As the days passed, my concern grew. Where could she be? Had something happened to her? I couldn't shake off the unease that was starting to settle in my gut. Finally, on the third day of celebrations, I was about to ease my fear.
Banquet was boring and I fought to stay awake, until I saw her. She was dancing with some nobleman just a few minutes ago and suddenly she disappeared again. I tried to find her again, but to no avail. I only noticed Peter, who was standing at the side entrance to the gardens, alternately checking the hall and the terrace. I stood up and rushed out at a brisk pace.
She stood by the stone railing, looking up at the evening sky.
"Valleria." I addressed her, and when she turned to me, I stepped closer.
I couldn't stand her gaze, so I gave up. I stepped so close to her that her scooped skirt rested against my shins. I leaned down to her lips and kissed her deeply.
Her eyes widened in surprise and a blush spread across her face as I allowed her to breathe. I pulled her closer to me and could clearly hear her racing heart despite the music, voices and laughter pouring in through the open patio door. I was drawn to her as if I had no control over my own body. I let my fingers roam across the fabric of her dress and bent down to steal another kiss from her.
"I need to think." She said desperately and pulled away from me before I could touch her lips again "Come to my room. Tomorrow morning." She demanded, leaving me standing alone on the terrace.