Page 3 of Dreams of Ash and Smoke

When it first started, I’d allowed it– welcomed it, even. He told me I should be happy to please him because he will be king and he wanted me comfortable before we have children together.

Now the thought makes me want to hurl.

Chapter 2: The Garden

Verena

3 Days until Coronation

The coronation was getting closer. The court whispers of my queenship constantly, the chatter filling my ears as I walk the halls. I fist my hands in my dress, trying to maintain my breathing so they don’t know how nervous I truly was as I walked.

Hadeon stays by my side as we leisurely stroll through the palace garden, a place of beauty that never fails to captivate me. Blossoming flowers of every hue embellish the lush greenery in a breathtaking display of nature’s artistry. The air is filled with the sickly sweet scent of roses and peonies, carrying us along like a fragrant breeze. I can’t help but pause at each familiar flower bed, admiring the intricate patterns and vibrant colors that dance together in perfect harmony. It is a serene oasis within the bustling palace grounds, and I can’ imagine a more peaceful escape from the demands of royal life.

With just the two of us, I twirl my hands nervously and ask Hadeon, “Do you think I have what it takes to be a good queen?”

A deep, rumbling chuckle escapes from Hadeon’s lips and I found myself unable to look away. His features are strikingly handsome, with chiseled cheekbones and hazel eyes that seem to gleam in the sunlight. Even though I had always been dedicated to Dryston, I can’t deny that Hadeon wasundeniably attractive. Without the looming pressure of my engagement hanging over me, I would consider pursuing him without hesitation. “You never fail to ask me that question every week, princess,” he remarks, his voice smooth like velvet.

I sigh, “I told you to call me Verena when we are alone, Hadeon.”

He came to a halt, and I mirror his actions, facing him as he reaches out and grasps my arm. His voice drops to a hushed tone as he spoke, “We are hardly ever alone, princess. As a protector, it is my duty to see things that you do not.”

My brows raise, looking around now in suspicion. “Am I alone when I am in my quarters?” I ask in a whisper, staring at his handsome face.

His eyes peruse my face, before nodding, “I would never allow someone to disrupt your peace, my Queen. You are always safe when I am around, and I am always around. I swore my loyalty toyou, no matter who hired me to protect you.” Chills ran through me, goosebumps tickling my skin. I only nod in response to his ominous statement. He stands straight once more and starts walking. “Yes, you’ll make a wonderful queen. One that people will remember for centuries past your rule.” I smile, nodding in thanks. He gave me the same answer every time I asked and never once complained about me constantly doing so.

As his words settle into me, I thought about the specifics he spoke;no matter who hired me to protect you. What an odd way to phrase that sentiment.

We continue in silence walking through the floral arrangements as I choose some for our coronations and our wedding— just a few days until he is crowned. “What about you? What is your dream? You know I am becoming queen but what do you want?”

He chuckles and I can sense the unsure feeling he has about answering. “I don’t have anything.”

I scoff, “That is ridiculous. Everyone has a dream.” I smell pink flowers, sighing in content at the scent.

“Fine then. Your happiness.”

“What? That isnota dream!” I laugh, smacking him softly on his muscular chest.

“Yes it is. My dream is to see you happy. Thriving.” We stop walking for a moment and face one another. “I dream of everlasting happiness for you. If there is anyone in this world to deserve it, it is you, Verena.”

Silence ensues once more and my heart is full of love and appreciation. He truly is my family in this kingdom. “I just worry, you know? I know everyone’s expecting me to become queen, they have since I was born. But…” I trail off, not wanting to say what is actually on my mind. The air around me changes and suddenly, I do not feel as if I can say what I think. A bird flies into my walk path from the bushes, making me jump out of reflex. I breath heavy, placing my hand over my heart as if it will help calm myself.

“But?” He asks me in a smooth voice, as if the bird did not faze him. I shake off the bird’s presence and look at him, giving him eyes that sayI shouldn’t sayand he seems to understand. I’ve spoken to him before about my dreams of the aurora borealis— dreams I definitely should not be having. “If I may, I think you are more complacent than you should be. You’re a smart, skillful, capable fae. Prince Dryston should feel lucky he has you as his queen, even if you are too amenable with him. I know you’re not always quiet about your opinions, but I think you could be louder.” His eyes bore into mine, almost as if he were daring me to do so.

“Then it is a good thing you do not get paid to think, Hadeon.” A jolt of fear shoots down my spine as a deep, familiar voice pierces the air. I grip my dress tightly between my fingers once more, heart racing. His intense gaze remains fixed on Hadeon, sending shivers down my arms and making my palms slick with sweat.

Hadeon takes a step from me and we both bow. “Your Majesty, Hadeon did not mean-” I start and Dryston raises his hand to stop me and out of reflex I obey rolling my lips together, knowing Hadeon was mentally rolling his eyes at me as I look to the ground in submission.

“Hadeon meant what he spoke, but I do not care for the trash coming from his mouth. I know you obey me and you are proud to do so. As a queen should.” His eyes sparkle with something I can’t place, but I know it made me nervous. “Walk with me.” It’s not a request but a demand and I link my arm through his awaiting one while Hadeon steps further backbefore trailing behind us.

“I want to speak to you about your duties. My coronation is in a couple of days and you’re doing well with the preparations.” My heart wants to sing the praise. “But,” He starts back and my heart stops singing and starts screaming, begging him to just see me for all that I am and do for him instead of the mistakes I might make. “I notice the colors are not what I want.” My brows furrow.

My heart races as we came to a halt, my mind reeling with anxiety. He releases his grip on my arm and I immediately began rubbing my hands together and picking at my fingers, a nervous habit that had plagued me since childhood. Those vivid shades of color have consumed my life for as long as I could remember, seeping into every aspect of it and fueling my obsession with understanding them.

“I told you red was going to be the main color. I see barely any.” I stare into his eyes, waiting for him to tell me it was a joke. No one chose different colors. Tradition has been using green and silver since the beginning of the kingdom. And if he told someone, it wasn’t me.

“Dryston, I assure you I have heard no such thing.” Confusion marking my face until I recognize my words when he stares at me, eyes darkening in fury. Not only did I just tell him he was mistaken, I called him by his name. My eyes widen and subconsciously took a step back to brace myself for the hit, my hand flying to my stomach to keep my lunch down. I look at him, watching the anger dance behind his light green eyes. My eyes flick to Hadeon, thankful he was here but I also know the punishment would be worse later. “I am so sorry, Your Grace. I meant no disrespect. I know you are busy and there has been much on your plate. I just mean, are you sure you hadn’t told someone else and they forgot to mention it to me?”

He scoffs, “I am no idiot, Verena. You are the future queen of this country. You are supposed to be in charge of these tasks. If you can’t even take care of minuscule things such as color schemes, how can I trust you to take care of my kingdom? Why do you always have to be so confrontational and opposing? Fix it before the coronation or there will be no crown and no wedding for you.” He shook my arm off of him like it disgusts him andstruts off but before he can get far, he turns to look at me. “I will see you tonight.” He whispers but not low enough for my royal guard to miss it.

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