The Devil's Betrothed novel Chapter 406

Chapter 406: Mocking The Crown Princess

Oriana’s attention shifted behind Arthur as she observed a group of people approaching them. Most of the group consisted of women, trailed by knights.

’It appears to be Lord Clarence’s family,’ she surmised, watching them draw closer.

"Greetings, Your Highness," echoed the salutations as everyone acknowledged the prince. He stood there, wearing his customary cold demeanor, seemingly indifferent to the younger generation. Instead, he directed his attention to Arthur’s grandmother and mother, offering a polite nod.

"I regret not being able to attend your engagement, as this old woman now falls ill frequently," the elderly woman spoke, her smile warm and pleasant. She turned her gaze toward Oriana with the same amiable expression. "And here we have our Crown Princess."

Oriana found the elderly woman to be gentle and amiable, and she had no desire to act recklessly. She respectfully offered a bow, unsure of how to address this venerable lady.

"Your Highness, this is my grandmother, and that’s my mother. The others you see are young ones from my family," Arthur explained. He then glanced at a lovely young girl standing beside his grandmother, assisting the elderly lady. "This is my sister, Evie, and the rest are my cousins."

Oriana observed the beautiful young girl, who bore a striking resemblance to her grandmother, and heard her greet her with, "Greetings, Your Highness."

In return, Oriana offered a nod.

Evie’s gaze fixed on Arlan as she remarked, "Your Highness, it’s been quite a while since we’ve met." Her eyes revealed her admiration for the handsome man. "How have you been?"

"I am well," he replied at last, and his voice carried across for everyone to hear.

Arthur interjected, cautioning, "Don’t trouble him. You know he won’t utter more than a few words."

Evie offered a gentle smile and commented, "At least he spoke."

On the other hand Oriana felt somewhat tired facing so many nobles eager to engage with her. All she truly desired was to conclude the interaction swiftly and depart.

"Enjoy yourselves, young ones. I’ll retire to the gazebo and relish some tranquil time by the lake," the elderly lady announced. Arthur’s mother accompanied her and provided support as they made their way to the gazebo. However, the elderly lady paused and fixed her gaze on Oriana.

"You’re Philip’s granddaughter, I’m certain you’ll make an excellent queen," the elderly woman declared warmly.

Arlan remained silent and unreactive. He had to respect the elderly lady’s discretion. His mind was somewhere else as he was being affected by Oriana’s presence and scent. As the elder lady left, he began to turn to leave, Arthur halted him.

"Where are you off to? My grandmother just suggested that you enjoy the company of the young ones. Are you going to leave the Crown Princess on her own with us?"

"Your Highness, you appear to be injured," one of Arthur’s cousins pointed out, directing everyone’s attention to Arlan’s slightly bloody lips.