The Devil's Betrothed novel Chapter 379

Chapter 379: Conditions

She briefly contemplated remarking that the Crown Prince took after his father, but wisely decided to keep her thoughts to herself. In this gathering of powerful individuals, she was on the losing end and needed to tread carefully.

"It’s not the first time we’ve met," the King stated directly. "I must say, Philip has raised you well."

The King’s casual reference to her grandfather by name, without using any titles, despite being older than the King, left Oriana pondering two possibilities. ’Either the King and my grandpa are close friends, or the King doesn’t hold my grandpa in high regard.’

Oriana briefly entertained the thought of saying, ’I wish I could say the same about you and the Prince,’ but she decided to hold her tongue. Instead, she asked, "May I know what His Majesty expects from me, as I have been brought to the palace against my will?"

"As you know, you are the Crown Prince’s betrothed. Soon, I plan to announce your presence and return you to the public, and after that, we will arrange a wedding for the two of you to make you officially his wife."

"What?" Oriana exclaimed but quickly regained her composure. The King had stated it as if it were a simple matter. "Your Majesty, this cannot be done. You are aware of the situation between the Prince and me. I believe he is not willing to marry me either."

"You do not need to concern yourself with Prince’s consent. All you have to do is prepare for the wedding, as it is inevitable," the King replied. He paused for a moment, observing her displeased expression. "This is unchangeable. Regardless of your feelings, what I decide is final."

"What if I still refuse this arrangement?" she inquired, her gaze expectant.

"I believe you wish to ensure the protection of your grandfather and learn more about the rest of your family," the King stated. "This can only occur when you officially become a member of the Cromwell family. Matters concerning you and the Royal family are private, and only family members are permitted to be privy to them."

Oriana understood that without the King’s protection, her grandfather would once again be in danger, as Arlan might seize this opportunity for revenge.

The King’s tone began to change slightly as he continued, "It’s not as if you have any say in this. Everything has been decided in the past. Given your current situation, I’m sure you’re aware there’s no way out of it." His words contained a hint of mockery and a warning. He wanted to maintain his composure but also make her understand her reality, hoping she would comply.

’These cunning father and son,’ Oriana thought, her brow furrowing as she replied calmly, "Your Majesty, everything has happened so suddenly, and I am still adjusting to this situation. I would prefer to have some time to prepare myself for the arrangements you’ve mentioned."

Ailwin could clearly see her attempt to stall the wedding. He understood that she had no real choice but to listen to him.

He simply smiled and asked, "Is there anything else you wish to discuss?"

Oriana saw this as her opportunity to state her conditions. While she saw it as a way to take some control in this situation, the King used it as a chance to assess her character and intentions. What she asked for would reveal a lot about her - whether she was greedy, naive, or genuinely intelligent and deserving of standing beside his capable son.