Chapter 24: THE NERVES THAT BETRAY (1)
The castle was large and imposing, even more so seeing as the sun had already set. The corridors twisted and turned, making it seem like a labyrinth. Velmoria pushed the large wooden doors that led to the inside of the castle with her bare hands, leading Arella in. Braziers lined the walls, their fire casting shadows over the dark stone. The demoness's silky black dress made some swishing sound as they walked up a set of stairs.
They walked in relative silence, which allowed Arella's mind to race.
The thrill of the dance, the warmth of the demon King's touch, and the undeniable chemistry that ran between them had left her breathless and wanting more. Her cheeks still burned from the kiss he had set on her cheek. She knew it was a promise, and at the thought, she fiddled with the edge of her gown, trying to keep her composure.
Velmoria stopped at a landing, forcing Arella to look up at her since she was a few steps lower. The light of the moon filtered from a large window that stood at the wall of the landing, casting an illuminating glow over Velmoria. Her tail swished as she turned her head to look at Arella, a mischievous smile on her face. She turned slightly, angling her whole body at Arella. "Your Majesty, you seem distracted. Might I offer you some advice?"
Arella blinked twice. "Advice? About what?"
Velmoria's sharp and elegant features softened. "The wedding night, of course. You seem a tad... nervous."
Arella subconsciously straightened her back, but the slight flutter of her wings betrayed her. "I am not nervous."
Velmoria arched a perfectly plucked brow. "Oh? Then why do you look ready to take flight?" She looked pointedly at her half-open wings.
Arella opened her mouth to retort but paused.