Chapter 11 royal introduction

🔥

Emily woke to a radiant morning, the sun's warm rays peeking through her window. She stretched, feeling a mix of excitement and nerves. Today was the day she'd meet Leo's grandfather.

Eager to avoid her aunt's inquisitive gaze, Emily quickly dressed and slipped out of the house. The stunning red, off-the-shoulder gown hugged her curves, accentuating her porcelain skin. Her hair cascaded down her back in soft waves, framed by subtle makeup and bold red lipstick.

As she descended the stairs, Jenkins's eyes widened in admiration. "Miss Emily, you look breathtaking," he said, offering his arm.

Emily smiled, feeling like royalty.

Upon arriving at Leo's estate, Emily gasped at the grandeur. The mansion's facade shimmered like gold in the sunlight, its architecture a blend of modern and ancient elegance.

"Wow, this is stunning," Emily whispered to Leo, who chuckled.

"You'll see more of this when you're with me," he whispered back, his breath tickling her ear. His hand lingered on her waist, sending shivers down her spine.

As they stepped into the foyer, Emily's eyes adjusted to the opulent chandelier's glow. Leo's family members mingled, their faces a blur until she spotted Patriarch Blackwood.

Tall, with piercing eyes and silver hair, he exuded authority. Emily's heart skipped a beat.

"Grandfather, this is Emily," Leo introduced, his hand still resting on her waist.

Patriarch Blackwood's gaze swept over Emily, his expression unreadable. "Welcome, Emily. I've heard a great deal about you."

Emily curtsied, feeling a flush rise to her cheeks. Leo's fingers traced the curve of her shoulder, his touch sending sparks through her body.

"Please, relax," Leo whispered, his lips brushing against her ear. "My grandfather won't eat you."

As they sat in the lavish study, Patriarch Blackwood questioned Emily about her childhood, her passions, and her dreams. Emily answered candidly, her voice steady.

Leo's family members listened intently, their reactions a mix of curiosity and surprise. Emily noticed a few familiar faces: Leo's aunt, Lady Victoria; his uncle, Lord Thomas; and a cousin, Alexander.

Leo's hand found its way to Emily's knee, his touch warm and possessive. She felt a flutter in her chest, unsure how to react.

Just as the atmosphere relaxed, a soft-spoken woman, Lady Elizabeth, spoke up. "Leo, what about your childhood sweetheart, Sophia? Are you still planning to marry her?"

The room fell silent. Leo's expression darkened, his grip on Emily's knee tightening.he immediately released his grip and robbed it slowly.

"That's not relevant now, Elizabeth. Emily is my chosen bride," Leo replied, his voice firm.

Emily's heart skipped a beat. Childhood sweetheart? She hadn't expected to feel a pang of jealousy.

Patriarch Blackwood intervened, his voice playful. "I thought my grandson was gay, my goodness! Leo, you've surprised us all."

The tension dissipated, replaced by laughter. Emily smiled, pretending the mention of Sophia hadn't unsettled her.

As the evening unfolded, Emily met more family members: Lady Catherine, Lord Michael, and Lady Sophia's brother, James.

Lady Victoria approached Emily, her eyes warm. "Welcome, dear. We never expected Leo to find his bride so soon."

Emily's cheeks flushed. "Thank you, Lady Victoria. I'm honored."

As the night drew to a close, Patriarch Blackwood rose, his eyes twinkling. "Emily, you've charmed us all. Welcome to the Blackwood family."

The room erupted in applause, and Emily's heart swelled. She had passed the first test, but little did she know, the real challenges lay ahead.

Leo's arm wrapped around her waist, pulling her close. "You're mine now," he whispered, his lips brushing against her ear.

Emily's pulse quickened, her heart racing with anticipation.

As they departed, Leo slipped a dazzling diamond ring onto her finger. "This is an official declaration of our engagement. We'll throw a party soon."

Emily's eyes widened, her heart skipping a beat.

"I have much to discuss with you, Emily," Leo said, his eyes locked onto hers. "Will you stay with me today?"

Emily hesitated before nodding. "I'll stay in the guest room."

Leo smiled. "Jenkins will arrange for supplies. You'll have everything you need."