The Devil's Betrothed novel Chapter 321

Chapter 321: Doesn’t Concern You?

Oriana continued her stride, each step carrying her forward into the night.

Beneath the velvety embrace of the starlit expanse, a serene lake glimmered, bathed in the tender luminescence of the moon’s silvery touch. Towering trees encircled the water’s edge, their leaves whispering hushed secrets in the cool breeze, which carried with it the faint fragrance of blossoms.

A delicate mist hovered above the water’s surface, lending an otherworldly aura to the scene. Amidst this tableau, a dashing man, garbed in an effortlessly stylish ensemble, stood poised and confident. His silhouette melded seamlessly with the serene backdrop of the water. A sense of innate elegance radiated from his bearing, a testament to his self-assured nature. His hair danced gently in the breeze, bestowing a touch of untamed allure to his otherwise composed demeanor.

The man exuded a magnetic charm, a quiet intensity that the moonlight, in its gentle radiance, seemed to amplify. His countenance boasted chiseled features and a strong jawline. The moon’s glow played artfully with the angles of his face, casting soft shadows that accentuated his masculine contours. His eyes, profound and penetrating, mirrored the lake’s shimmering depths, hinting at enigma and complexity.

Thump, thump.

At the sight of him, Oriana’s heart fluttered momentarily. She inhaled deeply, willing herself to regain composure.

’Don’t let him overpower you today. Maintain your stance.’

She approached Arlan, positioning herself to face him, a respectful nod accompanying her lowered head. "Greetings, Your Highness."

Arlan’s gaze lingered on her, a silence enveloping them as if he sought to absorb her presence entirely. The rhythm of her heartbeat did not escape him.

In response to his quietude, she lifted her head, meeting his gaze. Beneath the night’s embrace, beneath the stars, he stood magnificently handsome, prompting her to wonder, once more, at his allure. It was as if the universe had invested its efforts into crafting this singular masterpiece, designed to captivate any onlooker.

"It’s a pleasure to see you here, Lady Ria," he finally broke the silence, his eyes holding a tender affection.

Though Oriana understood that this tenderness was meant for the mask she wore—a facade named Lady Ria—she couldn’t help but contemplate if he’d regard her the same way without the veiled pretense, as the humble servant she truly was.

"Likewise, Your Highness," she murmured, her gaze retreating momentarily.

Arlan’s scrutiny persisted. ’She acts tough when defending Lady Ria, yet now, she seems so fragile and submissive. How many facets does this woman carry?’

Time would grant him the opportunity to discern her complexities, yet in this instance, he wished to relish her presence as she stood before him, veiled in the illusion of Lady Ria.

"I’ve heard you were initially reluctant to meet me," Arlan noted.

While burdened with guilt over her deception, she could only reply, "I apologize, Your Highness. I was..."

"My aide encountered some challenges in conveying messages between us. Oddly enough, that young fellow was trying to defend you, as if you were his master rather than I, Lady Ria."

"Is that so?" She regarded Arlan. "He’s a likable young fellow."

A fleeting smile graced Arlan’s lips. "You’ve my agreement."

Oriana found herself slightly taken aback. ’Is he admitting he finds me likable?’

Arlan continued, "He was genuinely defending you when I mentioned you are avoiding me after taking advantage of my body. It appears he holds a rather favorable opinion of you."

Cough! Cough!

A cough disrupted their exchange as Oriana was once again taken aback. ’Taking advantage. This man is delusional.’

"Are you well, Lady Ria?" Arlan inquired, a step toward her.