Chapter 29: the bet

At the end of the day I could only curse myself for asking him to confirm what he said, rather than replying 'yes, Killian why not.'

But my inner voice shouted that how would she have any idea, that he would not accept what he had said.

Sighing, I accepted my fate, "okay, okay you did not."

He nodded back, again sitting silent. Since dinner was done, I even got confirmation of him, joining me for the party. My work was done for today.

I had to go and listen to the ending of Isabella too from Norma.

"Alright then, I shall go now," I informed him but he did not react.

'Is he also lost in thoughts as I do?' I tilted my head to the side when he whispered, "are you alright, your highness?"

'Huh?' "I am alright l... Killian, I am happy.`` I replied in confusion. "It was you who were hurt in both of our previous meetings, and I regretted it. I apologize, lord, Killian."

He shook his head lightly, "it was not your mistake your highness, there is no need to apologise." he replied in a softer tone.

I just nodded as I did not know how to reply, there were many mistakes. I even had mixed poison in his food, but I could not tell him that.

Even when I came back, I wanted to befriend him just to save my life. What right did I have to curse others when I was also full of selfish desires?

But now when I looked at him, he was more pitiful than me. Though Cassius did not love me, my childhood was full of love and warmth. My father always cherished me and my mother always played me, even when her relatives used to laugh at her, that she did not behave like a noble lady sometimes. She still fulfilled my every whim.

That's right,

My next goal was to play with Killian.

"Lord Killian, what do you do in your free time," I asked him with big bright eyes blinking at him.

"I practice sword and horse riding. I even go to the library to read about the history and economics of the empire," he replied proudly.

I snorted, what's there to be proud about in being boring?

"So you are trying to be the next Cassius, Killian." I wanted to reply normally but my voice still sounded cold.

He felt the difference, I could see in his eyes but still nodded, "I am the heir of the dukedom your highness."

"But you're also a child lord Killian.'' I pointed to the obvious yet the forgotten truth.

"I am no more a child your highness," he replied, raising his chin.

He was trying to look more mature and taller but all he was looking like a pouting baby.

I stifled a laugh and asked, "I would much prefer if you could spend some time with me playing in the garden."

"I am not a kid, your highness." He repeatedly told me he would not waste his time playing.

I nodded my head, "Then let's make a bet.'' I replied with a mischievous glint in my eyes.

"A bet," he asked, tilting his head.

I nodded "yes, a bet, if I won, it will be proved that you are still a kid. then, you will play with me in the garden. But if you win, I will agree that you have grown up now, then I will not pester you anymore."

He looked at me, for a while. Contemplating whether he should accept the idea or not. What I felt like an eternity, he finally nodded, "what is the competition."

"Horse riding," I replied confidently.

"Are you sure, your highness?" he asked looking at me from top to toe.

I raised a brow, 'is the doubting me now' "I am very much sure, Killian."

"But I never saw you riding a horse." he finally asked what was bugging him.

"You have not seen me doing many things Killian" I replied with a laugh.

He nodded, agreeing that he did not know much about me.

"When would you want to have the competition?" he asked again.

"On Sunday, when you would get off from your study. I don't want you to tire out yourself.'' I replied with a smile, an itch taking place in my hands to ruffle his hairs.

He nodded, smiling at my thoughtful gesture.

"Then I shall take my leave now, see you tomorrow, at the chamber, Killian,'' I replied standing up.

"Good night your highness" he replied standing up too.

"Uh, Killian, look here," I said, suddenly turning back.

When he did, I kissed him on the cheek and walked out hurriedly.

He was too stunned to reply but I had seen her widened eyes, and ears getting red.

Even the maids were looking at me with horror-filled eyes as if I had taken their chastity. One thing I was sure about that soon their eyes would bulge out permanently. I laughed at the mischievousness I had done.

That's also the style of the bold beautiful villainess in red. Ah, what a name, if a book was written over me in the empire I would name it villainess in red.

I walked taking fast steps toward my own chamber as the night had settled in.

Just when I entered, instead of laying comfortably or taking a tea, I turned and called,

"Norma" my voice was filled with curiosity and anxiety

She bit her lips in nervousness and nodded.

My eyes filled with glee.

"Leave everyone, Norma stay and massage my hairs."

Everyone bowed and left the room. When I was sure no one was around, I sat on the sofa and ordered

"Speak"

"I gave her the white roses bouquet telling her it was a gift from the royal chamber, your highness."

"And," I asked anticipated

"And she had taken it with glee. As you had predicted, Lady Isabella had started scratching her hands just in a few seconds."

(a morning treat for all those readers who supported me, I was a bit emotional last night as someone claimed I am a thief. but thank you, you all are right. I should look forward to your kind words and avoid those who criticise me. thank you for boosting my confidence)