Melody
The entire time through the meal. I would often notice the queen's gaze travelling from Aaron to Giovanni.
Sometimes adoringly and sometimes amazingly. Sometimes inquisitive and sometimes surprised. Her expression switched as she stared at my pups.
I don't know why she is staring at them like that, but her constant gaze at them tells me that there is more to this.
"I didn't know you had kids, Melody." The queen began as soon as the meal was done.
She led us to the game room. After all, we should have fun while we await the news of victory.
"It was ...."
"I didn't even know either," Sophia stated.
I didn't tell her about Giovanni and Aaron. I was hoping that I wouldn't have to because I didn't know what to say exactly.
Am I to tell her that I was raped and banished? Then I had kids for a man I didn't know. I don't even know his name. What am I to say to her?
"I wanted to tell you after your wedding, but there was no way I could." I lied.
"Oh," Sophia muttered. She believed me.
No matter what I say, she would believe me before anyone else.
"They are adorable." The queen said, her eyes again staring deeply at the pups. Her deep affectionate gaze was fixed on Aaron.
"Thank you, your grace."
"Have I met their father before?"
The queen's question stabbed my heart. Even though I haven't met him, then how could she?
"No, Your Majesty," I replied and looked away to hide my embarrassment.
"Oh, but...." She paused and got closer to them. "I feel like I have met them before."
"We have only just returned to the kingdom, your grace. You probably mistook them for someone else." I replied with a bow.
"What is their father's name?" She asked again.
This time I became sure that there was more to this. The questions and her gazes at the kids made me sure.
"I_ Uh_ Its_"
"Your Grace, why don't we go discuss the welcome celebration of the men." Mother ushered the queen towards the queen's chambers. "We should be ready before they return."
"Of course," Queen Rosanne, looked at Aaron once again before placing a kiss on his head. She did the same for Giovanni too, before leaving with my mother.
I heaved in relief as I watched them leave. I never think of the man who assaulted me because every time I do, it brings about a strange surge of fury in me.
I hate him for putting me through so much pain and agony, but as much as I loathe him, I'm also grateful for the gift I got. That man gave me the best gift I could ever get.
"Are you okay, Mel?" Sofia placed her hand on my shoulder. "You look pale."
I can imagine how I must look. The topic of my pups' father was a topic I never discussed with anyone and I do not intend to do that now. Especially not with the queen, the mother of my rejected mate, and certainly not with Sofia, his sister.
Even though I know that Sofia deserved to know what happened to me back then, the fear of losing my best friend prevents me from telling her.
She had already gone through a lot of taunts back when we were in school just because she was friends with me, a wolfless girl. And now, I cannot allow her to become an object of mockery once again just because of my misfortune.
I will never forgive myself if that brings a hitch to her relationship with Malcolm.
"I'm fine," I replied, forcing a smile.
"Feel at home everyone, the king has asked both families to stay together here in the palace for their safety." Queen Rosanne announced as she left the dining hall with my mother.
"Including you, Miranda."
I turned around as soon as I heard that name and behold, Miranda was also there. Turns out that her father, King of Kallary Kingdom, also decided to join the war. To show his undying loyalty to Mallory's kingdom.
"Of course, your grace," She curtsied.
I couldn't help but admire the woman. She's got grace and elegance.
"Momma, I want to take a tour of the palace!" Aaron's excited voice called me out of my daze.
"Alright honey, let's go."
I took his hand and moved to leave, but Miranda stopped before me. She put out her hands to stop us. Then she suddenly squatted to stare at my pups.
"What are you doing?" I asked, bringing them to my back.
"Why do you two look so much like....."
"Princess Miranda," Sofia called out, making the woman get up. She seemed to have just realized that Sofia was also in the room.
"Princess Sofia," Miranda smiled and hugged her. "I didn't congratulate you properly on your wedding."
"It's okay, Miranda. I should thank you for helping out." Sofia smiled appreciatively.
"Just like my mother said, Miranda, please feel at home," Sofia said, then she turned to me and my pups.
"You wanted a tour around, don't you?" She took Aaron's hand. "Let me show you around."
Aaron looked at me, silently asking for permission. I gave a nod and also tossed Giovanni towards them, but he refused to leave.
"You don't want a tour?" I squatted to his height.
"No, I don't." He shook his head. His eyes were staring suspiciously at Miranda.
"Alright dear, you can stay with me." I took his hand and walked away from Miranda.
I wouldn't let her create a scene before my son. I will settle my scores with her, but it will be just the two of us.
"Momma, who was that?"
I knew that Giovanni was asking about Miranda, so I immediately told him who she was.
"She wants to hurt you, momma, stay away from her."
Trust Giovanni to always look out for me. He senses danger even when it's a mile away from me.
"Alright dear," I smiled, brushing my hand through his hair.
Soon he was distracted by the sight of the throne. He was checking the place out. His interest seemed to be in the throne and the other seats.
"So, how did you do it?" Miranda was back at my side again.
"Do what?" I turned, making sure we were looking straight at each other.
"You are quite a player, Melody." Miranda clapped. "You managed to keep it from everyone."
I was getting confused by all she was saying. I didn't know what she was talking about.
"I must commend you though," She circled me as she spoke. "You are such a great player."
She grabbed my hand and pulled me close enough so she could whisper, "Derek is mine and you and your...."
I hit her hand off and stood akimbo. "Miranda, I let you get away with hurting me before because I didn't want to ruin Sofia's day, but try that with me again and I won't hesitate to retaliate."
"Really?" She scoffed and tossed her hair behind her ear. "You think you can fight me?" She laughed and before I could realize it, her paws were out and they scratched my face.
"Ouch!" I screamed and immediately put into practice all that I had learned.
However, I wasn't strong enough for her. Miranda dug her paws into my arms, making me fall to my knees.
Suddenly, out of nowhere, I heard a growl and I looked up to see Giovanni's eyes glowing dangerously as he launched at Miranda.
"Don't you dare hurt my Momma!"