Chapter fourteen

Skylar felt the warm rays of the sunrise through her window as she slept. Suddenly, she jolted awake, sensing that the light had disappeared as if someone had closed the curtains. As she sat up, still groggy, she almost lost her balance, but an arm quickly wrapped around her waist, steadying her against a broad chest. The familiar scent overwhelmed her as she lifted her head and locked eyes with his piercing silver gaze.

"Your highness," she whispered, her voice trembling with fear as the sleepiness faded from her eyes. Glancing at the time, she realized it was already 7:02 am. How could she have overslept?

"Your highness, I'm so sorry," she stammered, the realization hitting her that she hadn't fulfilled her duties the day before. Would she face another punishment? She looked up at him, pleading with innocent, doe-like eyes. Ramiel's expression stiffened as his hands released her waist, causing her to grab onto his shirt, inadvertently pulling them both down onto her bed. Skylar was taken aback, feeling goosebumps all over as a cold sensation ran up her legs. She gazed at the man above her, his angelic appearance contrasting with the captivating yet intoxicating aura that hinted at a darker side.

Ramiel's fixed gaze on her left him completely flabbergasted. He let out a groan as he quickly stood up, distancing himself from her. He couldn't believe he had been swayed by such a petty act.

"Forgive my manners, your highness," she said, composing herself as she sat up.

"You're not from this world, are you?" he said, standing upright.

"No, your highness," she replied, rising to her feet.

"You have rules and regulations over there if sorry solved everything no need for cops I presume" he said and Skylar looked down innocently

"You do not resemble the vixen from earlier. This is just the beginning, Skylar. I hope your employment with me proves enjoyable, my frightened but charming vixen," he stated with a smirk before departing.

Skylar felt her breathing regulate without him present. Placing a hand on her chest, she wondered if she was losing her mind. Why was her heart racing so fast? Feeling weak in the legs, she quickly made her way to the bathroom to change for the day.

Emerging from the bathroom, Skylar looked stunning. Her black dress, made from a sleek satin material, hugged her curves perfectly. A faint shimmer caught the light, adding an air of sophistication to her appearance. With her hair neatly tied in a ponytail, she exuded poise and grace.

"Wait," she said, looking at herself in the mirror. "My outfit is ordinary, completely plain and unappealing. Prince Derek wouldn't even give me a second glance," she whispered to herself. She was about to change when she noticed the time and hurriedly left the room. Losing her balance, she stumbled upon seeing Ramiel at her door. Once again, he caught her by the waist, making her heart to beat rapidly she was definitely going crazy . He quickly let go, and she found herself on the ground.

"Ouch," she groaned in pain.

"That is your punishment," he coldly stated, looking at her with empty, unemotional eyes.

"Really?" Her eyes lit up with joy.

"Do you want me to change my mind?" he asked, quickly getting to his feet with energy.

"No, your highness." She smiled. "Thank you, for yesterday and today. Your kindness means a lot to me."

For a moment, Ramiel just stood there, gazing at her, before finally saying, "I hate that look on your face."

"Why? Do I look pretty?" she asked, flashing a wide smile. 

Ramiel blinked twice and smirked, thinking he must be going crazy.

 He continued walking towards the stairs, but then stopped.

"What's wrong? Does my appearance bother you? Of course, your girlfriend is much prettier than me," she trailed off, noticing Ramiel's intense gaze.

"My apologies, your highness for speaking so careless and causally . I am aware that walking down the stairs is my daily punishment, I still do it," she had no idea why she talks alot.

"I assume Derek is waiting for you," Ramiel stated, and she looked at him with terror in her eyes.

"As much as I hate to admit it, I find it amusing to see him frustrated," he added with a smirk, extending his palm. Skylar hesitantly placed her small hand in his large one.

In the blink of an eye, they arrived at the dining room. Ramiel released her hand, leaving her with a sense of emptiness. "Stay by my side, as always," he instructed as he walked ahead. Skylar found herself feeling flustered, confused about her own thoughts. He certainly did not mean for her to stick by his side in a romantic sense. What was wrong with her? Hurriedly, she moved to stand beside him, as they reached the dining table. A maid promptly pulled out a chair for Ramiel, and he sat down. Skylar stood beside him, bowing respectfully. Inadvertently, she raised her head and caught Prince Derek's gaze. Hastily, she averted her eyes.

"Good morning, father," Ramiel greeted.

"Good morning, son. How was your night?" The king inquired.

"I wished it was pleasant, how about you father?" he said with a pointed look at Skylar, making it clear that she was the reason for what he said earlier Skylar cast her eyes down, feeling a twinge of guilt. She had no one to blame but herself - she was given a simple task and her mouth gave her good punishment making her getting  into trouble.

"Fine,"he replied with a wry grin, turning to look at Ramiel.

"Ramiel," he heard a pretentious voice that he despised, and looked up to see Queen Diana.

"Good morning, Queen Diana," he responded coldly.

"Morning, my son," she said, trying to hide her awkwardness, but Ramiel ignored her.

Everyone ate their breakfast in silence. Ramiel noticed Derek glancing at Skylar from time to time. He knew that her talkative nature would be a part of her punishment.

"Where is Damien?" the king asked.

Skylar knew the king was referring to the handsome prince who had saved her the other day. She rarely saw him.

"I gave him a task, he hasn't returned yet," Ramiel covered for him.

"I see. Such a stubborn son," the king said with a smile. Skylar looked into his eyes and saw a mix of emotions. Despite his love for his children, she could sense a certain distance in the way he looked at Ramiel. It made her wish she had a family who would gaze at her with such sincerity, love, and warmth.

Ramiel set down his cutlery and glanced at Skylar. She looked at him with confusion, but then smiled, hoping she hadn't done anything wrong.

"Ramiel," the king called, and he turned his attention back to his father.

"Why don't you consider getting married?"