His Majesty Adores Me

Chapter 19: The Promise

Chapter 19

I asked my father if I could go home earlier and he agreed. He was still busy talking to his colleagues and I felt a little tired talking to the other ladies. Also, even if I could enjoy and dance at the party I simply am not in the mood for it. I am afraid I will make mistakes since I’m losing focus. I need to rest and think about things. I am glad Father said I could go home.

“Shall we go now, my lady?” The chauffeur asked and I nodded my head.

This night did not turn the way I expected it to be but it answered all the questions in my mind.

I don’t really know what to feel right now. I want to be happy since Asher is safe and unharmed but I feel a little lost in the moment. If he’s the Emperor now does that mean he will no longer keep his promises? He’s a completely different person right now. That Asher that I met back in the Cabin, will I ever see him again? Or will he remain in my memories?

We arrived home earlier than expected; Maia and the others assisted me so I could have a good bath. I tasted the wine at the party and it tasted so good. I asked Maia to grab me some wine to help me fall asleep. They are quite worried since I am not talking about the party. They must have expected that it will be a great party. I also thought of it that way.

After changing into my nightgown, I poured myself a glass of wine and sat on the sofa. I needed to relax my mind so I grabbed a book and started reading it. It’s about a lone wolf finding his way to his home. He lost his way and he was fighting for his life in the wild but deep inside he wanted to go home. It’s a little childish book but it’s good to read to lighten my mood.

I heard a knock on the window and it frightened me. “Who’s there?” I said and I stood up and walked slowly to the door. If it’s a thief then I can just get out and scream for help.

“It’s me, Celeste.” A faint voice coming from the outside of the window said. It calmed me down. He’s here?

I slowly walked towards the window and opened it. The person standing outside my window is no other than Asher Yves Oberon, the Emperor himself. He’s wearing a dark cloak probably to conceal his presence. He must have sneaked here.

“W-What are you doing here, your highness?” My hands are trembling not because I am scared but because my heart is beating so fast. Speaking at this distance makes me nervous. He was looking at me intently and I couldn't help but blush. He’s still looking at me like that.

“I came here for you.” He said. “Am I not allowed?”

“W-Why?” I breathe. “You could’ve entered using the door.” I said and he grinned.

“I want to see you as fast as I can. I don’t want to cause trouble to Amaranth residents as well.” He said and I sighed.

“Come in.” I said and opened the window widely and he hopped in. It must be cold outside. I wonder how long he has been outside.

“Should I get you something-“ I was cut from my words as his warm immense arms hugged me.

He pulled me into his arms and held on to me tightly, “I have waited for so long to hold you again like this.” He said.

I didn’t know what had gotten into me but the next thing I know is I am crying my eyes out. I hugged him back. His huge body envelope mw with warmth and it made me feel safe and happy. I don’t know why my feelings are rushing over me right now. The only thing I could do is cry on his shoulders.

“Celeste, please don’t cry.” He said and caressed my back. Because of the height difference he held me close and lifted me as we sat on the bed. He was comforting me and thanks heavens I stopped crying.

“I’m sorry.” I whimpered.

“Don’t be. It’s me who needs to apologize for putting you in this position. I apologize.” He said and held my hand to kiss it.

“So now, you are the Emperor. I haven’t congratulated you yet.” I said and I smiled bitterly. Does he know the difference between our statuses now? “I wish for your happiness. I am glad that you went here to comfort me but I truly understand. I know the tables have turned and I accept the situation.” I told him and looked down. Is this how I get my first heartbreak? I don’t know.

He held my chin up and smirked, “My Celeste, you must have misunderstood things. I came here for you.” He said.

“What do you mean by your words, Asher I mean your highness?” I asked.

“I came here to fulfil my promises to you.” He said and stood up to get something under his robe. He kneeled in front of me and I gasped. “Be my wife. Marry me, Celeste. Be mine for a lifetime.” He said and opened the box of the ring he was holding.

What? Is this for real? “Asher...” I called his name as I stared at his deep blue eyes. I was afraid that this moment would never come and I almost gave up my hopes of us getting together. I have never felt like this, we might have met each other by accident but what we have right now is real. I want to be with him too.

I smiled as tears fell on my cheeks, “Yes. I will be your wife.” I said his face lightened up. He put the ring on my finger and hugged me tightly.

“I am so happy Celeste, thank you.” He said and we fell on my bed.

He hugged me tightly, “I honestly thought that you had forgotten about me.” I whispered.

He turned over and looked straight into my eyes as he lay on top of me, “That’s not true at all. You don’t know how hard it is to stop myself from seeing you and so I admired you from afar. I don’t want to confuse you and make things complicated. I sent you gifts to keep your admirers jealous so they can’t compete with me. Every day is so frustrating. I can’t stop thinking of you.” He sighed.

I giggled as he looked so worried. I am glad he thinks of me every day. “I’m glad to see you well.” I said.

He gave me a quick kiss and I blushed, “A-Asher...”

“You can’t take back what you said. Tomorrow I will send the marriage proposal to this residence. I will come here as soon as you receive it.” He said and I nodded. He still hasn’t changed when he’s around me at all. I thought that he changes since he has that look that I have not seen before.

“Yes.” I replied. “Are you... going to sleep here?” I blushed. I don’t want to cause rumors. If Maia barges in here in the morning and she finds out about this it’s rather embarrassing.

He blushed and looked away. “That’s a tempting offer but I’m afraid I cannot. I don’t know if I can hold back.” He muttered.

“Hold back?” I questioned.

“For now, how about I wait for you to fall asleep and I’ll go.” He said.

“What? Is that really fine with you? You must be tired as well.” I said and he shook his head.

“No, not at all. So please have a nice sleep and I will just be here beside you.” He said and I nodded.

I moved a little to the side and closed my eyes. I can feel him playing with my hair as I slowly fall into deep slumber.