Chapter 62:
Lucina
I sink into the luxurious bath.
The warm, heated water envelops me like a comforting embrace. The large pool is a haven of relaxation, its steam rising gently into the air.
I close my eyes and let out a sigh of relief as Stacy's skilled hands work their magic. Massaging my temples. Running through my hair.
Each touch soothes me, easing the tension from the evening's events. Despite only spending a few hours at the banquet, it has drained me more than I anticipated.
I let myself drift into the calming rhythm of Stacy's ministrations. Allowing the warmth of the bath to melt away the stress and fatigue.
*
I step quietly into my room, hoping to find solace in sleep after the draining evening.
My hopes are quickly dashed.
A flash of light pierces the calm of my room.
Sleep? Who needs it now?
There, on the sofa in the corner of my bedroom, lies Nikolai.
Asleep in a manner that both surprises and perplexes me.
His purple hair splays out around him, creating a halo of color against the sofa. Dressed in black slacks and a white linen shirt—unbuttoned slightly to reveal a glimpse of his chest—he looks unexpectedly peaceful.
I tread carefully, mindful not to disturb him, as I approach. His arm drapes over the armrest, adding to his relaxed posture.
With a mix of curiosity and frustration, I tiptoe closer. Almost like a hunter approaching its prey.
I move silently until I'm right in front of him.
Taking in his tranquil features.
He looks so peaceful that I can't resist.
Without warning—I leap into his lap.
He gasps, waking up instantly. I lose my balance. He reflexively steadies me, his hand resting firmly on my waist.
"Princess."
Surprise laces his voice.
I make myself comfortable, settling cross-legged on his lap. Nikolai adjusts, making space on the chair clearly meant for one person.
"What a way to wake someone up."
Amusement colors his voice.
"Not that I'm complaining, of course."
He gently twirls a damp curl of my hair between his fingers.
Moments later, a warm breeze surrounds me. My hair dries instantly.
One of the perks of having a mage close by.
"You looked so peaceful. I couldn't stand it."
I retort.
He chuckles softly at my words.
***
Nikolai
What are my thoughts?
I have none.
I swear by the Goddess herself—the Princess must be doing this on purpose.
What on earth is this scandalous robe she's wearing? It feels like nothing more than a deliberate tease.
"Eyes up here."
She snaps, pulling me out of my ogling.
I reluctantly lift my gaze to meet her amused gray eyes. The way she's seated gives her a distinct vantage point over me. Making it all too easy for her to observe my reaction.
"I apologize."
I'm not truly remorseful at all.
She rolls her eyes at my half-hearted apology.
"I hear from Haroun that you spent time dancing with someone."
I try to sound casual.
"Hmmm… I did." Her eyes twinkle with amusement. "Why? Jealous?"
I squeeze her gently and bury my face in her neck.
"I am."
My voice is barely a whisper.
Her body shakes with laughter. I glare at her in mock frustration. The more I frown, the harder she laughs.
I find myself reluctantly smiling at her unbridled joy.
"Oh nooo. I'm so scared."
Mock drama drips from her tone. Clearly not scared in the slightest.
"You see, Nikolai, you don't have to be."
Her voice softens as she places her hands on my neck, pulling me to face her.
"Not when I've got you like this."
Her touch is light. But there's a confident possessiveness in her gesture that sends a shiver down my spine.
I feel the warmth of her fingers against my skin. Her closeness stirs something deep within me. Her gray eyes—filled with mischief and something deeper,hold me captive. I never want to escape.
I can't look away.
The look in her eyes shifts.
Darkens with a hunger that makes my pulse race.
I hold my breath as she pulls me closer by the neck.
Her lips crash against mine. The kiss is fierce and demanding. Full of heat—as if we're both starving for each other.
Her hands slide down from my neck. Fingers move with practiced ease to unbutton my shirt. Each button undone sends a spark of electricity through me.
The air between us feels almost charged.
I can't move fast enough to help her.
Both of us lost in the moment. Driven by impatient, burning need.
My hands tremble as I fumble with the last button. Desperate to close the gap between us.
Then—
A sharp cough.
It cuts through the tension like a blade.
Freezing us both in place.
The sound is like a bucket of cold water. A surge of frustration so intense I almost scream.
I reluctantly pull back.
My breath is ragged.
I glance over Lucina's shoulder.
There, standing in the doorway, is Haroun. Looking awkward and uncomfortable. His eyes averted as if he's trying to pretend he didn't just walk in on something.
But it's Valendor who catches my attention.
The damned elf leans casually against the doorframe.
A smirk plastered across his face.
His eyes gleam with amusement. As if he finds the entire situation endlessly entertaining.
Pure murderous intent radiates through me as I glare at the intruders.
Before I can act on it—
The princess collapses onto my chest.
Her body shakes with silent laughter.
The warmth of her touch and the sound of her muffled giggles work like a balm. Gradually dissipating my anger.
Leaving me with nothing but resignation.
"Perfect timing."
I mutter through gritted teeth. Irritation laces my voice.
My frustration only seems to amuse her more. Her laughter grows louder, filling the room with its infectious sound.
She laughs so hard that she buries her face against me.
Despite myself, I feel the corners of my mouth twitch upward.
It's impossible to stay mad when she's like this. So carefree. Unbothered by the chaos around us.
I wrap my arms around her, holding her close as her laughter continues.