Chapter 485: Your Deceit
Days passed quickly, and at last, the King and Queen arrived in Valcrez. Raul formally introduced Niran to everyone as his fiancee, and with their approval, she was officially recognized as his future wife.
"I can’t wait to mark you during the Coupling Rite," Raul murmured against her skin, his lips brushing her neck. They had grown increasingly intimate, but Raul restrained himself from taking her fully, honoring her wish to wait until their union was sanctified through the ritual.
"Your tea is getting cold," Niran teased with a giggle as she tried to escape his lap. Raul, however, captured her lips in a firm kiss, only to be interrupted by a knock at the door.
Raul cursed softly, his voice sharp. "What is it?"
Butler Moller’s voice came through the door. "Your Highness, the King and Queen have arrived and are waiting for you in the living area."
"What?!" Raul and Niran exclaimed in unison. They quickly composed themselves, adjusting their appearance before heading to greet the royal visitors.
"Your Majesties," Raul and Niran bowed respectfully as King Nikolai and Queen Mineah entered the room.
"This is unexpected," Raul remarked, his brows raised in surprise.
"Mother informed us that your Coupling Rite will be held in two days," Nikolai said with a warm smile. "Mineah and I thought a surprise visit would be appropriate."
"Seems like dropping in unannounced worked perfectly," Nikolai added with a smirk. "At least now I have your full attention, Raul."
Mineah interjected smoothly, breaking the slight tension. "Why don’t you and Nikolai catch up while Lady Niran and I have a private conversation? I’m sure she has questions about the Coupling Rite."