Simina arrived back home a little later than usual. Her mind was preoccupied with what happened with Nar in the woods. Gloria was back. Simina didn't know how to act around her now that she knew what she knew. Gloria narrowed her eyes at Simina into dangerous slits.
“Where have you been?” Gloria sniffed. Simina's mind reeled for an answer. She couldn't tell Gloria, or anyone else for that matter, that she'd been in the woods kissing Nar. So she lied.
“I stayed late at Etiquette School,” Simina lied. She smiled to herself at her secret. She thought about telling Olivia since Olivia was sort of her friend. Wanting to be alone to think her thoughts and think about Nar, Simina ran away upstairs to hide.
* * *
The very next day, Saturday afternoon, Simina sat at the kitchen table, studying her etiquette books. She hummed happily, thinking of Nar, thoughts of him scrolling through her mind. Simina couldn't really focus too well on her etiquette study books because her head was in the clouds. Her mind kept replaying the scene with her and Nar in the woods. She kept blushing and smiling at the memory, picturing herself kissing Nar.
Simina kept trying to remember the feel of the kiss, the feel of him, the feel of everything, the feel of all those sensations that she had never felt before until now. Simina didn't know what to call this feeling, but every time she thought about Nar and kissing him, she felt this warm, crazy feeling inside of her, like she wanted to do something to him and with him that made her feel good. She didn't know what to call it, but it was desire.
Simina felt her insides burning. She'd never heard of sex before, or puberty. She didn't know what hormones were either. No one had ever explained this to her and now she was having sexual feelings for a man and she didn't know what these feelings inside of her were. She was confused and so overwhelmed with emotion that she didn't know what to do with herself. Simina thought about asking Aunt Lyda about it but didn't know if she'd understand.
Aunt Lyda, busy lifting heavy pots and pans onto the stove, had been calling Simina for minutes. Someone was at the door, and Aunt Lyda couldn't get it. Olivia wasn't in the kitchen at the moment, and Gloria was upstairs, getting ready to come downstairs, alerted by the pounding on the door.
“Simina!” Aunt Lyda shrilled. “Simina!” Simina jumped, startled, now finally becoming aware of the pounding on the door.
“Huh?” Simina felt dazed. Aunt Lyda grunted.
“Open the door!” she shouted. Simina jumped to her feet. Gloria tried to beat Simina to the door, but Simina got there first. Simina opened it. A Royal Soldier stood at the door. He saluted Simina.
“Good evening, lass,” he greeted her. Simina bowed her head, wondering why there was a Royal Soldier on the porch.
“Hello,” Simina greeted him in return. She noticed he held something in his hand.
“Are you Simina Gorchev?” he asked her. Simina nodded, curious.
“Yes, I am,” Simina responded. What he was holding, he handed to her. It was a small envelope, addressed to her from Prince Nar.
“The Prince wanted me to give it to you. He said he would have come and delivered it himself, but he's busy,” the soldier explained. Simina took it, recognizing Nar's elegant handwriting.
“Thank you,” Simina mumbled, staring at the envelope.
“Have a good day,” the soldier bid her, and left. Simina shut the door. Still staring at the envelope, she walked over to the table, and sat. Gloria tried to snatch it from her, but Simina slapped her hand away.
“It's addressed to me,” Simina snapped and tore it open. She pulled out a neatly folded piece of paper. Simina unfolded it. Around the edge of the paper was a string of black roses. Olivia and Gloria peered over her shoulders as Simina read the letter.
My dearest Simina,
You have been invited to attend the Royal Ball by His Royal Highness Prince Nar. It's on Saturday, starting at 8:00 p.m., in the ballroom. It would please me ever so greatly if you would come. There will be, of course, some dancing, and hopefully some romancing as well. Wear something lovely. I hope to see you there.
P.S. If you have nothing to wear, please go to Matilda, she will assist you.
Love,
Prince Nar.
Simina felt a thrill of excitement inside of her. Nar was personally inviting her to the Royal Ball. A smile threatened to curl her lips. Gloria next to her flared with jealousy and hate. She stomped her foot.
“Of course, you get invited!” Gloria blew up, face red. Angry and jealous, she stomped away back upstairs. Olivia was excited, however. She squealed.
“Ooh, you got invited by the Prince himself!” Simina stood, excited. She did not respond to Olivia. Since the ball was tomorrow, Simina wanted to pick out a dress today. She decided that she'd do what Nar suggested and go to Matilda for a dress.
Simina didn't know how to act around these people here. All of a sudden, she felt a little funny and didn't know what to call the feeling. She just wanted to be away from them all right now. Olivia kept ogling, Gloria kept being a bitch, and Aunt Lyda was just...a little unsocial. Simina felt like she didn't really have anybody to talk to.
So, Simina told her aunt where she was going and that she'd be back later and left. She got on her horse and rode to Nar's castle. She walked in but didn't see Nar. Just like Matilda knew she was going to be coming, she was in the foyer waiting for Simina. She waved at Matilda.
“Hi Matilda!” Simina greeted her happily. Matilda smiled.
“Hi Simina, what can I do for you today?” she asked Simina. She showed Matilda her invitation.
“I got invited to the ball, and I was hoping you'd help me pick out a dress for it,” Simina told her.
“I thought you might come. Please follow me. I have dresses for you to look at,” Matilda said, and started up the stairs. Simina quickly followed behind Matilda. She took Simina into the dressing room, which you accessed from the parlor.
Inside there were many wardrobes and racks filled with pretty dresses of all colors and sizes and styles. It was the prettiest thing she'd ever seen. There were many dresses here than at the dress shop. Her eyes widened and her face showed an expression of astonishment. She gasped.
“Oh wow! This is amazing!” Simina exclaimed. Simina ogled everything. All of the dresses were so pretty. Simina went around to admire each one, stroking her hand across each gown. Matilda lifted a lovely red gown from a rack. She admired the dress and twirled it around.
“This one is pretty,” Matilda said. She held it up to Simina and assessed it closely. After a minute or two of contemplation, she shook her head.
“No, I don't think that one will look good,” she said, and put the dress back on the rack.
For the next hour or so, Simina looked at and tried on a lot of gowns. She tried on many different ones with different colors and styles. Finding her right size was the main trouble. Some dresses were too small and others were too big. Doing this made Simina feel like a queen, or some sort of princess. She thought a lot about Nar and every time she tried on a dress, she wondered if Nar would like how she looked in it.
Simina wanted Nar's approval. She wanted to look good for him. Simina knew he liked the color purple, as did she, so she wanted to wear something purple, something that matched the color of his eyes. Simina loved his eyes. They enchanted her, entranced her. Simina loved everything about Nar. His personality, his style, his hair, his face, his eyes, his sweet smile, the way he walked, his scent, the way he felt when she fell against him when he held her, etc. Simina loved Nar with all of her heart. She wanted to be with him, but how could they be together when there were people like Gloria and Nar's uncle in the world?
Simina, tired of thinking these thoughts and worrying, slumped down into a chair with a sigh. She felt so pitiful.
“Oh, I'm in love with the Prince,” she said, and sighed wearily. Matilda stopped what she was doing and gave Simina a wary look. Her eyebrows rose. There was a slight blush to Simina's cheeks, and a dreamy, dazed look on her face. Matilda didn't know what to say or to think about that.
“Well...” Matilda exclaimed to herself. She was startled by Simina's words. Simina sighed, gazing out into space, thinking about Nar. She wondered where he was, what he was doing. She wanted to see him so she could hug him and he could hold her. There was nothing more Simina wanted than to be in Nar's arms.
“I don't know what to say about that...” Matilda mumbled. She'd guessed that Simina was in love with him by her actions and how she looked at the Prince when she thought no one was watching. Matilda had also caught them alone together in the garden when she was cleaning. She just happened to glance out the window and there she saw them, talking, giving each other that look. She wouldn't be surprised if Prince Nar married the girl. Ignoring what Simina just said, she continued looking for the right gown for her. Simina sat there in the chair, staring off into space, a space filled with Nars'.
Matilda, on the other hand, picked out a pretty purple gown off of the rack. She smiled in admiration at the gown's beauty. The handmaiden knew that Simina would really like it. She brought it over to Simina and showed her.
“Simina look, I really think you'll like this one,” Matilda said, holding up the gown. Simina, coming out of her daze for a moment, looked up. She gasped in awe of the beauty of the dress.
“Oh Matilda, it's lovely, absolutely lovely,” Simina gushed, standing up. It was a long gown with ruffles all the way down the skirt, covered in purple glittering sparkles. Along the bottom of the skirt was a string of black roses sewn along at the bottom, on the edge. The bodice of the dress was covered in purple sparkling glitter and sewn all along the waist were more black roses. The front of it drooped down in the shape of an elegant V and the sleeves were long and covered the shoulders. The gown was exactly the color of Nar's eyes. Simina took it from Matilda, staring at it adoringly.
“Oh Matilda, may I try it on, please?” Simina begged, yearning. She smiled and nodded.
“Yes dear, go right ahead,” Matilda said. Clutching the gown to her body, feeling the silky fabric beneath her fingertips, Simina went into a fitting room. Thankfully, she had no trouble putting it on and getting into it. The gown went all the way to the floor, covering her feet. Simina enjoyed the feel of the silky smooth fabric against her skin. It pleased her immensely. At the end of each sleeve, the fabric stopped in the middle of her hand in the shape of an upside-down V.
Simina stepped out of the fitting room to show Matilda. She cheered with delight at the sight of Simina in the dress. Simina found moving in it quite easy. The color matched her skin tone perfectly. It fit snugly against her body shape, fitting her curves, pronouncing her lovely body shape that Nar admired.
Matilda clapped her hands together with glee, smiling from ear to ear. “Oh you look marvelous Simina, just marvelous! The Prince surely won't be able to take his eyes off you in that gown!”
Simina's face blushed pink at the flattery. She never really thought herself that pretty because she never really stopped to look at herself in the mirror. Simina smiled and wondered what Nar might be wearing to the ball. She was sure that he'd look so regal and handsome, dashing in all of his princely, graceful manner.
“This is the one,” said Simina. “I will wear this one.” Matilda sighed with a look of longing and approached Simina. She placed her hands on Simina's shoulders.
“You look just as beautiful as a Queen,” Matilda commented, admiring Simina's beauty, her stature and posture. To Matilda, Simina looked like she was made to be royalty, yet she was only born a mere peasant.
“Thank you,” Simina murmured, at a loss for words. She swallowed. Seeming all of a sudden timid, Matilda stepped back from her and bowed to Simina.
“If you wish, I will have the gown delivered to you tomorrow.” Simina nodded.
“I would very much like that. Thank you, Matilda, for your service,” Simina said in a regal manner. Then she went back to the fitting room to remove the dress so Matilda could have it cleaned, pressed, and sent to her. Bidding Matilda another thank you and a goodbye, Simina left the castle, dreaming of tomorrow night, when she'd be lost in Nar's arms.
* * *
Without delay it seemed to Simina, the next night soon arrived. Her excitement was uncontainable. But she also felt a high amount of anxiety. Nar-or rather the King-invited the rest of the populace. That meant Gloria, Olivia, and her aunt were going. But Simina, as far as she knew, was the only person invited by the Prince himself. She was excited, but also scared. She kept thinking that something might go wrong. Simina knew that tonight was the night where Gloria and Nar's uncle would try to kill her and the Prince by poisoning their drinks and possibly food.
Simina remembered not to eat or drink anything at the ball, so she ate at home before she left. She was all nervous and jittery inside. She did not know what to do with herself. Nar was sending a private carriage just for her to pick Simina up. Quickly, Simina went upstairs to get ready because she knew the carriage would be here any minute.
Matilda had already sent the gown in a box. Simina put it on and Olivia helped her put on a touch of makeup and did her hair. It wasn't put up, or anything fancy like that. It was just simply curled and part of it was pinned up in the back with a small hair clip. Simina didn't need much makeup. She was already naturally beautiful without it. Olivia only added a slight touch of eye shadow to accentuate her lovely eyes and a gentle, subtle blush to her cheeks and some simple lip gloss.
When Olivia finished, Simina took a quick glance at herself. She smiled, admiring herself and wondered if Nar would find her beautiful. Simina only wanted his approval, his attention, his love. She couldn't wait to see him tonight. The ball started at eight. That's when people would be arriving. In fact, it was about fifteen minutes till. Olivia smiled and clasped her hands together.
“There. Now you're ready!” she said. The door opened and Aunt Lyda popped in.
“Simina, your carriage is here.” She looked to Olivia. “You should start getting ready Olivia, we have to leave soon.”
Simina rose and allowed Olivia to drape a shawl around her shoulders. Simina inhaled sharply and breathed out a slow, shaky breath. She left her room and slowly descended the stairs, holding up part of her skirt. Simina didn't see Gloria anywhere. As she got to the door, Olivia and Aunt Lyda waved her goodbye.
“Have a good time!” Olivia called. Simina waved back, but said nothing. She walked out the door and boarded the waiting carriage that would take her to the castle and to Nar.
* * *
Upon arriving, Simina noticed quite a crowd of people coming in the gates, through the castle doors. Simina's excitement flared. She clutched her invitation in her hand, for she needed that to allow her access into the castle. Dismounting out of her carriage, she followed the crowd. Simina saw dozens of beautiful young ladies dressed up all fancy with an overzealous look in their eyes. She hardly saw any men, but she saw some here and there, swimming amongst the crowd of many women.
Light flooded out of the castle, streaming out into the night. Simina could hear the faint sound of music playing. The crowd formed a sort of line and when Simina passed through the threshold, she saw Oliver standing inside, just to the right a ways, dressed up real fine in a suit, his white hair combed and swept back, beard trimmed. He was taking invitations and putting them in a basket and then taking people's coats and hanging them on a coat rack.
Oliver saw Simina and offered quite a pleasant smile to her and bowed his head. Simina curtsied and handed him her invitation.
“Good evening, madam.” He greeted her and proceeded to take her shawl. Simina let him.
“Hello Oliver,” Simina greeted and smiled warmly at him. Then she passed on and followed the crowd through the foyer, towards two great big double doors under the stairs. They were wide open and that's where the music was playing from. It was a pleasant sound, a jolly sound. Somebody was playing a violin, and Simina also heard the light, gentle keys of a piano. She wondered who was playing it.
Simina figured, upon entering this new room, that it was the ballroom, judging by its vastness. Simina gazed out over the great expanse of the large ballroom. At the end of the long, wide and vast room, there was a slightly raised platform, with steps leading up to two thrones.
The King was seated there, dressed finely, looking his best. The other throne however, was empty to Simina's dismay. The room was gradually filling with people and some were already dancing to the soft, romantic music. Through the throng of people, Simina scanned around for Gloria. She's probably not here yet, considering she'd probably left a little after Simina. She did see Nar's uncle standing on the raised platform, speaking with the King.
But, Simina's dismay did not last long, for when she turned and looked to her right, she locked eyes with Nar, The Dark Prince. His eyes twinkled, aglow, and a smirk gently tilted up his lips. Simina's eyes were instantly drawn to his mouth. Her face flushed at the memory of her and him in the woods. Nar narrowed his eyes and his smirk grew wider. He lifted his chin in a very esteemed way, and proceeded to stride over to her, confidence in his steps. It didn't take him long to reach her, to close the short distance between them.
“Simina, I'm honored that you accepted my invitation,” Nar mused, voice wispy and silky, flowing sweet. He bowed to her with a distinctive flourish. Nar grasped her hand gently in his as Simina curtsied. He took in her appearance, eyes ravaging all over her and Simina saw approval dancing in his eyes. He pressed his nose to her hand and inhaled her scent, closing his eyes.
“Mmm..” A sweet sound resonated from his throat. Nar opened his eyes, locking them on Simina. Her breath caught at the intensity of the look in his glowing, purple eyes. She could not look away. Nar pressed his soft, feathery lips to the back of her hand, kissing it. He never took his eyes from her. She was too beautiful.
“You are radiantly lovely,” Nar gushed as he pulled away, dropping her hand. Simina blushed and lowered her eyes. She only had the courage to gaze at him from under her lashes.
“Thank you,” she responded coyly and took this advantage to take in his appearance. Like usual, he wore all black. His shirt was black linen and over top of that he wore a black blazer. Simina admired the way his black leather pants fit tightly on his legs, hugging his thighs, making those long, graceful legs look breathtakingly sexy. Nar's shoulders were brilliantly broad and his sharp collarbone peeked out from under the lip of his shirt. A button or two was undone and Simina saw part of his chest with a few hairs peeking out. His torso curved slimly as the jacket hugged his physique, curving down to a slender waist and hips. Nar was absolutely breathtaking, so handsome, and Simina lost all ability to think properly.
A soft, romantic melody simpered out into the air and started to play. Nar's lips stretched up into a smirk, and he offered Simina his hand, palm up. Simina noted the gentle, subtle dark peach fuzz dotting his cheeks and chin.
“May I have this dance?” Nar asked her softly, gazing intensely into her eyes. Simina didn't take her eyes off him as she placed her hand within his.
“Yes,” Simina whispered. Nar smiled and grasped her hand tightly, tugging her gently towards him. Simina placed a hand on his shoulder, Nar's hand coming swiftly around her waist. Simina's breath hitched at his touch and her skin beneath the fabric tingled. Their other hands clasped together.
Slowly, they started to dance, moving swiftly, moving their feet in sync with the music. Luckily, they'd taught Simina how to dance at Etiquette School. At the moment, Simina could hardly breathe. Her face was inches from Nar's and she stared straight into his deep, luscious purple eyes. Simina's breathing turned shallow. Everything and everyone else melted away into the background. She was completely mesmerized by him.
Nar took in the awestruck expression on her face. Her lips were slightly parted, her breathing shallow and quick. Her eyes were clouded and dazed as she stared dreamily at him. Nar smiled at her, cocking his head to one side. His eyes narrowed curiously.
“You look lovely, Simina,” Nar murmured softly to her, breaking Simina out of her daze. She blushed and Nar grinned. He liked it when she blushed and was glad that he was the one who caused it.
“Thank you. Matilda helped me pick it out,” Simina answered shyly. She cleared her throat, trying to clear her mind. Nar was amused. He enjoyed the way Simina looked at him. Simina felt her insides melt at their closeness. She felt his warmth spreading around her like a fuzzy, warm blanket. She stared at his full, luscious pink lips.
“You're really handsome,” Simina complimented, unable to take her eyes away. Nar smirked.
“Thank you. I know,” Nar replied smoothly. He kept his steps light as he moved. Nar twirled Simina around in a slow circle. He stared at her inquisitively.
“Remember not to eat or drink anything. Keep your eyes open,” Nar reminded her. Simina nodded.
“I know. I haven't seen Gloria yet,” Simina muttered. Soon, the orchestra playing ended, and the music stopped. The piece had ended. Simina and Nar stepped away from each other, and Simina felt disappointed at the separation. He bowed to her and she curtsied to him in turn. Applause followed and once the applause ceased, Simina saw the King rise from his throne. He held up a hand, silencing the buzzing of the excited crowd, drawing everyone's attention. The King smiled delightedly at them all.
“My friends. My people. It is such an honor to have you here tonight, joining us in the welcoming of our special guest: my brother. We are gathered here today to welcome him to our home and our kingdom. But this party isn't just for him. I know you all must know that I won't be here for much longer. My son the Prince is soon to take a bride to be his Queen. This ball is to give him the chance to pick a suitable bride to marry once I am gone.” The King stopped for a moment and smiled down at everyone. He sighed.
“But please, continue to enjoy yourselves. This is a night meant for pleasantries and revelry. Please carry on, carry on,” he urged. Finished with his speech, the King returned to his seat. The orchestra began to play again, and a soft but upbeat tune crooned melodiously into the air.
Nar turned back to Simina and held out his hand to her, a knowing smirk on his face. Smiling, Simina took his hand again. Nar pulled her into his arms, faces inches apart, closer than before. Simina felt his warm breath against her cheek. A strange, pleasant feeling pooled inside of her belly. She liked the closeness. A slight smirk kept his lips tilted up and there was a deep, sensual look in his eyes as he stared at her deeply from under thick lashes with beguiling eyes.
Simina couldn't help but stare at his lips. They looked plump, ripe, and succulent. She wanted to kiss those lips. They danced gracefully through the throng of people, dancing through the crowd.
“Can I ask you something?” Nar whispered softly. Simina smiled.
“Mmm. Yes,” she answered. He pulled Simina closer to him.
“Are you in love with me?” Nar asked her, voice growing really deep and low. Simina felt her face heat up and her breathing quickened. He pulled her closer, so close that she felt his lips brush against hers, his breath against her face. Her eyelids fluttered.
“And if I was?” Simina breathed. Nar spun her around, holding her away from him a moment until he pulled her back to him, clasping her hands in his. He pulled her so close to him that their bodies touched. Their faces were so close that Simina felt Nar's stubble scratch against her cheek.
“Then you'd be mine,” Nar breathed passionately into her ear, possessiveness filling his voice. Simina stifled a little sigh and her breath quickened. Nar twirled her around and then dipped her low to the floor, arm around her waist. Simina felt her blood dancing in her veins. Excited electricity sparked through Simina. Nar stared down into her eyes and she stared up at him. Simina's belly clenched deliciously. He looked so hot, so delectable. Desire boiled deep within the pit of her stomach.
Nar pulled her back to him and Simina put both of her arms around his neck. She gazed deeply into his enchanting, purple eyes, swimming in everything that was him. Simina wanted to be a part of him, she wanted to lose herself in him. The music faded and everything else around her melted away into the background. Simina wanted to be his, forever and eternally his. His scorching purple eyes burned hot, hot with desire. Nar wanted to be alone with her. They kept drawing closer and closer to each other, slowly leaning in to one another. Simina slipped the tips of her fingers into the ends of his soft, black hair. She ran her fingers gently through it, stroking softly through his hair.
Simina pressed her forehead against Nar's, taking in a deep breath, then breathing it out slowly through parted lips. They swayed slowly from side to side, in sync with the soft, sweet melody of the music. Nar brought his hand to the back of her head, tilting her head back ever so slightly. His lips parted. Simina's heart was pounding, pounding out of her chest. His lips grazed hers, and Simina fluttered her eyes closed, yearning for his kiss, waiting for it. He pressed a light kiss to her lips and before he could deepen it, another man's voice ripped right through their moment and tore it apart. Nar felt someone tap his shoulder. Nar and Simina broke apart from each other, separating. Simina opened her eyes, disappointed and slightly disgruntled.
“Hey there, nephew. Mind if I cut in?” Simina heard the voice of Nar's uncle say. Simina looked up to see him. He was squat and short, bearded and scary, also ugly. Simina hated simply seeing his face. Nar seemed irritated, but Simina knew he was hiding it as he showed fake politeness.
“Oh, not at all, uncle,” Nar said politely. He turned to Simina, resuming his stature of grandeur. His uncle then produced two glasses of sweet wine and offered them to Simina and Nar.
“Care for a drink?” He held them up proudly, a murderous glint in his eye. Nar held up a hand and shook his head.
“No thank you, uncle.” Simina also denied the drink, wariness creeping upon her.
“I'm not thirsty,” she said quickly, perhaps a little too quickly. His uncle narrowed his eyes and a desperate, troubled look replaced the murderous glint.
“Oh come on now, I insist. It isn't poison,” he said gleefully, shaking with laughter. He shoved the glasses towards the both of them. Nar smirked humorlessly, eyes narrowed.
“No. We don't want any drinks. Would you care to have one, uncle, if they aren't poison?” Nar challenged, eyes glittering with trickery and knowingness. His uncle made a face and stared distastefully at the both of them. Sweat slipped down his brow.
“No.” He shook his head nervously, and put the glassed drinks on the tray of a passing servant. He cleared his throat and composed himself, a hint of irritation and trouble still in his eyes. Smirking triumphantly, Nar cleared his throat.
“Please forgive my rudeness, uncle, this is Simina. I never got the chance to introduce you to her earlier.” Nar took Simina's hand, noticing her discomfort. She felt tense, like a coiled spring. Simina relaxed just a bit when Nar took her hand and breathed out in relief.
“Simina, this is my Uncle Julian,” Nar introduced politely. Simina curtsied to him and Julian smiled. He bowed to her and took Simina's hand.
“How do you do, Simina?” he greeted her, and bent to kiss her hand. Simina couldn't be sure, but she thought she saw a nasty, lustful desire in his eyes.
“I'm very well, thank you,” Simina responded kindly. Julian smiled at her and then turned his attention to Nar.
“I hope you don't mind, Nar, if I steal your girl for a quick dance. I'd like to get to know her better, if she is to be your future wife and queen,” Julian requested, holding out his hand to Simina. Simina saw Nar's lips twitch uncomfortably. His brow seemed to flinch. But quickly, Nar composed himself, even though he despised the thought of his Simina in Uncle Julian's arms.
With a fake smile and pursed lips, Nar nodded his agreement. Simina gulped. She internally shuddered at the thought of being that close to Nar's gross uncle who was conspiring to kill her and Nar, and had just attempted to poison them. Simina wanted to glare at him, but she held it back.
“Of course,” Nar agreed politely, smile false. He turned to Simina, bowed to her, and drifted away, melting in with the throng of people. Simina's eyes drooped and her heart fell. She wished Nar hadn't left her with Uncle Julian. Simina turned to him and took Julian's hand. He pulled her to him, taking her waist. Simina flinched at his touch. She did not like it.
Simina put her hand on his shoulder, taking his other hand, and they danced. She looked anywhere but at his face. She did not want to look at his face. It was too much for Simina to bear, being around the man who wanted to kill Prince Nar, the man she loved. He also stank, reeking of a terrible odor of something unclean, covered up with the stench of cologne.
“So you're Simina. How nice to meet you,” Julian greeted formally. Simina thought he sounded like a snake.
“Yes...” Simina responded dryly. Julian nudged her chin up with two fingers.
“Let me look at you. I'd like to see you better.” Simina was forced to raise her head. He stared at her closely. Julian slowly took in her beauty and immediate desire swept through him. He wanted her. He wanted Simina to be his. She was young, beautiful, and most likely a virgin.
Simina saw the lustful desire in his eyes and felt a great revulsion for Nar's uncle. She yearned to be back in Nar's arms, dancing with him, staring into his wonderful purple eyes. Simina felt squeamish.
“You are a lovely young lady, Simina,” Julian complimented her. Simina hated the blush that came into her cheeks. She looked down at her dancing, waltzing feet.
“I see why Nar has taken quite an interest in you,” he continued. Simina scowled to herself. He hardly knows me, she thought. How could he see why? It wasn't just her beauty that Nar liked. It was her personality, her sweetness, and her shyness.
“Thank you.” She tried to keep the bitterness out of her voice. Simina had half of mind to tell him that she was betrothed to Nar already so that he'd back off.
“How old are you, my dear?” he crooned. Simina gulped.
“Seventeen years,” she answered quietly. Julian felt surprise at this. She is seventeen and not yet married? he thought. Julian felt a thrill. He could have her as his. Yes. No one had claim over her.
Meanwhile, Simina was scanning the dancing crowd for Nar. In the crowd of all the dancing people, she could not spot him. Her eyes kept searching. Just seeing him would make her feel better, even just a little bit. Looking for him took her mind off of the fact of who she was dancing with. Finally, Simina spotted him, amongst the crowd. He was dancing with another young woman, someone she didn't know. At the sight of him, Simina felt her heart yearning to be by his side, to be with him.
“And you aren't married?” Julian's voice brought Simina's attention back to him, reluctantly. She shook her head.
“No,” Simina said with a sigh. This piqued Julian's interest even more, since it confirmed his assumption. Simina hated the fact that he was interested in her. She didn't want him. She didn't love him. Simina loved and wanted Nar, only Nar.
“You are young and eligible, Simina. You should use that,” Julian suggested. Unnerved, Simina looked up at him.
“What do you mean by that?” Simina sounded incredulous. He smiled at her in a very creepy way.
“Take advantage of it. Marry someone. With your beauty, you could woo any man into marrying you. Marry someone eligible, someone rich. There are so many eligible bachelors here. Like myself,” Julian explained, voice a low, disgusting husk. Simina blinked at him. She couldn't believe this.
“If you're willing...would you marry me? You're so young, lovely and fruitful, I'd be pleased to have you as my wife, Simina. Would you?” Julian asked, voice soft, sickly sweet and placating. Simina's heart jumped into her throat. At that moment, Simina began to look around for Nar. She spotted him easily and saw him leaving the ballroom. Antsy, Simina tried pulling back from Julian. She wanted to go after him.
“I...” she started. She swallowed, hard. Simina knew what she wanted to say, just needed the courage. She couldn't believe Julian was asking her to marry him, even after she'd already secretly pledged herself to Nar, without Nar's or anyone else's knowledge. Rage filled her small little body, and she shoved herself back from Julian, shoving him away from her with all the strength she had inside of her small body.
“No!” Simina shouted, ripping herself from his arms. Julian stopped, bewilderment writing itself all over his face. He looked shocked. Simina's face puffed up red and she glared at him.
“I...I'm already engaged to Nar! You can't marry me! I'm engaged to Nar!” she shouted shrilly. Her shrill, screechy voice was not heard by anyone else in the ballroom. It was drowned out by the loud music and the loud thrumming of the crowd. Without saying anything else to him, she turned, and pushed her way through the throng, running away. Simina couldn't stand to be around him anymore. How dare he ask me to marry him? Simina thought incredulously. She had to talk to Nar about this. There had to be something he could do.
Finally getting through the crowd, Simina followed where Nar went out of the ballroom doors. The music slowly started to fade out behind her as she walked deeper into the foyer. She saw the double doors ahead of her coming to a close, like someone had just left. As fast as she could in heels, Simina ran. It was actually more like a trot. She pulled up her skirts so she wouldn't trip.
Simina exited the doors and left the castle, heading out into the cold night. The snow crunched under her heels. She looked down at her feet and saw footprints in the snow, leading in the direction of the garden. Simina followed them. Just like she thought, they led to Nar, standing in the middle of the garden. He stood by the bed of black roses, caressing the petals of each flower. His back was turned to her, and Simina approached from behind.
“Nar,” Simina called out to him. He turned around to face her. Nar smiled, eyes meeting hers, and offered his hand to her.
“My Lady,” he whispered, voice like silk. Smiling, Simina placed her hand in his. Nar pulled her to him, hands clasped together, fingers intertwining.
“Why are you out here?” Simina wondered, the cool breeze biting into her cheek. Nar brought her hand to his lips and softly kissed her knuckles.
“I needed some air. And I needed to be alone, away from all those people.” Nar gazed up at the stars for a long moment. After a while, he turned to her, smiling.
“But it's better with you here,” he added. Nar squeezed her hand tightly, stroking his thumb across the back of her hand. They walked, hand and hand through the garden. Simina pulled him along, taking her time, sniffing all of the flowers. The garden actually helped soothe her, forget about all of her troubles. She was troubled, deeply troubled. They all weighed heavily on her mind.
Nar felt her squeamishness radiating through her limbs. The strain of worry was etched on her face. He noticed this about her and wondered what was causing her to feel that way. Nar turned to face her, pulling Simina in front of him.
“Simina.” He stroked her along her cheek with the back of his fingers.
“Something troubles you. What is it?” Nar asked her softly, cajoling her. Simina grabbed a fistful of his jacket, pulling him closer to her. Nar pressed her gently against the wall of the castle behind her.
“Tell me,” Nar urged gently. Simina frowned, brow creasing.
“Your uncle...” Simina began. She was unsure if she should go on now. Simina didn't know how Nar might react. She shook her head. She had to tell him. Nar waited patiently.
“Nar, he asked for my hand in marriage!” Simina cried. “He wants me to marry him!”
Nar's eyes widened, then narrowed, filling with outrage. He frowned and gritted his teeth together. He pulled Simina to him, taking her around the waist.
“No! He will not have you! I'll not let him! I'd kill him first! I've already claimed you as mine,” Nar growled, voice a passionate, possessive, seductive hiss. Without warning, Nar fisted his hand into her silky hair, tilted her head back and claimed her mouth with his. He parted her lips as his tongue entered her mouth, exploring. Nar gently pressed her against the wall, arms around her.
Simina moaned softly, twisting her tongue around his as they gently sucked on each other's tongues. He moved his lips on hers, savoring her taste, kissing her deeply, passionately, wildly. Simina was his. Nar wanted to prove that she was his. Simina's fingers dove into his hair, curling around the short, wispy strands. She pulled him closer, reveling in this sensation, his heat. Simina loved the way his lips felt so soft, the way his kiss felt so urgent and passionate, so possessive. Nar's hands slowly traveled higher, higher from Simina's waist, all the way up to just under her breast line.
Simina's hand traveled down his face, stroking her fingers across his throat, his pulsing pulse, trailing a sweet, sensual touch all the way down to his shoulder, then his collarbone. His skin felt hot, his skin felt soft, and he felt so muscular and good. Simina traced her finger slowly across his collarbone. Nar moaned, lips breaking from hers. Simina just realized the fact that her face felt hot. Nar grabbed Simina's hand, stopping her happy trail across his collarbone.
“Simina...” Nar murmured, breathy, his lips brushing gently against hers. Simina felt a tingling sensation in the pit of her belly. He pressed his forehead to hers, eyes closed, breathing in her lovely scent.
“Nar...” Simina breathed. Her fingers skimmed across his skin at the edge of his shirt. He grabbed her hand and pressed it against the wall. Nar held her hand in place, not allowing her to feel or touch him any further. He clasped her chin between his thumb and forefinger and kissed her once more. Simina slipped her arms around his neck, drawing him closer, enjoying the feel of his arms around her, his strength. She felt enraptured by him. She grasped a handful of his coat in her fist. Nar cupped her face with a gentle caress, his fingers twisting into her soft, silky hair as he stroked through the tresses. He tilted her head back, kissing her deeply, savoring her until he finally broke away from her, panting. Simina's lips were red and swollen from their kiss. She stared up at Nar with wide, sultry eyes.
Taking her face in both of his hands, Nar stared down at her with smoldering, blazing purple eyes.
“Mine. You. Are. Mine.” Nar's voice was a low, deep sexy possessive growl, sounding out each word independently. He licked his lips, licking Simina's saliva from his bottom lip. Simina couldn't take it anymore, the amount of emotion she felt for this man was too much, she'd held it back for so long. Simina had to tell him how she felt, she had to express her love. Tears sprang to her eyes.
“Oh Nar, I am in love with you,” Simina choked, tears streaming down her cheeks. She flung herself on Nar, pressing her face into his neck and nuzzled him, tracing her nose along his throat. Nar smiled and pressed his nose into her hair. He held her tightly against him, wrapping his arms around her. Stroking her hair, Nar kissed the top of her head. He laid his head upon hers and closed his eyes.
“Mmmm...” A lovely sound of contentment thrummed softly out of his throat, like he was purring. The sound comforted Simina, somehow soothing her. Simina relaxed into him, parting her lips, slowly breathing out. All of her worries melted away.
“Simina. My Simina,” Nar murmured sweetly, crooning to her softly. Simina smiled, nuzzling into him.
“I love you,” Simina whispered into his jacket. She whispered it so low that Nar almost didn't hear her, but he caught those three little words. He smiled, touched.
“And I love you, Simina my Lady,” Nar whispered in turn. Simina gently inhaled his scent, letting it flow over her, letting it intoxicate her, tracing her nose all over his collarbone. Nar tensed slightly, feeling the spring of arousal as he felt Simina's warm breath on his skin. Simina parted her lips and planted a feathery light kiss to his collarbone.
“I wish to marry you, Nar,” Simina murmured, her voice a low, sensual whisper. She tilted her head up slightly and pressed another soft kiss just to the underside of his neck. Nar's lips parted and his eyes fluttered, on the verge of closing. His breathing increased at a rapid rate. His grip on her tightened. She wants to marry me, Nar thought. Nar didn't know which was more arousing, her wanting to marry him or her kissing him on the neck. Both were equally arousing, and nothing was more irresistible than a woman who wanted to marry him.
Simina thought that she'd never want to marry anyone. She hadn't really found anyone to interest her, until now. That is, she'd never actually been around or involved with a lot of men. She's only known-well, associated with-three men in her entire life. Her father, Ernest, and now Prince Nar. The Prince that wanted to marry her and she him.
Nar pulled back to look at her, his eyes burning with undeniable love and passion. He caressed her face, gazing into her eyes.
“You want to marry me?” Nar asked, seeming surprised. Simina nodded.
“Yes. I want to marry you.” At her words, Nar smirked triumphantly. He gave her a soft, quick kiss.
“Soon, my Simina. Let's discuss this later. We have a party to get back to,” Nar wisped. Taking her hand, he led her back into the castle.