Chapter 159: One More Time
Rose nodded as Zethan’s expression returned to normal.
How had this happened so fast? How had she managed to nod and agree to that? Not to mention the fact that Zethan had actually said that to her. But why... did he care?
’Don’t think so far, Rose, her inner thoughts warned. He only said that to protect his image. What would happen if rumors spread that you and the king’s cousin were together? What would happen if...’
That thought shattered all the others she had been trying to hold on to. Yet, for some unknown reason, those words leaving his lips made her heart skip a beat. It thudded loudly in her chest, and she was scared someone would notice.
They both walked silently toward the large door just as it opened. She and Zethan stepped into the dining hall. Her lips parted slightly—only because one of her weaknesses was food—but she managed to keep her behavior composed. She knew full well she was now queen, and she needed to act like one.
Though she kept her emotions under control, the mouth-watering scent was almost too much to handle—not to mention, back in the village, chicken was only prepared on Sundays, as it signified a good week. But here... it was seen all day. Zethan’s lips curled into a faint smile as he noticed her expression. Rose’s face flushed deeply as Zethan moved to pull a chair out for her.
She curtsied gently before sitting down and mouthed a soft, "Thank you."
Zethan gave a curt nod before taking his seat as well.
They began to eat in silence. The only sound in the room was the clinking of cutlery. Rose, Zethan, and Zack sat quietly until Zack finally broke the stillness with a soft voice.
"My King..." he said.
Zethan slowly raised his head, his eyes sharp.