“Maria?” The male voice echoed.

I grumbled. I didn’t want to get out of bed. Not for Marcel, but I had a feeling that he was not going to leave me alone.

“Maria?” Marcel’s voice echoed once again as he pounded against my door.

“Coming…” I grumbled as I found the strength to get out of my bed and walk towards the door.

Maria. Théoden scolded me. Dress yourself first.

Shit! There was no way in hell was I going to let Marcel see me naked.

“One moment Marcel!”

I shouted as I ran towards my wardrobe and pulled out a new sweatshirt and slipped it on. I walked over towards the door, took a deep breath and opened it.

“What do you want?” This was the last thing I wanted to deal with today. I knew my voice sounded harsh, as my stance wasn't any better. I was giving him an attitude and to be fair, I didn’t care.

“Good afternoon to you too.” Marcel’s eyes narrowed as he mimicked my attitude. “I heard of the alteration in Caroline’s workspace and wanted to check in on you.”

I couldn’t help but roll my eyes, “Sure you do.”

“Are you suggesting something?” Marcel questioned as his eyes narrowed even more if that were even possible. I sensed he was trying to read into my own words and my body language.

“No, sorry, it has just been a long day.” I sheepishly apologized for the attitude I had given him.

“Understandable. Getting attacked by a mannequin like that can be traumatizing.”

I felt my own eyes narrow as I crossed my arms, “So does getting attacked by the one you are supposed to marry.” I muttered. I slapped my hand across my mouth after I said it and felt my face turn red.

“I never truly apologize for that, did I?” Marcel’s body remained calm as he spoke the words. “I am sorry for the attack that I did on your life.”

This text was taken from Royal Road. Help the author by reading the original version there.

I felt the edges of my mouth quiver. I was confused at the turn of events. “I uh…thanks.” I muttered.

“Your betrayal hurts. So, I wanted you to hurt.” Marcel confessed to me.

“Understandable.” I mouthed.

I appreciated his apology though it did not help my wounds. His apology was a few weeks too late.

“I hope in time you can forgive me for that.” Marcel said.

“Time will tell…” I muttered beneath my breath.

I watched Marcel as he watched me. Studying my body language, looking for any indication for faults. I couldn’t help but do the same. He seemed a bit sincere with his apology however, I sensed a hint of deceit in him.

What do you think of this?

I questioned Théoden. I was curious to see his opinion on the situation.

I don’t trust it. He had too much enjoyment out of attacking you. That I know.

Théoden was right. His behavior during that battle showed no remorse whatsoever. It shown, enjoyment instead. He enjoyed torturing me that day. That I knew.

“Regardless of that matter, I have a question. I felt your magic use earlier. It was well intriguing.” Marcel said as he leaned himself up against the wall in the hallway.

So this is what this was about. He’s just trying to butter me up to learn more about my magic.

Just use your words wisely.

Théoden reminded me.

“I had to utilize it. The mannequin was charmed.” I told him.

“I thought that mannequin was always charmed?” He questioned me further.

“Yes, but someone enhanced it further.”

“Huh. Well, it is a good thing you knew how to handle the situation.” Marcel responded.

“Training must be paying off..” he muttered beneath his breath.

“What was that?” I asked him. I hoped he would repeat what he just said. As what he said confirmed our feeling that we had that someone was following us this whole time.

“Don’t mind me. I’m glad you are doing better. I will see you tomorrow for your formal celebration.” Marcel said as he started to walk down the hall. In an attempt to avoid further questioning.

“See you tomorrow.” I muttered back and watched him walk down the hall.

I closed my door as soon as he was out of sight and slumped against it. I sighed in relief.

This isn’t going to get any easier is it?

I’m afraid not Maria.

At least I have you to keep me sane.

Of course Maria. It's my duty to keep you grounded.

I smiled softly. Without Théoden, I had no idea what would have come of me by now. Would I be dead? Or would my own kingdom locked me away and deem me incompetent to rule? Thankfully, I didn’t have to worry about any of that.