CHAPTER THIRTY-ONE: VENUS
It's been a whole week since I accidentally overheard King Leon and Michael having a conversation about the true reason behind our marriage.
The mere thought of it still makes me feel sick to my stomach. I can't comprehend how they could use someone so heartlessly and then treat them as if they were disposable, as if I'm just an incubator to them and not a human being. It's just disgusting.
Despite everything they've done to me in the past, I still tried to give the Aethelwulfs the benefit of the doubt because our marriage was the only hope for my people's survival. But now that I know their true intentions and what they plan to do, any hope for their redemption is lost. I can't forgive them or give them another chance. Xavier despises them deeply, and I can see why; his family truly embodies the definition of evil.
My thoughts were abruptly interrupted as Simon and Michael barged into my room without knocking. Trying to mask the intense rage and disgust I felt for him, I forced a smile and asked, "What brings you to my humble abode, dear husband?"
"I'm here to inform you that your punishment has been lifted," Michael said with a slight frown on his face, "You'll be receiving food and water starting tonight."
As Michael spoke, my anger intensified. It felt as though he believed he was granting me a favour by giving me food and water. I didn't deserve this punishment in the first place, and they needlessly prolonged it.
Fortunately, their attempt to starve me didn't work out as they hoped. After sneaking into the library that morning to search for information on the prophecy, I managed to gather some leftovers from the guards' dinner in the dining room. Their efforts were in vain, and the joke's on them.
"I'm absolutely certain that you didn't make the decision to release me," I remarked.
"That's right, it wasn't my call. If it were up to me, you'd still be locked up here, starving," he retorted with a smug grin.
"I send my regards to the king for his gracious decision," I said, expecting him to leave after passing his message, but he didn't move. Confused, I inquired, "Is there anything else you would like to say to me?"
"Yes, there is," Michael explained. "We will be heading to the Redwood pack tomorrow evening for their annual mating ceremony. They are important allies to us, so we are obligated to go." It dawned on me that this must be the reason why he released me in the first place. He continued, "The pack has invited the royal family to witness the marriage between their son and his chosen mate."
'What does that have to do with me?"I questioned, feeling a surge of joy inside as this seemed like the perfect opportunity to escape from here.
He responded rudely, "Are you deaf or something? I said they asked the royal family to come, including you, even though you are a witch. You're still part of the royal family, so you must attend."
Feeling defiant, I raised an eyebrow and asked, "And what if I don't want to go?"
"Venus, you have no choice. You're going, and that's final!" Michael's voice rose as he glared at me.
"Well, as I've mentioned before, I'm a witch, not a wolf. I doubt anyone will notice if I'm absent," I pointed out mischievously. Deep down, I do want to go, as it could be my chance to escape, but I can't resist getting a rise out of Michael.
Michael's frustration was evident as he clenched his fists, trying to contain his agitation. "Venus, this is not up for negotiation. The royal family's presence is absolutely essential, and you will attend the event."
"I won't be coerced into going somewhere against my will," I firmly stated.
"Venus, you're not an ordinary princess anymore; you're the next queen of Verna. Your absence could be seen as disrespectful and may lead to severe consequences for you,".
"Consequences, you say? Like locking me up in my room or depriving me of food? Like you've done before. "
Michael's tone turned more threatening as he replied, "If that's what I have to do to make you behave, I will do it." Behind him, Simon snickered, adding to my annoyance, I wanted to wipe that stupi smile off his face.
"Always resorting to threats, Michael. It's not really gentlemanly of you," I remarked sarcastically, refusing to back down.
"I'm not a gentle or patient man, Venus, so it's best you don't push me," he retorted.
"You could have fooled me," I said with a small smile, enjoying getting under his skin.
"Enough of this," he said sternly, his voice dripping with frustration. "Arguing with you will only piss me off, so I will take my leave now. The maids will come and help you get dressed tomorrow evening, and don't be late.
As he exited the room, my mind buzzed with various ideas on how to plan my escape. Tomorrow morning, I'll find myself at Oceanstar's castle, finally breaking free from this wretched life. The mere thought of confronting Xavier's family about their deceitful plan fills me with excitement and a profound sense of vindication. It's going to be truly satisfying.
As the night wore on, I carefully devised my escape plan. I knew it wouldn't be easy, but I was determined to seize this opportunity. My heart pounded in my chest, mixing fear and determination, as I prepared for what lay ahead.
The next day seemed to fly by quickly, and the maids arrived promptly at 7:00 PM, to help me prepare for the event. Despite feeling anxious, I acted compliantly, trying not to raise any suspicions. The gown they chose was stunning, with a tight-fitting silver top adorned with sparkling crystal decorations resembling distant stars. The elegant off-shoulder neckline and dreamy, layered skirt in shades of blue and lilac created a celestial-inspired fading effect akin to stardust.
After the maids finished styling my hair in a bun with beautiful accessories, I was led to the castle's entrance where King Leon, Michael, and Dana awaited my arrival.
"Hello King Leon, Dana, and Michael, hope you had a great day?" I greeted, curtsying to maintain the pretence, even though I despised being so close to them.
"What a surprise. You might have a bad personality, but at least you have your looks to make up for it," the king remarked, signaling the guards to open the doors.
"Thank you, King Leon," I said with a composed tone, determined to keep my emotions in check. Losing control won't help me at all, so it's best to act like it didn't affect me.
"It wasn't a compliment," he retorted as we walked out of the castle together, with Michael following closely behind.
'Asshole,' I thought to myself as we all got into the carriage
As we stepped out of the carriage, my heart pounded with nervous anticipation. The tight grip Michael had on my arm only intensified, making me feel like a prisoner rather than a welcomed guest. I couldn't shake the feeling that he wanted to control my every move, and it left me uneasy.