Lady In Red

9

"A halt for the night, sir. It is getting late."

I heard Sir Andrew and finally opened my eyes to see a shawl over me.

"Understood", His musky voice replied.

I looked down at my lap and I froze. My bosom was practically hanging out. Well, not hanging out. My laces had somehow come undone and my cleavage was out. Embarrassed, I pushed myself up but he didn't let me move; I stood still. He took off my shawl and tied my laces for me.

"Forgive me, I do not know how they-"

"I did."

That was all he said before he lifted me and sat me down on the seat before getting off and looking around then at me.

"Come," He said extending his hand, and he waited as I adjusted my dress and hair. I did not wish to take any more time and grabbed his hand stepping down the carriage steps but forgot the shawl behind. Not a second later the footman closed the door and the carriage rode away to be washed off all the dirt and the horses to be fed.

The freezing wind suddenly slapped me and I shiver to hug myself.

I searched for Lydia but perhaps she was taken to the lodge to set the room up for me.

The King and Sir Andrew talked for a minute before King Xerxes took my hand, I stare with wide eyes as he did that with absolutely so hesitation or a second expression, to me it was like bees humming in my heart.

I look around and the village was under a thick fog but the nightlife was bustling. A heavy coat sat over my shoulders given by him, as he continued walking. His hand grabbed mine again and I couldn't help but feel safe with him.

"We shall depart early. The mountains can be a challenge because of the carriage at night. It is best to halt here."

"I am aware. Write to Henry that we will be arriving tomorrow night and have the castle prepare for their Queen's arrival."

"Yes, most arrangements are made. Sir-"

We stopped at the garden which led to the dining area. King Xerxes let go of my hand and I pulled his coat closed to me and looked around while eves dropped on their conversations. Only stepping a few steps away to look at the flowers in the garden.

"We will have to arrange the ceremony the very next day. The Queen has to be -"

"Yes. I am aware. You do not need to tell me that Andrew."

I didn't look at him but, he seemed a bit angry. Every time his tone changed I felt frightened.

"Of course my King, however, I do show my concerns for the...ability to handle it. It would be wise to ask a Persia."

"Have her settle at court for the next week."

Sir Andrew nodded.

"The dinner is ready. I hope you have a good sleep." He said.

I walk to King Xerxes as he looked at me and gestured for me to take his hand. I shyly kept my hand over his and looked at Sir Andrew.

"Will you all not be joining us?"

"I-"

"It's alright we have some matters to discuss anyway. Come." The king said walking towards the dining table with me. Sir Andrew nodded with a small smile.

The dinner was heavenly. I had never tasted such a meal before. I enjoyed my food while they talked about things I had good knowledge about but had no interest in listening to. As I take the final sip of water and finished my meal I look out at the gardens.

Their conversations seemed serious enough that my presence seemed a bit too intruding.

"May I take a walk in the garden?" I asked.

"I shall call on your maid-"

"No, let them rest. I will be right here." I asked again which I told was something I shouldn't do since I had no idea how the King would react.

"Do not leave the garden." King Xerxes stated and I nodded walking out.

The air carried the scent of jasmine and mint from the bushes. It made me want to plant my own garden with vegetables and flowers. I used to love gardening until my mother started taking me back to court.

I wondered what she would be doing now. What Father is doing. I wondered how things work at the new court, and how the King's way of running his kingdom was. As a woman, I would not be involved in such matters.

I almost screamed as two hands wrapped around my waist, butterflies flew in my gut and my heart seem to have a field day beating so loud at the sudden touch every time. But I knew, at the back of my head. It was only he who could touch me.

"We have a long day ahead tomorrow. You have to sleep."

I nodded as he walked with me to my room. I thought it would be separate rooms until the doors opened revealing a large bed. Lydia had laid my nightgown on the chair at the vanity desk and I freeze.

In a bed, together, already?

I am not ready. I can't. I do not want to. Panic set in as King Xerxes locked the door and took off his clothes. He poured himself a drink and gulped down two sips.

No, no, no.

I am exhausted.

He looked at me and stared. For a while, "Well..? Do I have to command your to strip and get in bed?"

WHAT? strip? naked? already? But we aren't even back at the castle.

I was breathing heavily at this point. I wasn't ready. My heart dropped as he stood there looking out the window. Possibly waiting for me to get in bed and ...Oh goodness.

"I-I "

"What?" He asked. I flinched internally. All the things I found good about him had crashed down as he stares at me with a frustrated look.

"I am exhausted. F-Forgive me, My King." What was I doing? Refusing the King of his demands was a punishable offense. I could very well be forced into submission and no one would bat an eye.

My tears started forming as I see him walk towards me. I waited for some sort of harsh reaction but his hands cupped my face and pulled my face up to look at his.

His eyes are so dark... I thought.

"And what did you think I was going to do with you right now Ruby?"

I could not speak. I was afraid. So afraid.

"I-I am so sorry."

He closed his eyes letting go of my face. And gave a sigh of frustration.

"I am not asking you to open your legs so I can f*** you right now Ruby. I am asking you to strip, wear what your maid prepared, and go to sleep."