The following morning, Alaina awoke to the melodic trills of autumn birds serenading her from the vantage of her windowsill. Surprisingly, the revelations and whirlwind of wedding preparations from the previous day had not disturbed her slumber, and she had enjoyed a restful night. Beneath the covers, she stretched her long, graceful legs, luxuriating in the sensation of the fabric caressing her supple skin. Casting off the sheets, she reached for her robe, slipped it on, and left the cocoon of her bed's warmth. The crisp air that greeted her sent shivers down her spine, raising goosebumps on her arms.
Drawn to the crackling embers in the fireplace, she approached the hearth to bask in the comforting warmth. Alaina's gaze fell upon the wildflowers Gareth had tenderly gifted her the day before, a bouquet that brought a smile to her lips. The arrangement was a delicate symphony of nature's beauty, featuring blue cornflowers whose vivid petals splayed like slender rays around a deep indigo centre. The red carnations among them added passion to the bouquet, with their frilled petals folding inward as if concealing secrets of the heart. In contrast, purple foxgloves soared gracefully, their tubular blossoms adorned with speckled throats ranging from shades of deep lavender to aubergine.
Alaina reached out to gently cradle the fragile petals within her hands, marvelling at the extraordinary elegance and the whispered promises of love that bloomed within their vivid hues.
"Zora?" she called out to her servant. Within moments, she heard a knock on her door, and Zora peeped inside.
"Yes, my lady?" she asked, smiling earnestly.
"Has my father left for Hann Aisle already? I must have overslept."
"Indeed, his lordship left at dawn. He informed us not to wake you." Alaina frowned with disappointment. She wanted to send her father off on his journey. She wondered if he had explained the change in plans to the prince.
"Could you prepare a basin for me? I would like to have a wash and take a tour of my homelands." A pang of sadness and regret weighed heavily upon Alaina as she recognised that she had not ventured beyond the castle's confines since her arrival. She yearned to explore the town and discover the land that was her home—a home from which she felt inexplicably disconnected. Her heart ached as if mourning a cherished past that had vanished from her memories, like the delicate remnants of a dream that dissolved with the morning light.
The realisations unsettled her, stirring a striving desire to reconnect with her roots and rediscover the essence of her home that had been lost to the passage of time. Her lack of familiarity with her surroundings gnawed at her spirit, fueling a deep-seated longing to bridge the chasm that had formed between herself and the land about which she knew so little. With determination kindling in her heart, she resolved to visit the town and begin the journey toward uncovering the hidden tapestry of home and history that still lay dormant within her.
"Certainly, my lady, I will inform Gareth immediately so he can arrange a chaperone."
"Chaperone?" Alaina shot Zora a quizzical look, raising her eyebrow. "These are my lands; I am certain that a chaperone is unnecessary."
Zora looked down at her feet, shuffling them awkwardly, trying to find the right words.
"I am afraid those are his orders." Zora's expression was sombre. Alaina felt a twinge of irritation but decided not to dispute.
"Very well, please inform Gareth that I would like to walk around the town today."
Zora smiled and nodded. She hurried away to prepare the wash basin.
Alaina walked towards the window, pulling her robe tighter around her body. She opened the windows wider to look at the scenery. The sky was grey, showing the tell-tale signs that it had rained the night before. The grass and cobblestones were still wet from the night showers. A wind chill blew into the room, hitting coldly against her face. She felt her cheeks prick against the gust. Perhaps the drought was finally over. There was a knock on the door, and Zora entered with a wash basin filled with hot water and a new dress. Alaina had silently hoped it would be warm enough for her outdoor walk.
"My lady, Gareth said he would chaperone you to the town. He is waiting in the great hall," said Zora as she placed the wash basin on the table and laid the dress on the bed. "I will return with another shawl, for it is quite cold today", she continued and hurriedly left the room.
To Alaina's surprise, it was Gareth himself who volunteered to escort her visit. Anticipation and anxiety mingled within her, causing her stomach to twist into nervous knots at the prospect of spending the day in his company. She resolved to steel herself against his beguiling charm, not allowing his alluring gaze to weaken her. Despite her caution, she couldn't help but feel a spark of joy upon seeing him; after all, she owed him her gratitude for the flowers. With their wedding approaching, she recognised that the day's outing presented a valuable opportunity to know him better before they exchanged their vows.
As Alaina prepared for the day, Zora brought her a cosy, woollen shawl and laid it on the bed. She helped Alaina into her dress and whisked away the nightgown to be laundered and pressed. Draped in her elegant attire, Alaina made her way through the castle's grand corridors. She noted that, on the surface, the only indication of the recent upheaval was the presence of large, sturdy northern men roaming the halls. Despite their formidable appearance, they were unexpectedly courteous, offering respectful greetings as she passed.
Upon reaching the great hall, Alaina spotted Gareth standing near the entryway, engaged in lively conversation with an elderly male servant. She watched as the servant chuckled heartily while Gareth gestured enthusiastically, seeming utterly at ease as if he had always been part of her world. He was dressed in light leather armour that left his muscular arms bare and loose-fitting trousers. She couldn't help but wonder how he managed to remain impervious to the chilly air with so much exposed skin.
"Good morning, Gareth," Alaina said as she approached them. The servant nodded and wished her good morning before leaving.
"Good morning, Alaina." Gareth smiled. He reached out slowly to her, making her flinch in reflex. He paused, his eyes giving no sign of evil intent.
"May I?" he gestured to her shawl. Alaina blinked and allowed him to pull the shawl over her shoulders properly.
"I have something for you," he said, grinning like an excited boy. He gently locked his arm through hers and led her outside the castle. Her heart leapt when she saw two beautiful horses waiting for them. The petite female horse was entirely white and looked like she was covered in powdery snow. Alaina fell in love with her instantly.
"Thank you, Gareth! She is magnificent!" exclaimed Alaina as she hurried over to the horse and patted her snout. The horse leaned into her hand and nuzzled her gently. Gareth walked over to the other larger male horse, solid brown like dark chocolate. Its mane was shining black. He patted his own horse's snout, and it huffed in appreciation.
"Your horse is the daughter of Mercy", he smiled, looking at her for a response. But there was none. Alaina was busy prepping her saddle to mount her.
"You may not remember, but Mercy was your horse when you were a child", Gareth continued, still searching her face for any recollection. Alaina gave him a puzzled look and beckoned him to explain further.
"When you had your accident, Mercy was doomed for the slaughterhouse because her front legs were broken."
"How do you know this?" asked Alaina, genuinely confused. She saw his face falter, wondering if he should explain the truth.
"The stable master managed to nurse her back to health so she could walk again. But because she was weak, she could not be of use to the duchy. The stable master kept her as his farm horse. He managed to breed her once, and she had one filly." Gareth reached out to the white horse and stroked her muscled neck affectionately.
"What happened to Mercy?"
"She passed not long after having her filly."
Alaina's face grew sad at the passing of her childhood horse, even though she had no memories of her. Seeing Alaina's sad expression, he decided to lighten the mood.
"Well, she does not have a name yet", he smiled, "go ahead and name her. She is yours." A wide smile formed on Alaina's face, and she pressed her forehead to the horse.
"I will name her Joy." The mare huffed as if she approved of her new name. Alaina mounted Joy in a flash and pulled the reins to direct her. "So, are we going to ride or stay here chatting all day?" she grinned, her eyes sparkling excitedly. Her playful tone made Gareth chuckle as he mounted his horse.
"Lead the way, my lady." he laughed.
Gareth's laughter was like warm honey cascading gently into the air. As Alaina heard it, she felt an intoxicating blend of embarrassment and pleasure unfurling in the pit of her stomach, causing her cheeks to flush. Eager to keep moving, she tugged on Joy's reins and nudged the stirrup, urging her steed forward along the cobblestone path bordered by verdant grass. Gareth trailed close behind, effortlessly matching her swifter pace.
He couldn't resist admiring how her lustrous red hair danced with the wind as they rode. Her presence stirred within him a torrent of childhood memories longing to surface. Sensing his gaze, Alaina turned to look at him, her cheeks rosier still from the crisp autumn air. After enduring days of uncertainty, mental strain, and the looming spectre of her former betrothal to the prince, she cherished this invigorating interlude from her troubles.
She loved the exhilarating thrill of horseback riding and the unwavering sense of freedom and empowerment it conferred upon her. As her exuberant, melodic laughter reached his ears, it filled his heart with a warmth as radiant and poignant as the sun.
She is home, he thought, his emotions swelling with conviction and devotion.
My love is home.
They rode to a large intersection with a statue of one of the former dukes of Dunkeld. Alaina slowed down, unsure of where to go. Gareth slowed down next to her, waiting for her next instruction.
"Where to, my lady?" he asked, holding his waterskin and taking a large gulp. He passed the waterskin to Alaina, who also took a large gulp.
"How embarrassing for a duchess to not even know her lands." she frowned in disappointment. She returned the waterskin to Gareth and looked at the three different paths.
"Which way is the town centre?"
"That would be straight ahead. The stables and servants' quarters are on the left. The right leads towards the side exit of the castle walls into the open fields and farmlands." Gareth explained as he pointed in various directions. Alaina kicked her stirrup and urged Joy towards the direction of the town centre, with Gareth following closely behind. They proceeded on a slow trot.
"How do you know so much about these lands?" she asked, genuinely curious. She brushed a few stray strands of hair away from her rosy face and looked at him.
"I used to live here a long time ago," he said. Alaina looked at him in bewilderment.
"So, you are not a northerner?"
"I do not know much about my parents. The stable master adopted me when I was an infant. My parents were killed during one of the minor invasions of Dunkeld. I was told they were northerners, but I am not certain."
"And you lived in the servants' quarters at this castle as a child?"
"Yes." Gareth's voice was soft and guarded, as if he was unsure how she would receive this information.
"I've heard I spent much of my time among the horse and stables when I was little," she said, her eyes sparkling with mirth. "My father always claimed I carried their scent." Her laughter, as sweet as a silver bell, drifted through the air. Gareth's heart swelled with affection as he recalled their shared childhood days. He longed to confess that, to him, she bore the fragrance of wildflowers after a spring shower. Yet he hesitated, afraid his words might change how she saw him.
Born without title or fortune, Gareth was a humble orphan who had worked his way up to lead one of the mightiest northern tribes. Through shrewd trades and alliances, he had accumulated his considerable wealth. Still, he grappled with whether to reveal more to her as his heart battled against his mind. He also dreaded her learning the truth about the accident, fearing that if she discovered it had been his idea to race, she might come to despise him. After all, had he not urged her to race through the rain-soaked fields, the tragedy would have never occurred.
"Surely, you must have seen me then, as a child," she said, her lips curling into a warm smile.
His gaze lingered on her radiant beauty, untamed as the wind that played with her tresses. The sun cast a heavenly halo around her, and he vowed to cherish this image of her for all eternity.
"We should head to the town centre while it is still busy. The vendors and merchants leave earlier during the colder months."
He decided against telling her the truth just yet. He wanted to ease the information slowly and not bombard her with the truth. It broke his heart that she had no memories of him, which made him strive harder to win her affection. He guided the reins of his horse and picked up some pace to move forward.
"You're supposed to be following me, remember?" she laughed again and sped past him; Joy's hooves clopped loudly against the cobblestone.
Upon reaching the enchanting town centre of Dunkeld, they gracefully dismounted their noble steeds and entrusted the reins to a kindly tavern keeper. With eyes wide in awe, a small boy hurried to fill the horses' trough with clear, cool water and provide them with fresh, golden hay. Gareth, his heart generous and his spirit genteel pressed a gleaming gold coin into the boy's hand, earning a beaming smile in return.
Alaina wrapped her shawl, woven from the softest wool, snugly around her delicate shoulders as they entered the bustling town. Her eyes danced with excitement and wonder, and her laughter was a melody that brightened the air. Though the town centre was much smaller than the grand marketplace of Hann Aisle, it possessed a rustic charm and warmth that Alaina found irresistible.
Nestled within the embrace of ancient trees, Dunkeld's town centre was a tapestry of life and colour. Cobblestone streets wound like rivers through the heart of the village, flanked by half-timbered houses adorned with vibrant flowers in their window boxes. Vendors proudly manned their stalls, each a treasure trove of unique wares, as they called out prices and enticements in cheerful voices.
Ever vigilant and protective, Gareth remained close to Alaina's side as they navigated the busy streets. Though their conquest had been one of minimal bloodshed, whispers of discontent could still be heard among the murmurs of the crowd. In these uncertain times, he would not risk her safety for even a moment, especially in the company of her loyal subjects.
As they strolled through the town, various patrons and stall owners greeted their beloved duchess with enthusiastic waves and heartfelt salutations. Alaina revelled in the affection of her people, often pausing to admire the finely crafted goods or engage in warm conversation with the townsfolk. And with each tender exchange, the bond between the duchess and her people grew even stronger.
"I can't believe they remember who I am!" she whispered excitedly to Gareth, smiling happily.
"You are hard to forget, my lady", he replied. She had come so close to him to whisper that he could smell the floral aroma of her hair. Little wisps of her red locks brushed against his forearm, making his breath catch in his throat. He had wanted to give her a respectful distance as they were not yet wed, but Alaina was the one who calmly linked her arm through his. It made him happy to think he had finally made her feel comfortable.
Alaina held on to Gareth's arm as though it was the most normal thing to do. She was surprised at how at ease he made her feel. She enjoyed seeing him candidly chatting with the merchants and buying the various trinkets that caught her attention.
The day was going splendidly until five drunken men came around the corner, wielding weapons. The crowd backed away from the band of malcontents, and an eerie silence fell upon them. Gareth pulled Alaina behind him protectively.
"Barbarian!" spat one of the men. He reeked of alcohol, and his face was flushed. He charged to Gareth, with the four other men following closely behind. Gareth stood tall and confident, his hand resting on the hilt of his sword at his waist.
"Go back to your drinks, lads. There's no need for any trouble," Gareth said calmly, gesturing towards the tavern they came from.
"You think you can just walk through our land as though you own it?" one of the four men said, spitting on the ground.
"I said, step back. There need not be any trouble," Gareth asserted again, raising his voice.
"Go back to your shit hole, your northern dog!" spat another of the four men. Alaina gasped from behind Gareth, clutching onto his armour. He felt her cower fearfully behind him, making his anger rise.
"Is that the way you talk in front of your duchess?" Gareth cocked his eyebrow while his hand gripped his hilt tighter.
"She is not our duchess if she lays with the likes of you. She is no better than a common whore," hurled the leader of the men, a despicable grin formed on his face. Alaina's heart pounded in her chest.
As the dark rage within him reached a boiling point, Gareth's muscles tensed like coiled springs, ready to unleash his fury. He launched toward the assailant, who wore a sneer that betrayed his malice. Gripping the man's coarse hair tightly in his iron grip, Gareth lifted him off the ground, his feet dangling helplessly in the air. The man's eyes widened with terror, reflecting the realisation of his impending doom.
Gareth drew back his fist, its power coiled and waiting to hit like a serpent poised to strike. With a primal grunt, he unleashed his wrath in a wide, devastating arc that seemed to tear through the very fabric of the air. The force of the blow collided with the man's trembling face, the sound of bone and sinew giving way beneath Gareth's unyielding strength.
The world seemed to slow as the man's jaw crumbled under the assault, shattered beyond recognition. Blood sprayed through the air like crimson rain, painting the earth with the violent hues of retribution. The man's body crumpled to the ground, a broken shell robbed of consciousness, his jaw hanging grotesquely from his battered visage.
A collective gasp erupted from the surrounding crowd, as if the breath had been stolen from their lungs. They retreated from the scene, the awe and fear in their eyes revealing the power they had just witnessed. Alaina's hands flew to her face, covering her aghast expression as she stared in disbelief at the man who had dared to threaten her, now lying defeated at Gareth's feet.
"Do you have anything else to say?" Gareth gestured towards the other four men, who were backing away. "I will not tolerate disrespect towards her ladyship unless you want to have the same fate as your friend." Gareth kicked the groaning man, rolling on the floor, breaking some of his ribs.
When there was silence amongst the crowd, Gareth continued, "We have provided aid to your lands. We have fed your people." he gestured towards the rest of the crowd. "I have made sure it was a peaceful takeover of the kingdom. Do not make me reconsider." His voice was frightening and commanding. The four men came forward to pick up their injured companion and sheepishly backed away into a vacant alley.
"Pitiful," spat Gareth as he wiped his bloodied fist on his trousers. The crowd continued to whisper amongst themselves at his threatening remark. Slowly, they dispersed, not before turning back to look at Gareth in fear.
Gareth heard Alaina's frightened whimpers behind him. He pulled her in by her waist and held her close to him protectively.
"You are safe with me, Alaina", he whispered into her hair. She stared up at him with frightened eyes. He leaned down and kissed her forehead, making her shiver. She instinctively clutched at his armour, not wanting to let go.
"Let's get our horses and return to the castle", he murmured into her hair. She nodded silently and walked with him; he never released his grasp from around her waist.
Upon their return to the sanctuary of the castle, Alaina could at last let her guard down. Their journey home was quiet, but Gareth's unwavering presence by her side offered comfort and protection. The incident at the market had left her bewildered and distressed, as she had believed her people to be grateful for the assistance and alliance provided by the men of the North. To hear herself called such a vile name had been a dagger to her tender heart.
As they arrived within the castle walls, Gareth displayed his chivalrous nature by helping her dismount Joy with ease. His strong, calloused hands cradled her body, setting her gently on the ground as if she were the most delicate of treasures. Sensing her shivers, borne of cold and lingering fear, he drew the shawl around her more snugly, wrapping her in warmth and safety.
Unable to resist, Gareth pulled her close into his embrace, a haven of solace amid the storm of emotions that threatened to consume her. Alaina welcomed his touch as his strong arms enveloped her, banishing her fears and insecurities. Nestled against his broad chest, she breathed in the comforting, musky scent unmistakably his own.
With a soft, grateful sigh, she murmured her thanks, her words a whisper of silk against his skin.
"There will always be those who are ungrateful," he said quietly as if reading her mind. She peered at him through her long lashes, willing her eyes to stop welling with tears. Did they think that way about her? That she was just a barbarian's whore? The words of those men stung her soul. She wanted so much to be loved by her people. It broke her heart knowing that all the years that she was living a life of luxury and comfort in Hann Aisle, her people, on the other hand, were suffering and starving under her father's lack of leadership. Gareth stroked her back gently, easing the tension in her bones.
"They adore you, Alaina. Never doubt that, even for an instant," he whispered tenderly into her silken tresses. Drawn to the reassuring strength of his embrace, she pressed her flushed cheek against the cool metal of his breastplate. His touch, his scent, and the gentle lilt of his voice all felt so familiar, so achingly right. At that moment, she cared not if the servants witnessed their intimate exchange, for her heart demanded his closeness.
Alaina wound her arms around his waist with newfound boldness, seeking to draw him closer. Her chilled fingers ventured behind him, slipping beneath the protective layers of his armour and tunic to caress his lower back's warm, damp skin. Gareth tensed, but she remained undeterred, relishing the heat radiating from his body.
"Alaina..." he whispered, his voice laden with caution. Yet she heeded not the consequences, for his embrace was a sanctuary where her heart found solace. It felt like home. As Gareth attempted to loosen his hold, Alaina tightened her grip, unwilling to release him.
"Just a while longer," she murmured. His breath grew shallow, but he resisted her grasp, his hands cradling her face with tender affection.
"I may lose my restraint," he warned, his eyes darkening with desire. But her plea was insistent, her fingers digging into the sensitive hollows of his back to anchor him to her. A low sigh escaped his lips as he struggled with his resolve.
"We are not yet wed, Alaina. It would be unseemly for us to be seen this way."
"How can it be wrong when it feels so right?" Her voice trembled with emotion.
"I do not wish to dishonour you," he replied, his devotion unwavering.
"Just kiss me, Gareth," she implored.
Her words shattered the last vestiges of his restraint. He drew her face to his, capturing her lips in a searing kiss that spoke of a hunger long denied. His mouth, slightly salted by sweat, was soft and inviting. As she parted her lips, his tongue explored the warm depths within, igniting a fire that threatened to consume them both.
Gareth's calloused hand caressed the nape of her neck, drawing her closer while his fingers tangled in her fiery locks. His other hand tightened around her waist, pulling her body flush against his. A low moan escaped Alaina's lips as she felt the undeniable evidence of his desire pressing against her. Had he not held her so securely, her knees might have given way beneath her.
Their hearts pounded in unison as their tongues danced in a passionate embrace, the flames of their longing burning brighter with each electrifying touch.
"Damn it, Alaina. I cannot resist any longer," Gareth moaned against her lips. He hoisted her up in a swift, fluid motion, her legs encircling his hips as if they were always meant to be there. Entranced by the depths of his eyes, she could only stare at him, her heart aflame with desire.
Gareth carried her effortlessly up the stairs to his chambers, showering her with tender kisses upon her brow and cheeks. Servants paused to gawk at the unexpected sight, but his icy glare sent them scurrying for cover. With a deft kick of his leg, he opened the door, crossed the threshold, and gently placed her on the bed. Closing the door behind him, he took several cautious steps back, his heart a battleground of conflicting emotions.
Alaina gazed up at him with a hunger that mirrored his own; her eyes glazed with passion. As he beheld the beautiful woman lying in his bed, the woman who had haunted his dreams and driven him to become the leader he was today, Gareth felt a sudden wave of realisation. His desire had commandeered his actions, and now they stood at the precipice of a fateful decision.
"Alaina, I apologise for bringing you here like this. We are not yet married," he said, his voice strained with the weight of his inner turmoil. Running a hand through his hair, he struggled to reconcile his desire with his honour. His expression betrayed both his anguish and embarrassment.
"But we will be," she replied defiantly, her eyes alight with determination. Any semblance of restraint she once possessed had vanished, leaving her body and soul awash with yearning. She ached for him to claim her, to satisfy the thirst that somehow awakened within her.
"Tell me to stop. Please," he implored as he approached her, slowly removing his armour. His face was a portrait of torment, but he allowed the metal plates to fall carelessly to the ground, baring himself to her in more ways than one.
"Tell me to stop, Alaina, and I will stop." His voice sounded strained and pleading.
Having no idea where this emboldened side of her came from, she rose from the bed. Seeing her rise, Gareth stopped, thinking she might have changed her mind and wanted to leave. But she stood before him and started to untie the string of her bodice. Her eyes locked with his, both hungry and wanton. She pulled her dress down to her ankles; her translucent undergarments were all that clothed her. Gareth groaned a deep, guttural, almost animal-like moan when he saw her hardened nipples through the thin material. The sound made her lust even more for him, and she felt her desire build. He closed the space between them and took her into his arms, crashing his mouth against hers. It felt like all his pent-up emotions could finally be released, and he could no longer resist and control himself. Their hungry mouths searched each other while his hands gripped her buttocks and kneaded the sensitive flesh. She felt his hardness against her as he ground himself against her body. His mouth travelled down her jawline and settled on the sensitive spot on her neck; all she could do was run her fingers through his blonde hair as she whimpered. Picking her up again, he placed her on the bed and deftly removed his tunic and trousers. She peered at his perfectly sculpted chest and torso, the muscles rippling under his skin. His manhood sprung out, relieved to be released from its confinement. He knelt in front of her at the edge of the bed, gently removing her undergarments as he rained kisses down her thighs. She moaned loudly when she felt his tongue slide against her intimate spot, his saliva mixing with her wetness. She could only grip the sheets around her while he caressed her sensitive nib with his tongue. She felt a jolt rush through her body when he inserted a finger into her, expanding her tightness and preparing her to receive him. Desire surged through her and kept increasing with each stroke of his finger. Gareth got up and placed his large body between her legs, and she felt his weight bore down upon her small frame. The tip of his throbbing erection perched at her entrance. She felt her body pulse in anticipation.
"Tell me to stop…" he breathed again, waiting for her approval. Alaina took him in her hands and stroked its length, enjoying its warmth and firmness; his moans filled the air and encouraged her further. She moved it to her wet entrance again and stared at him with hungry eyes; seeing her reaction made him push himself inside her. Slowly she felt him expand the tightness of her core. Her eyes panicked momentarily at the unexpected pain she felt.
"I will go slow", he murmured. Gently, he pushed in deeper, using his thumb to rub her sensitive nub to soften and relax her. Alaina gripped the sheets, and waves of pain and delicious delight washed over her. Gareth grasped her breast with his other hand, massaging its softness and rolling his fingers over its taut peak. When he was finally enveloped by her fully, he leaned forward and kissed her again. She felt him throb within her whenever she tightened. His breaths came in ragged gasps as he moved within her, each slow, deliberate thrust building a symphony of sensations that threatened to overwhelm them both. With every stroke, her desire crescendoed until it reached a fever pitch. As her body tightened around him, she arched her back and released a cry of ecstasy, surrendering to the powerful waves of pleasure that surged through her. The ripples of her climax shuddered through her very core like a storm unleashed upon a once tranquil sea.
Gareth's own passion ignited with renewed fervour when he witnessed her abandon. He quickened his pace, his thrusts growing more forceful and urgent as if he sought to merge their souls. Within moments, she felt his body tense, and a deep, primal groan escaped his lips. His release's hot, pulsing flood filled her, binding them together in the most intimate of embraces.
Exhausted yet elated, he collapsed onto her trembling form, their bodies slick with the evidence of their passion. Even in his spent state, he showered her shoulder and neck with fervent kisses, each touch confirming their newfound connection. She reached for his face, drew it close to hers, and pressed her lips softly to his. A smile played at the corners of his mouth as she tenderly brushed the hair from his brow.
Entwined in each other's arms, they lingered in the afterglow of their shared ecstasy, savouring the warmth and love that enveloped them like a silken cocoon. Time seemed to stand still as they basked in the radiant light of their passion, forever changed by the love that had blossomed between them.
"Well…" she sighed, "now you have no choice but to marry me." A slow smile spread across her face.
"As if I would have it any other way," Gareth growled affectionately and took her face into his hands to kiss her again.
"Oh!" Alaina gasped. "I never thanked you for the flowers. They are beautiful."
Gareth's face blushed, smiling widely at her.
"I will cover the whole castle with flowers if you wish."
Alaina's face turned red with joy.
"I hear you have been making arrangements for the wedding," he said as he twirled her auburn locks around his finger. He brought it up to his nose and inhaled deeply. Alaina allowed her hand to roam his firm chest, her fingers gently grazing his soft, golden chest hair. She felt him stiffen under her touch.
"I did not realise that so many of our tableware and cutlery were sold away," she said sadly. "I would need to place a few orders to replace some items for the wedding." She peered at him from under her lashes, not knowing what type of response to expect from him. What if he became angry that she was unnecessarily placing orders and spending money the duchy did not have?
"Do as you wish", he smiled. His hand moved over her breast and cupped it. She felt the sensitive tip harden under his touch. Trying to keep a level head, she gripped his hand.
"I am unsure about the status of our treasury. I would not want to spend haphazardly, but all eyes will be on this wedding."
Gareth took her hand that stopped him and brought it to his lips, sucking on her soft knuckles. Her breath caught in her throat at his affection.
"The treasury should be well-stocked, enough for the wedding. I was talking to a handful of merchants yesterday who promised to re-establish their trade routes through Dunkeld. You need not worry yourself about the state of the finances."
"This wedding will have the attention of the entire kingdom," Alaina replied seriously, propping herself up on her elbows. "My father's reputation is at stake."
"I might not be the prince, but I, too, have a sizable wealth if that is what you are concerned about," he said with a dejected look. Seeing that he was upset, Alaina climbed on top of him, straddling her legs on either side. A glimpse of shock at her brazen behaviour swept across his face.
"Yes, you are not the prince." She said matter-of-factly. He looked at her curiously, wanting to know what she was getting at.
"That is why I am here. You…" she bit her lip, thinking of what to say. "You make me feel safe. The prince never made me feel safe." She saw his eyes darken at her revelation.
"What has he done to you? Has he hurt you?" he growled. Alaina contemplated whether to tell him but felt it might not be wise.
"He no longer matters anymore. I will soon be your wife."
Gareth's face softened as she spoke. The afternoon sun bathed the room in a warm, golden glow, setting Alaina's auburn hair ablaze with fiery hues. Cradling her face in his hands, he drew her down for a tender kiss.
"I will take care of everything, Alaina. Trust me."
His hand found its way to her nape, pulling her closer, their tongues dancing together in a passionate embrace. As Alaina surrendered to the sensations coursing through her, the tension that had once bound her tightly began to unravel, leaving her to melt into his strong arms. Words became unnecessary; their connection transcended the spoken language.
She felt his arousal press against her bare skin, eliciting a mischievous grin that danced upon her lips. He filled her with a sudden, fluid movement, and she willingly submitted to the rapturous waves of pleasure that threatened to consume her once more.