In Darkness

Chapter Five

He turned the knob and the door slowly swung open. The room was large. Well, large was probably an understatement. This room could easily fit four of her quarters in here with room to spare. The walls were a pale purple and adorned with gold. A lush white fur was laid at the foot of the bed, and a fireplace was burning opposite the bed. Artwork of flowery fields hung above the headboard giving the room a whimsical feel.

Sitting in an overstuffed white chair in the corner was the King himself. He looked absurdly out of place in a room full of flowers and pastels. The stark contrast was almost enough to pull a laugh from Willow's lips, but years of experience with her mother taught her that that might end in a lashing and she was still injured from the one she received last night.

"Are you going to come in or just stand in the doorway?" The King's voice echoed around the room, making Willow flinch, an action that didn't go unnoticed.

"Apologies your grace. I am not sure what I am supposed to be doing here." Willow said shakily, wondering if that was the wrong thing to say.

"You are supposed to be resting for the trip home. Where are your maids to help you into your nightdress?" The King spoke softer this time, trying to be mindful of his tone. His brows furoughed as he watched her wring her hands together.

Home. My new home. Willow thought. It was odd to her that she even considered this palace home, since she hadn't felt like she belonged here since her father died and now she was about to have a new home.

"I don't have any maids." Willow admitted, looking at her feet.

"You ar-were a princess here. What do you mean you don't have any maids?" King Kieran looked at her with confusion.

"I... I usually just look after myself, Your Grace." Willow wanted to shrink back into the wall and disappear. No one had ever cared whether I had maids before, so why was this such a big deal now?

With a huff, the king stood. "Come here and turn around," an order.

Willow hesitated for a moment. She was very aware that she was alone with a strange man. A strange man that she was now bound to and had an obligation to bare children with.

Sensing her hesitation, he said, "I just want to unlace your gown so you can put on your night dress. You really must sleep well tonight."

Her brows knit together at his kind demeanor. Nothing like the bloodthirsty king she had anticipated. Still, she followed his orders and approached him, turning her back to him despite her gut telling her not to.

She ran her hand through her hair and swooped it over her shoulder to allow him access to the lace.

His fingers worked quickly to loosen the knot and she couldn't help but wonder how many times he had done this for other women.

Suddenly, she felt his fingers stop moving. Then they were gently tracing over her bandages and scars. His touch was so soft that she could barely even feel him. Her breath hitched in her throat.

"Who did this?" He asked, his voice hard.

"It was my punishment. I broke the rules." She stated simply.

"What could you have done that deserved something like this? When was this done?" The King's voice shook with a subtle rage.

"The bandaged ones are from last night. I was caught out in the garden after dark without an escort. My mother says its too dangerous and stupid to ever be alone, especially at night." She explained as best she could while holding back tears.

"I see." He backed away from her. "There should be a night dress over there that you can put on. Change and rest. I will have food sent up shortly." and after that he quickly left the room.

Willow stood there, stunned by what happened.

Did he change his mind now that he knew of my disobedience? She wondered.

She shook her head, dismissing the thought and finished disrobing. Finding a soft linen gown to put on, then climbed into the plush bed. It was covered with silk sheets and had almost instantly lulled her to sleep. A knock on the door made her eyes shoot open and she bolted up in the bed and pulled the blanket to her chest.

"Sorry to disturb you, Your Majesty. The King had requested a platter be sent up for you." The kitchen maid, Rita, walked in and placed the platter on the bed near Willow. "Is there anything else I can get you?" Her tone was bitter.

"No. This is fine. Thank you." Willow answered.

"Very well." Rita curtsied and left the room. A gesture that made Willow laugh.

Rita had never been kind to her before and now that she was treating her like any other royal person, it just felt absurd.

"What alternate dimension have I entered?" Willow laughed to herself, but her voice sounded hollow.

Then she glanced at the platter of various meats, cheeses, breads, and fruit. Her stomach growled loudly in response and she realized she hadn't eaten since yesterday.

Might as well enjoy it while I can. She mused, before digging in and stuffing herself until she felt she might bust.

Between the full belly, the glass of wine, and the silken sheets, Willow drifted into a deep restful slumber for the first time in a long time. No longer concerned about what tomorrow would bring, because right now she was content.