Chapter 9: The duke passionate Kiss

Invitation and Objection:

In the palace of Ada, Aya's mother, preparations for a grand celebration were underway. Hylos received an invitation from Ada's servant, and his face lit up with excitement. He saw this as an opportunity to escape Iras's watchful eye and enjoy some freedom.

Hylos entered Iras's chambers, where the General sat reading. Hylos approached him, holding the invitation paper, his face beaming with joy. "I've been invited to a celebration at Miss Ada's palace," Hylos announced, expecting Iras to share his enthusiasm.

However, Iras continued reading, his expression unreadable, until he finally spoke. "You cannot attend."

Hylos's smile faltered, and he took a step closer to Iras, his brow furrowed in discontent. "But I have an invitation! Why must I always follow your orders? You're just a General, and I'm the Grand Duke of Egypt!"

Iras set his book aside and stood, his eyes locking onto Hylos's. "Fine, but I'll accompany you."

Hylos's scowl deepened, but he knew better than to argue further. He reluctantly agreed and headed to his chambers to prepare for their outing.

Dazzling Appearance:

Hylos gazed into the ornate mirror, admiring his reflection. He wore a long, golden robe, adorned with intricate accessories and jewelry. His curly hair cascaded down his back, framing his heart-shaped face and striking golden eyes. He beamed with satisfaction, feeling like a celestial godfather.

Just then, Iras knocked on the door. Hylos emerged, finding Iras waiting for him. Iras's eyes widened in awe, captivated by Hylos's stunning appearance.

Hylos approached Iras, his face inches from the General's. He whispered, his breath caressing Iras's skin, "Am I too handsome, General Iras?" His voice was laced with seduction and playful teasing.

Iras's cheeks flushed, and he seemed to stutter, his eyes darting away. Hylos's finger brushed against Iras's lips, silencing him. The General's face burned with embarrassment, and he hastily retreated, turning his back on Hylos.

Hylos smirked, amused by Iras's reaction. He savored the moment, knowing he had playfully unsettled the General.

Royal Gathering

In Ada's palace, numerous royals had gathered, including Rabik. The atmosphere was lively, with music, dancing, and merriment filling the air.

Suddenly, the crowd bowed as Crown Prince Murako arrived, invited by Ada. Ada, accompanied by Aya, welcomed Murako warmly.

"Thank you for attending, Crown Prince," Ada said.

Murako smiled, presenting Ada with a large, ornate box filled with exquisite jewelry. "This is my token of appreciation and a gift for you, Miss Ada."

The room erupted in applause, but soon fell silent as all eyes turned to the entrance. Murako's gaze followed the crowd's, and his eyes narrowed as he spotted Hylos, resplendent in his dazzling attire, captivating the attention of the entire assembly. Hylos's ethereal beauty seemed to mesmerize the crowd, and Murako's anger simmered, feeling overshadowed by Hylos's presence.

Murako approached Hylos, his voice measured. "I didn't expect the Grand Duke of the Valley of Kings to attend."

Hylos smiled, pouring himself a glass of wine from a nearby decanter. "I'm a special guest, Your Highness. Despite your higher rank, I seem to have captured the hearts of the people here. It's as if I've descended from the heavens."

Murako's face darkened, his anger rising. "How dare you!" He raised his hand, ready to strike Hylos.

Iras intervened, grasping Murako's wrist. "Your Highness, please refrain."

Murako's eyes widened in surprise, and he turned to Iras. "Why did you defend him against me?" His voice was tinged with sadness, his gaze searching Iras's face.

Iras's expression remained calm. "Let us not forget, Your Highness, that Duke Hylos and I are still married." His words were laced with a subtle warning.

The air was thick with tension as the three men stood there, the weight of their unspoken emotions hanging like a challenge.

Passionate Encounter:

Iras grasped Hylos's hand, leading him away from Murako's watchful gaze. Hylos winced, trying to free himself from Iras's firm grip.

"Ouch... Iras, that hurts," Hylos protested, struggling to break free.

Iras pulled Hylos to a secluded area, away from prying eyes. "I allowed you to attend, but not to provoke Crown Prince Murako," Iras reprimanded, his voice stern.

Hylos managed to extricate his hand from Iras's grasp. "Let me go. I'm not a child, General Iras. Yes, I agreed to your accompaniment, but don't always cling to me like a leech."

Iras's expression remained unyielding, but he relented, allowing Hylos to return to the celebration.

Hylos immersed himself in the festivities, drinking and laughing with the beautiful women surrounding him. Iras watched from a distance, his eyes narrowing as he observed Hylos's antics.

Suddenly, a woman danced too close to Hylos, and he shared a brief, intoxicating kiss with her. Iras's eyes flashed with anger, and he strode toward the couple, his glare intimidating.

"Leave," Iras commanded, his voice low and menacing.

The woman fled, frightened by Iras's intensity. Hylos, still under the influence of alcohol, merely smirked, observing Iras's jealousy with amusement.

Iras's anger simmered, but he restrained himself, instead gently lifting Hylos and carrying him to the guest room in Ada's palace.

Hylos's eyes widened in surprise as Iras laid him on the bed. "Iras, what's going on?" he asked, his voice laced with concern.

Iras's expression softened, and he whispered, "You infuriated me."

Before Hylos could respond, Iras's lips claimed his, their passion igniting in the darkness. Hylos initially resisted, but soon found himself reciprocating Iras's fervent kiss.

As they broke apart for air, Hylos witnessed Iras's tears, and his heart swelled with compassion. He gently cradled Iras's face, wiping away his tears, and initiated another tender, loving kiss.

In the silence, their smooches and gentle murmurs filled the room, a testament to their rekindled passion.