Chapter 94: Into Her Memories
Annalise took a deep breath to collect her thoughts before she started speaking again, "Every royal agreement needs sacrifice from at least one of the parties involved, and since our empire was the one to ask for your help, we needed to make that sacrifice."
"A marriage alliance is always considered the best guarantee for any agreement and considering I was the only royal princess who wasn’t already married, I was chosen as the candidate for your bride."
There was a long silence following her explanation before Damien finally spoke, "Is that all?" His question made her finally turn her face to look at him.
"Do you think it’s not enough of a reason? Let me remind you again, My Lord - I’m the only daughter of the Grand Duke of the Seelie Empire and one of the princesses of the land. My family is devoted to putting the empire first and we did exactly that when it was needed. Besides, the royal edict didn’t give me or my family much of an option."
Damien immediately wrapped his arm around her as he pulled her back into his arms and whispered next to her ear, "Don’t be mad, Princess. I’m trying to understand things better so that I can finally make my decision. I hope my questions won’t offend you."
Annalise found herself relaxing, the anger that was rising inside her immediately got melted away at his warmth and affection. She could feel through the bond just how sincere he was.
"I..." Damien tried to speak but then stopped. However, she remained silent and patiently waited for him to continue which he eventually did after a few moments. "... Did your father or the King ever mention something about... about a plan... or something?"
Annalise stared at her husband in confusion, not understanding exactly what he was trying to imply by the word ’plan’. "They never did and I have no idea why you think that... mmph...!" The rest of her words were silenced by the sudden kiss that took her by complete surprise.
His tongue invaded her mouth as he kissed her deeply, his arm tightening its hold around her waist as he pulled her closer against his body while his other hand made its way to her hair as his fingers tugged on them lightly.
The kiss was fast, deep, and imploring. She almost felt like he was trying to seek something from her with that kiss... and she was indeed right about it.
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