Waking up in my new surroundings, I stretched, feeling an inexplicable excitement coursing through my veins. The plush bed and lavish chamber were unfamiliar, yet I sensed a strange sense of belonging. "Why am I excited?" I wondered, trying to shake off the feeling.
I turned to Henry's side of the bed, only to find him gone. I assumed he'd risen early for meetings or other royal duties. A faint memory of his gentle words from the previous night resurfaced: "You're tired, sleep. We'll talk in the morning." A spark of annoyance flared within me. Why hadn't he touched me? Didn't he find me beautiful enough?
My stomach growled, distracting me from these thoughts. I realized I hadn't eaten since arriving at the castle. Unfamiliar with the castle's layout and staff, I had no idea who my maid was or who would attend to me.
After taking a bath, I found two maids waiting in my chambers. One held a stunning blue dress, while the other carried a hairdresser's tools. They helped me prepare, and I admired the dress's beauty. The silk fabric hugged my curves, and the delicate embroidery sparkled in the morning light.
"The prince awaits you in the dining room, Your Highness," one maid said, curtsying.
The mention of food sent my thoughts racing: "Fooooood!" I quickly arranged my dress and headed to the dining room, my stomach leading the way.
On my way, I recalled the maid's words: "The prince is waiting for you." My heart fluttered, and a blush spread across my face. Why was I blushing? I hadn't blushed since childhood.
Upon entering the dining room, I found Henry and a stranger, who seemed just as handsome but with a distinct aura. His dark hair and eyes, and muscular build, radiated a warrior's confidence.
"This is my brother Solomon," Henry introduced, his eyes crinkling at the corners.
Solomon's deep voice surprised me, and I couldn't look away. "Hi," he said, his gaze locking onto mine.
"I think your wife is interested in me too, brother," Solomon teased, glancing at Henry.
Mortified, I stuttered, "Oh no, no, it's not like that." The brothers erupted into laughter, and I hid my face.
Henry's gentle touch on my shoulder reassured me. "Don't mind Solomon; he's just joking."
As we dined, the conversation flowed easily. Solomon regaled us with tales of his military campaigns, while Henry shared stories of his governance. I listened intently, fascinated by their camaraderie.
After the meal, Henry suggested a walk in the castle gardens. The sunlight and fresh air revitalized me, and I strolled beside him, feeling more at ease.
As we walked, Henry pointed out various landmarks and shared the castle's history. His passion for his kingdom was evident, and I found myself captivated by his dedication.
Upon returning to the castle, I spotted a group of ladies-in-waiting gathered in the hallway. They curtsied as I passed, their eyes filled with curiosity.
"Who are they?" I whispered to Henry.
"My sister's ladies-in-waiting," he replied. "They'll be attending to you as well."
I nodded, feeling a sense of belonging. Perhaps this new life wouldn't be so daunting after all.
As the day unfolded, I found myself growing more comfortable in my new role. The castle's opulence and grandeur began to feel like home.
But amidst the familiarity, I couldn't shake off the feeling that there was more to Henry than met the eye. His gentle touch and reassuring smile hinted at a deeper complexity.
And Solomon's teasing words lingered in my mind: "I think your wife is interested in me too, brother." Was it truly just a joke, or did Solomon sense something I couldn't quite acknowledge?
As night fell, Henry escorted me to our chambers. The fire crackled, casting a warm glow across the room.
"Are you comfortable here?" Henry asked, his eyes searching mine.
I nodded, feeling a sense of gratitude. "Yes, thank you."
Henry's smile softened. "I'm glad. You're beautiful when you smile."
My heart skipped a beat. No one had ever said something so sweet to me.
As I drifted off to sleep, surrounded by the castle's silence, I realized that this new life might hold more surprises than I anticipated.