Chapter 5: Direct Punishment
"Seriously?" Tarah muttered under her breath, her eyes widening as she took in the arrangements made for her inside the prince’s tent.
She stared at the makeshift bed close to the Prince’s bed, which was only separated by a curtain for some reason.
’Just what is he thinking, having me stay inside his tent?’ she mused with a deep frown forming on her face. She couldn’t believe that Prince Ezekiel would use this kind of arrangement for her. She didn’t know what to think of it. What was his purpose for this?
Her face then paled as she thought of the possibility of the prince taking her as his woman.
That couldn’t be... right? The rumors spoke of his aloofness around women, portraying him as a figure dedicated to his duties and responsibilities who didn’t have time to invest in personal relationships. He was a valiant man known for his just and noble demeanor.
Even in Tarah’s visions and dreams, the prince had always been depicted as a leader destined to unite kingdoms and bring about peace.
"I’ll assist you with everything you’ll need, milady," a female servant, who introduced herself as Cora said. She looked like someone who was of the same age as Tarah, with her just turning twenty-one this year. "The bath is ready for you to clean up. There are also some clothes available that Prince Ezekiel asked for you."
"We’re at war. These arrangements are not necessary, and I can sleep with the rest," Tarah stated, her mind still busy deciphering the Prince’s intentions for making her stay in his own tent like this. "I came with them, so I must stay with them. Why was I escorted here?"
"It’s the Prince’s order, milady," Cora firmly replied. "Please, let me help you get cleaned up now. You’ll soon join him for dinner."