Mateo turns as he hears footsteps, his breath catching in his throat at the sight of Esmeray. He takes a step closer, his eyes raking over her gown and makeup. "You look... breathtaking," In more complex words he means she looks stunning, more beautiful then the flowers in his garden, and more captivating then the three thousand diamond chandelier hanging above them.
"Thank you, you look handsome yourself. Shall we get going?" Her compliment turns him on. If it wasn't for tonights event he would gladly take her away and show her how handsome he is without clothes too.
Mateo offers his arm, his touch gentle yet firm. "Yes, let's," he says, leading her towards the door.
"Remember, stick close to me. And whatever happens, maintain your composure."
".And Princess... I meant what I said. About trying."
"Trying for what?" Mateo's gaze locks with hers, intense and unwavering. "A child," he says, his voice barely above a whisper.
"I meant what I said about trying to conceive after the seventh day."
"...we have no choice, even if I myself don't want to. But let me make myself clear, we will consummate and if I don't end up with child then, we won't try again. The next full moon is in three months, we will try again then"
"Is that so? And what if I refuse to agree to these terms, Princess?"
"Then you can have children with a whore. Our agreement is clear, not to mention we have no need to lay in bed together after all we have no feelings for each other"
"But things change, Princess."
"You want to go back on your words? Why?" She asks turning to meet his eyes, filled with intense admiration or could it be lust. Mateo takes a step closer, his presence commanding and imposing.
"Because," he says, his voice low and dangerous, "I find myself increasingly... attracted to you, Princess. And I grow tired of these pointless restraints."
His words boild her blood. "Attracted? Prince Xerxes when you heard of this marriage you called me different names. Many against my character. You cursed to the heavens, asking why me out of all the kingdoms. You acted like a child, a spoiled one at that. You sent me a letter how much you will dispise me. How much you you will look down on me. All without knowing me. " She says standing her ground
Mateo's eyes flash with a mix of anger and admiration at her defiance. "You misunderstand, Princess," he says, his voice softer but no less intense. "I do see you as an equal."I see you as a worthy adversary, a challenge to be conquered," Mateo continues, his gaze piercing.
"And I always rise to a challenge. I apologize for my childish behavior. I spoke out of knowledge, I have never met you, and spoke of you as I did. When I first laid eyes on you, your beauty caught my eyes I'll admit. But what captivated me more is your fierce look, how you carry yourself with grace and power." He confesses, looking at Esmeray who only looked ahead.
"The more I spend time with you the more I get lost in you. Give me a second opportunity to show you I am not what the rumors say I am."
" I promise to be the worst challenge for you yet. But I will not fall in love with you, I will play the role of a good wife that is all."Mateo's lips curl into a smirk, a hint of excitement in his eyes.
"I have already fallen for you," he says, his tone dripping with eagerness. He steps closer, wrapping one arm around her waist while tilting her head to face him with the other. He rubs her cheeks, passing over her plump lips.
"We should present ourselves now, Prince"
Mateo offers his arm once more. "As you wish, Princess," he says, leading her towards the door. "Let's go face this treaty signing together."
Mateo stands beside, his posture regal and commanding as he addresses the gathered rulers.
"Today marks a new era for our kingdoms," he begins, his voice strong and clear. "An era of unity, strength, and prosperity. Together, with our kingdoms united, we shall face whatever challenges lie ahead. And together, we shall prevail."
"Our relationship is the start of something new. My people, I have always wanted to make you proud and I hope that I have achieved so through this marriage." Esmeray address her loyals before addressing her new subjects"To the people of Celestia I hope I become someone you can rely on" Mateo watches as she address the crowd, a flicker of respect in his gaze.
"I know you expect us to consummate and become with child. So we shall try our best to do so" Mateo's eyes widen slightly at her public declaration, a hint of surprise and something darker flickering in their depths.
"Indeed," he says, his voice low and smooth. "We shall... make every effort to fulfill our duties."The crowd applause at their declaration. They indeed are expected to be parents sooner then later.
The night caries on with celebration. Since they are no longer at the Roseville Castle they must sleep together.
As the celebration winds down, Mateo leads the very tired Princess to the shared chamber, his hand resting lightly on the small of her back. "It seems we're stuck together for the night," he murmurs, a hint of amusement in his tone.
"Yes....I will have a maid come and help me undress"Mateo nods, his gaze lingering on her for a moment before he turns away. "Very well," he says, beginning to unbutton his own shirt. "I'll waite for you in bed."