Stefan’s Captive Bride

Beneath The Oak Tree

Sofia woke up the next morning to the warm rays of sunlight peeking through the windows of her chamber. She stretched her arms, feeling the softness of the luxurious bed beneath her. As she sat up, she rubbed the sleep from her eyes, her gaze drifting around the opulent room.

Despite the beauty of her surroundings, Sofia felt indifferent, a sense of detachment washing over her. She couldn't explain why, but the events of the previous night seemed like a distant dream, leaving her with more questions than answers.

The memory of Stefan's intense gaze, the mysterious figure lurking in the shadows, and the cryptic notes all swirled in her mind, but she couldn't muster up the emotions to feel invested. It was as if she was observing her life from afar, unable to connect with the world around her.

She wondered what the morning had in store for her. She was still barely talking to herself when a group of maids walked in with the middle aged one leading them in front. Sofia recognized her as she had earlier introduced herself. It was Lucy. the housekeeper, the one who had dressed her up when Stefan had first brought her here. Behind her were other maids all dressed in similar uniforms of white fine linen and aprons. They were carrying woven baskets adorned with intricate golden threads and delicate silk ribbons. The baskets themselves were made of high-quality wicker, polished to a warm sheen that seemed to glow in the morning light.

As the maids approached Sofia, they carefully set the baskets down on a nearby table, revealing an array of exquisite royal outfits and ornaments. The garments were crafted from the finest silks, velvets, and satins, in a palette of rich jewel tones that sparkled and shone in the sunlight.

Lucy, the housekeeper, curtsied low, her eyes shining with a warm smile. "Good morning, Your Highness," she said, her voice gentle. "We've brought your royal attire for the day. The king and queen request your presence at the state function, and we must ensure you look your absolute best."

Sofia's gaze wandered over the array of garments and ornaments, feeling a mix of awe and trepidation. She remembered when she used to attend state functions with her dad and here she was still attending the same state functions. ”What an irony” she thought.

“What about Prince Stefan? Will he be there?” The words were forced to come out of her mouth.

“Of course he will” Lucy replied with a soft grin

A subtle smile curved out of her lips as for some reasons unknown to her she felt happy that he would be there. She had not seen him since last night and she was forced to express her concern again

“Do you by chance know where he is?” She asked Lucy again

“I don’t know? Wasn’t he with you last night?” Lucy asked as she raised her eyebrows in confusion

“Oh Yeahhh” Sofia tried to cover up as she cleared her throat

“Well he must be in the garden, as that is his favorite place to be if he’s not in the palace” Lucy added

“Oh” Sofia noted nodding her head

Sofia's eyes sparkled with curiosity as she thought about Stefan being in the garden. She remembered the way he had looked at her the night before, and a flutter in her chest made her feel alive.

"Thank you, Lucy," Sofia said, trying to sound nonchalant. "I think I'll go for a walk in the garden after I get dressed. The fresh air will do me good."

Lucy smiled knowingly, but said nothing. She began to help Sofia get ready, assisting her into a stunning gown of silk and satin. The dress was a soft shade of blue that matched the color of Sofia's eyes, and it sparkled with intricate embroidery.

With a newfound sense of determination, Sofia turned to Lucy and said, "I'm ready. Let's go."

Lucy curtsied and led Sofia out of the room, down the corridor, and into the bright sunlight of the garden. The air was filled with the sweet scent of blooming flowers, and the sound of birds singing in the trees.

Sofia's eyes scanned the garden, searching for Stefan. She spotted him standing by an oak tree, his back turned to her. Her heart skipped a beat as she felt mixed feelings of both excitement and fear. She had made the rash decision to come here not knowing what she was even going to do here.

"Lucy, I think I'll be fine from here," Sofia said, trying to sound calm. "You can leave me now."

Lucy smiled and curtsied. "As you wish, Your Highness. I'll be back to escort you to the state function later."

With that, Lucy turned and disappeared into the palace, leaving Sofia alone in the garden with Stefan.

Before Sofia could say anything, She heard Stefan’s cold voice. “What are you doing here?!” He sounded out making her shudder

“I-I-I came to see if you were o-okay-y” She stammered

“Especially after the way I saw you last night” She added, freezing at the spot which she stood. What was she doing? She asked herself squeezing a part of her gown and questioning why she had even come in search of him in the first place

He turned around with force and started walking towards her, making her freeze more in fear. His eyes were red again and his fangs were slightly out. When he had gotten to where she was, he stood face to face with her panting heavily.

“Why do you have to be so innocent?!” He growled at her

“Why do you have to care about me even when I treat you as a commodity?!” He growled at her again making her shiver

“Answer me!” He demanded grabbing her neck

Sofia shrieked in pain due to the intensity at which he was twisting her neck.

“You’re h-h-hurt-ting me” She managed to voice out. Stefan realizing himself released her from his grip making her cough vigorously as she held her neck.

“I never want to see you here again. Get out” He said to her casually and turned back to face the oak tree