Chapter 285: Cause for Celebration (2)
Evanna and Arawn continued to the long table at the far end, where the king and Queen’s family faced the court. The pair greeted with a curtsy and a bow. Unlike her time with the elves, the clothing she wore again seemed plain and simple, covering her up with a tight corset to keep everything in check. Evanna had become accustomed to their clothing, so wearing something that kept her breathing and movements limited again was highly frustrating.
"I can’t wait to take this damn thing off," Evanna muttered under her breath as the king rose from his seat, raising his hands to quieten the hall.
Arawn smirked, keeping his voice quiet, and only so she could hear him, "Is this your way of seducing me? I must admit, it is working. I will help you out of your dress later."
Evanna’s eyes crinkled up at his response, relaxing her further even under the scrutiny of her family and the nobles around her. After everything she’d been through, something like this shouldn’t faze her. It mostly didn’t. Yet her anxiety and years of habits made her feel like a bird locked in a cage for all to admire and experiment with. It was highly unsettling.
"Will you help me with any further needs after that, though, Your Highness?" Evanna whispered back, then felt her cheeks heat after Axel cleared his throat from behind them.
Their conversation was quiet, and others shouldn’t be able to hear them, but those gathered in the hall suddenly quietened under the king’s command. Nobody besides their group heard, but those watching might see some of the men’s ears slightly red or their faces a little flushed. All except for Garrett, who seemed more displeased than anything. But when didn’t he look moody?
"We’ve gathered here not only to rejoice in the homecoming of my cherished daughter, Evanna, but also to honour the knights who accompanied her, safeguarded her, and ensured her safe return. Our dear friends from the Florian kingdom played a vital role in reuniting us, and as a symbol of our strengthened bond with the Flori, I’m delighted to declare the engagement of Princess Evanna and Crown Prince Arawn Thorn. Let us all raise our glasses in a toast to Evanna and Arawn and celebrate this joyous occasion tonight." The king raised his glass from the table, smiling broadly.
The nobles followed, clapping and cheering from around them. Evanna and Arawn shared a glance before going towards the two empty seats on the left side of the king, where Lady Loraven sat straight, looking radiant. Evanna greeted her before sitting, ignoring the feel of two pairs of eyes sending daggers in their direction; they already knew who it would be.
"Evanna! Evanna!"