chapter 27 sweet bullying

The moon cast its silvery glow over the castle, illuminating the shadows within. Leo's grandfather, the venerable Elder Blackwood, summoned him to his chambers at the stroke of midnight. The air was heavy with unspoken secrets as Leo arrived, his emotions long numbed by the trials of his past.

"Leo, my boy," Elder Blackwood began, his voice low and solemn. "Victor, the king, is not your blood relative. He married your stepmother after your mother's...passing." The old man's eyes clouded, as if memories of the past still lingered. "Be cautious around her, Leo. I tell you this now because it's time you knew."

Leo's expression remained stoic, his voice flat. "Okay, thanks for telling me, Elder Blackwood."

Elder Blackwood's gaze searched for any sign of emotion, but Leo's walls were impenetrable. "You won't ask questions or dispute this, Leo. Just accept what I've said."

Leo nodded curtly, his mind already racing with the implications. "If you'll excuse me, Elder Blackwood, I have matters to attend to."

As Leo departed, Elder Blackwood's voice followed him. "Leo, please forgive me for not telling you sooner. I didn't want to burden you further."

Leo's long strides devoured the distance to his bedchamber, his fury simmering beneath the surface.

...

The next morning, Emily rose with the sun, her beauty radiant in a royal blue, off-the-shoulder gown. Her hair cascaded down her back like a golden waterfall as she made her way to Leo's quarters, accompanied by maids and guards.

Upon entering Leo's bedchamber, the maids giggled, witnessing the prince's future bride tiptoeing toward him. Emily's cheeks flushed as she whispered, "Shh, he's asleep. Don't wake him."

As the door closed, Emily's eyes locked onto Leo's peaceful form. She sat beside him, admiring his features, and her heart skipped a beat. Without thinking, she leaned in, her lips brushing against his in a gentle kiss.

Leo, feigning sleep, was taken aback by Emily's boldness. He swiftly pulled her into his arms, their faces inches apart.

"You weren't sleeping," Emily accused, her face aflame.

Leo's smile was mischievous. "I wasn't. I wanted to see what you were up to."

Their lips met again, Leo's kiss searing and gentle. Emily's breath caught, her pulse racing.

As they parted, Emily's cheeks still flushed, Leo shamelessly whispered in her ear, "You're so beautiful when you blush, my love. I wonder if you'd look just as lovely with my marks on your skin."

Emily's cheeks and neck blazed beet red, her eyes widening in surprise. She hadn't expected such bold words from Leo.

"Leo!" Emily whispered, her voice trembling.

Leo chuckled, his eyes gleaming. "Don't be shy, my love. I'm just getting started."

Emily's heart raced, unsure how to respond to Leo's tantalizing words.

Here's the continuation of the chapter:

Leo's words sent shivers down Emily's spine. He continued his sweet torture , showering her neck, shoulders, and lips with sweet, gentle kisses. Emily's cheeks burned, her heart racing.

"Leo, stop!" Emily pushed him away, her voice trembling. "I'll tell your grandpa you bullied me!"

Leo chuckled, his eyes sparkling with mischief. "I doubt Elder Blackwood would believe you, my love."

Emily's face still flushed, she climbed down from Leo's bed, bouncing around the room with excitement. "Guess what? I met with the witch yesterday!"

Leo's expression turned serious, his interest piqued. "What happened?"

Emily clapped her hands, barely containing her joy. "I have magical powers, Leo! The witch said I'm a Natural Elementalist!"

Leo's eyes widened, impressed. "That's incredible. Tell me more."

Emily settled beside him, her enthusiasm bubbling over. "The witch said I can control the elements – air, water, earth, and fire. She taught me how to harness my powers, but I need to practice."

Leo listened intently, his gaze never leaving Emily's face.

"There's more," Emily continued. "The witch wants me to meet her tonight, under the full moon. She'll teach me advanced spells."

Leo's expression turned thoughtful. "I'll accompany you tonight."

Emily's eyes sparkled. "Really? You'll come with me?"

Leo nodded. "I won't let you face this alone."

Emily's gratitude warmed her heart. "Thank you, Leo."

As Emily moved closer to Leo, he whispered, "Keep a safe distance, my love. Don't forget how cute you are."

Emily's face flushed anew. "Stop, okay? I won't come closer. I'm done telling you. Bye!"

She hastily exited the bedchamber, calling over her shoulder, "You bullied me, but I won't tell Grandpa because you're cute."

Leo chuckled, the maids and guards exchanging amused glances.

One maid whispered, "Is she serious?"

Another guard smiled. "Seems the prince has met his match."

As Emily disappeared into the corridor, Leo's thoughts lingered on her. Tonight's meeting with the witch would reveal more about Emily's powers and their connection.