I walked closely behind Alexander, wondering why a king would come to a place like this, but more importantly, why he would come without any protection, not even a single bodyguard, or his Beta. At first, I was concerned, but when I thought about who he was, I immediately changed my perspective.
Bringing followers would only attract attention, something Alexander adamantly avoided in a place like this.
It wasn't easy to keep up with him in a place this busy. Alexander's height came with long legs that produced large gaps with each movement. My long gown wasn't helping either.
Thankfully, he stopped when he got to a building with a structure no different from the others, but the exterior was decorated in a quite catchy way.
Without hesitation, he pushed open the door and stepped inside. I followed, grateful for the temporary respite from the sun.
The interior was dimly lit, contradicting with the lively market outside. The air was cooler, carrying a faint, musty scent. Mannequins adorned with gorgeous garments were arranged elegantly in one corner, while shelves lined with fabrics of every imaginable color adorned the walls.
Alexander's presence filled the room as he surveyed the surroundings while I stood still, watching the magnificence of the place.
"Your highness," a voice came from behind the curtains, a note of surprise clear in its tone. I instinctively turned towards it.
A beautiful woman emerged from the shadows. Long flowing brown hair cascaded down her back, and her captivating brown eyes gleamed with intelligence. She wore an enchanting red dress that accentuated her curves, her elegance seeming almost otherworldly.
It was like staring at a fallen angel that had no business in a place like this. Her elegance was top notch. I almost drooled at the sight of a lady like me.
"It's a miracle to have you here," her voice sounded like music to the ears.
For the first time in my life, I felt intimidated by a woman's beauty.
Alexander smiled charmingly. "Miracles are rare, Cathwulf," there was a playfulness in his tone that I'd never heard before. "You look as beautiful as ever."
She blushed and walked up to Alexander. My jaw almost dropped when she hugged him. Lymah snarled at the sight of her so close to him, and I controlled my rage by focusing on the pain I inflicted on myself, digging my nails into my palm.
Alexander returned the hug warmly, his hands resting lightly on her back. When they finally pulled apart, he introduced us. "Meet Penelope."
She tilted her head, her eyes accessing every corner of my body. It was impossible to not notice the slight discomfort in her eyes. "You got yourself a new whore?"
A whore?
I'd been addressed as many things. A bastard. The cursed Neville. A murderer's offspring. Never in my life did I ever imagine I'd be called a whore. For heaven's sake, I'm yet to lose my chastity.
I stiffened at her words, trying to control a rage I had never felt before. All Lymah urged me to do was charge at her and claw at her perfect face, but I forced myself to remain still.
Alexander's smile faded immediately, his eyes hardening. "Watch your tongue, Cathwulf, if you don't want it to be cut off," he said, his tone icy. "Penelope is no whore. She is my mate."