Chapter 11: I cannot love you
The King scoffed, his lips curving into a wry, astonished smile as his piercing gaze swept over her. Who could have foreseen that the rumored timid Duchess, wife of the Duke, would possess the audacity to propose marriage to him?
He had often wondered what manner of woman Quinn’s mate might be, and to his surprise, she stood in stark contrast to the meek figure he had imagined. If truth be told, he was impressed, this encounter served as a sharp reminder of the disadvantage of judging a book by its cover. Her boldness was nothing short of remarkable.
Turning on his heel, the King strode purposefully toward the grand chair at the center of the room, his voice cold as he asked, "And why, pray, should I aid you in this venture?"
"You shall, Your Majesty," she replied with unwavering confidence, prompting him to halt mid-stride and cast a sharp glance back at her.
"Bold, are we?" He remarked with a smirk, shaking his head as he finally took his seat.
"It is not boldness, but certainty," she returned, her tone steady. "You find me intriguing, and your curiosity will compel you to learn more. Moreover, you are bound by a curse to remain without a mate. I am your finest option."
Her words hung in the air, unapologetic and deliberate. Though she was no expert in the ways of men, she was not ignorant of their desires. She had caught the way his gaze lingered upon her from the moment she entered the room, a mixture of interest and fascination. While she dared not assume affection, she knew his curiosity was strong enough to secure her footing.
The King chuckled, brushing an invisible speck of dust from his gloved hand. "There are countless women who would vie for such a position. Do not be so certain of yourself, Belle." Her name fell from his lips in a tone so smooth and seductive that she faltered for a moment, her breath catching. Though tempted to hear him utter it again, she thought better of it and cleared her throat instead.
"They may vie, but they all know of your curse," she replied, her voice steady despite the tension in the room. "You have tried to claim a Queen before, and each one has ended her life before the wedding night. They fear you."