A ROYAL OBSESSION

Maya could still feel the intensity of his gaze, his words, and his breath on her skin. Her cheeks flushed red, and her heart raced in her chest as if it might leap out. Was this happening? No, she wasn't supposed to feel this way—he had no right to make her feel excited. This wasn't what she wanted.

But Maya couldn't deny that he exceeded all her expectations. She had anticipated a man of average height, out of shape and unattractive, yet here he was, the most handsome man in all of Vylonia, perhaps even the entire world. His tall and sturdy frame made her feel as if he could protect and cherish her, even if that notion felt absurd.

Still, she needed to remind herself not to be swayed. She had heard the rumors swirling around him—good looks alone didn't redeem a person. She wondered what their married life would be like, what lay beneath that striking exterior.

With the wedding ceremony behind them, it was time to head to the castle. She pushed down any thoughts of what the night might entail; she wasn't prepared for any of it, and maybe she never would be. Everything felt rushed, and she wished she could wake up to find that none of this was real—but deep down, she knew better.

Having never been close to a man before—only held hands with Peter, and that was it—this was uncharted territory. The idea of giving her first time to a stranger was unacceptable.

She had to find a way to stall him or annoy him enough that he'd lose interest. After his cryptic remark during the wedding about leaving kisses on her skin, it was all too clear that he enjoyed that sort of intimacy.

But she didn't, particularly not with him, and certainly not now. She was far too overwhelmed.

The night fell into a heavy silence as Maya and Leon stood side by side, the sound of the carriage breaking that stillness. She looked at the black carriage adorned with golden flower prints and knew it exuded royalty. Taking a deep breath, they were about to leave.

"My lady?" he asked. She met his gaze, realizing she had kept him waiting as her hands fell into his outstretched palm.

Nervously, she slipped her hand into his, and he led her to the carriage, opening the door for her before she climbed inside. She settled next to the window, only to realize he hadn't followed her inside.

Confusion washed over her. "Why aren't you coming in?" she wondered inwardly but said nothing. He answered her question without a word leaving her lips, but just the look on her face.

Leon's gaze was piercing. "Unfortunately, important business requires my attention. I can't be with you tonight," he stated.

"That's alright," Maya replied, her voice betraying her relief. Finally, they wouldn't have to spend the night together, and a weight lifted off her shoulders. Thank goodness, she thought inwardly. She had concocted countless strategies to keep him at bay, and now fate had intervened. Yet, she couldn't help but question what could be more important than their wedding night.

Leon's eyes narrowed at her, "You don't seem disappointed," he remarked, and her heart skipped a beat as she realized he had seen through her facade.

Gathering herself, she replied, "I... I am," but he saw through the lie with ease.

"I understand this must be uncomfortable for you. Use tonight and possibly tomorrow to prepare. When I return, we will consummate the marriage," he declared firmly. The gravity of "definitely" weighed heavily on her. His determination was clear, and no amount of evasion would deter him.

At a loss for words, Maya felt trapped. "People are already waiting for you at the castle. Go and have a good night's rest, my queen," he said with an even expression.

She nodded, and then, the carriage began its departure. Maya didn't glance back—not even once. Relief washed over her as the carriage rolled into the night, creating distance between her and the man who seemed determined to rewrite everything she thought she knew.

The carriage rolled through the gates of the castle, and Maya sat up straight, surveying her surroundings. It was dark, and while she couldn't see everything clearly, the size of the place was undeniable. The carriage turned right and came to a halt. Finally, she had arrived. Taking a deep breath, she prepared herself for what lay ahead. When the door opened, the coachman was there, ready to assist her.

Maya placed her hands in his, and he helped her down slowly. Once she stepped onto the ground, she looked up at the towering building before her. It was majestic, but the night obscured the details. The flickering torches offered only a glimpse; she would have to wait for morning to fully appreciate its grandeur.

"I'll take my leave now, Your Majesty," the coachman announced, pulling her from her thoughts. She had forgotten, for a moment, that she was the queen.

"Thank you," she replied assertively, hoping she sounded composed. The coachman bowed slightly and retreated, the carriage rolling away as she inhaled deeply.

As she approached the double doors, the guards acknowledged her presence, stepping aside to let her in. This was the first time she would be recognized in such a manner, and she felt the weight of the moment. Unsure of what to do, she glanced at the guards before they bowed their heads and opened the door for her.

"Thank you," Maya said, moving inside. Just as she had been told, people awaited her arrival. They bowed once again, and she returned the gesture with a nod. "Your Majesty, I am Nadira, your servant," one young woman introduced herself, revealing a friendly smile. "Please follow me; you must be tired."

"Thank you, Nadira," Maya replied, following her lead. As they walked, she took in the surroundings of the castle, shrouded in shadows except for the illuminated torches that paved their way. The red carpet beneath her felt foreign, and she noted the closed windows and drawn curtains. The darkness was oppressive, reminding her of a painful past. She didn't like being in the dark, not since that night. Though she felt anxious as figures emerged from the shadows, she held her head high and followed Nadira.

Soon, Maya found herself in a lavish bath, Nadira and a few other maids attending to her needs. One held clothes, another a towel. The experience was surreal; previously, she had bathed alone, but now, the attention was overwhelming. They washed her, dried her, and prepared her for her new life. The bath was silent except for the soothing sound of water and gentle massage, and she found the luxurious setting relaxing. When it was time to apply oil to her skin, she felt a wave of discomfort.

"I'll handle that myself," she asserted, surprising the maid who had been ready to assist.

"You need not, Your Majesty," the maid replied softly.

Maya firmly shook her head. "I insist. I can do it myself." She took the oil from the maid, turning to the side to apply it. The presence of the other women, while well-meaning, felt intrusive.

"Her Majesty seems shy," Nadira observed quietly. "We must serve you, Your Majesty. I know this is new, but you'll adjust in time," Nadira added, aiming to ease her discomfort.

Maya then slid into the silky robe, enjoying its smooth texture against her skin. After her hair was brushed to perfection, she made her way to the bed. The luxurious king-sized bed, adorned with red silky sheets and a warm duvet, beckoned her. She knew this night would be the most peaceful one she had experienced in a long time.

"Should we bring tea, your majesty?" Nadira asked, her tone suggestive.

Maya's lips parted slightly; she had no intention of drinking tea tonight. Sleep was her priority. "No, thank you. I don't need tea," she replied firmly.

"But it may hurt without it," Nadira pressed, glancing nervously at the other girls.

"What would hurt?" Maya responded, a hint of confusion in her voice.

Nadira hesitated before explaining, "When you and his majesty consummate your marriage, it could be painful, and I thought tea might help you relax."

Maya's cheeks flushed, but she held her ground. "Oh, no. He's not coming back tonight, so there's no need to worry about that. I don't need the tea," she asserted.

Nadira hesitated for a moment, wanting to say more, but ultimately smiled and said, "If that's the case, I won't disturb you any further, your majesty. Please enjoy your evening, and don't hesitate to call us if you need anything."

"Yes, thank you," Maya replied, her tone confident as they bowed and exited the room. Sighing with relief, she reminded herself that she had two nights to prepare before he returned.