As I stood beside the man who was now my husband, doubts crept in, threatening to overwhelm me. What secrets lay hidden behind his captivating smile? What mysteries had he concealed from me? The wedding ceremony, with its grandeur and splendor, faded into the background as my mind wandered.
"What's wrong?" he whispered, his warm breath tickling my ear and sending shivers down my spine. How could a stranger evoke such emotions? We had just met, yet his presence felt oddly familiar.
The rituals passed, and we exchanged our vows. As we sealed our union with a kiss, I couldn't help but wonder: What kind of man had I married? Would he love me, cherish me, or use me as a pawn in his game of power?
As we prepared to leave, I felt a pang of sorrow, knowing I'd miss my parents and Yelena, my loyal maid and confidante. We had shared countless moments, laughter, and tears. Her absence would leave a gaping hole in my life.
"Be strong, Ariel," Yelena had whispered during our farewell. "You were born for greatness." Her words echoed in my mind, but uncertainty lingered.
During our journey to Henry's kingdom, the scenery outside our carriage window changed, but my thoughts remained stuck. How would I fit into this new world? Would the courtiers and nobles accept me, or would they see me as an outsider?
Henry's gentle inquiry, "Are you uncomfortable, Princess?" caught me off guard. I stuttered, concealing my inner turmoil.
"I'm fine," I lied, avoiding eye contact.
Henry's piercing gaze lingered on me, as if sensing the turmoil brewing inside. But he said nothing, instead focusing on the road ahead.
As the sun began to set, casting a golden glow over the landscape, I couldn't help but steal glances at Henry. His profile, illuminated by the fading light, revealed a strong jawline and sharp features.
Who was this man, really? What secrets lay hidden behind those captivating eyes?
Upon arrival at Henry's kingdom, exhaustion overwhelmed me. The journey had taken its toll, and my body ached from the constant jostling.
"My lord," I whispered, seeking solace.
Henry turned, his expression softening. "Call me Henry," he replied, sweeping me into his arms with ease.
I felt a flutter in my chest, surprised by the gentleness of his touch. As he carried me through the golden-hued hallway, I couldn't help but notice the opulent decorations.
In our chambers, Henry laid me down on the plush bed, his hands cradling my head. For a moment, I felt safe, protected.
But as he left, anxiety gripped me. The wedding night loomed "wedding consummation" the thought swarm in filling me with trepidation. Was I prepared? What if I resisted? Would he grow angry?
My mind raced, thoughts tangling together like a knot. Sleep eluded me, and I lay awake, staring at the ceiling.
Henry returned, his presence announced by the soft creaking of the door. He approached the bed, his footsteps quiet.
"Ariel," he whispered, his voice low and soothing.
I turned, meeting his gaze. For a moment, we just looked at each other.
"You're tired," he said, his eyes crinkling at the corners. "Sleep. We'll talk in the morning."
Relief washed over me, followed by gratitude. Perhaps this man wasn't as monstrous as I'd imagined.
As Henry settled beside me, his warmth and presence enveloped me. For the first time that day, I felt a sense of peace.
My eyelids grew heavy, and I drifted into a restless sleep, haunted by visions of an uncertain future.