Droit du Seigneur: His Lordship's Right of the First Night - Chapter 49
Though he didn’t dare to imagine becoming her husband, he wondered if there was a way to keep her with him. Despite telling himself repeatedly that it was wrong to think this way about a woman who’s already engaged to be married, he realized with a painful clarity the meaning of the word ‘irresistible’.
“If my family weren’t by my side, I wouldn’t have been able to endure. That person is the only one I want to protect, even if it means sacrificing everything. My love for…”
The biggest problem was that Louise loved her husband deeply, as she had recently confirmed herself. Even if he were to force her to stay by his side, it would only lead to unhappiness for everyone. Richard knew better than anyone that you can’t force someone to love you, a lesson he learned from observing his parents.
If only she would accept him, he would gladly give up his status and wealth. But she didn’t even look at him now, an imperial and a lord, so why would she come to him if he had nothing?
Despite everything, what mattered most was Louise’s heart. Richard recalled her saying that she had never left her hometown.
When exposed to a new environment, unexpected changes in feelings can occur. If she leaves this place, where the man she loves is, and spends time alone with him in the unfamiliar capital, perhaps her feelings might change.
Though their relationship was currently just physical, he hoped that this trip would change that. He was anxious inside, even though he pretended to be calm and assertive about taking her with him, fearing she might get scared and try to leave early.
Once they reached the capital, he planned to find any excuse to extend their stay. But, even if the trip exceeded two months, would she refuse to stay longer, citing their agreement?
As Richard was lost in thought, Louise spoke cautiously.
“My lord, I’m a commoner… Wouldn’t it be inappropriate for me to attend such an event? I might cause you embarrassment.”
“Though the party is hosted by the imperial family, it actually takes place at Vellus Palace nearby. It’s a small, beautiful palace built by the previous emperor for the empress’s convalescence. Women particularly favor it, so I think you might like it too.”
“I see…”
“And it’s not just nobles who attend. Representatives from commoners are also invited to symbolize unity among the classes during the founding anniversary celebrations. There’s no need to reveal your status.”
“But I don’t know how to dance…”
“You can learn. I’ll teach you.”
“Alright.”
Louise couldn’t argue further and nodded. She still felt uneasy about attending such an event, but she was happy not to part ways with him immediately. She also felt a subtle excitement about seeing the capital for the first time. She kept her eyes lowered, afraid her joy would show too much.
“The capital is quite different from here. You’ll find it interesting. There’s the largest art gallery in the empire near the square. If we have time, we could visit together.”
“Yes, I’d love that!”
She was glad to have the opportunity to create final memories with him. When they returned from this trip, the two months would be over. She would part ways with him with a smile, holding on to the good memories.
Louise tried to lighten her heart by thinking this way. Noticing the large pile of documents on the desk, she figured he was almost done with his work and decided to lie down for bed.
“Then good night, my lord.”
“Louise.”
Just as she was about to fall asleep after saying goodnight,
“We need to finish our work before sleeping.”
“Pardon? I thought you were done with… Nngh!”
He laid on top of her, kissing her deeply without giving her a chance to respond. His warm breath, now familiar, mingled with hers through her parted lips. His firm knee slid between her tightly closed legs.
Ah…
His large hand slipped under her clothes, kneading her soft skin, and soon gently teased her small, hardened nxxple. His skilled touch, knowing exactly how to make her feel good, made her mind melt like chocolate.
“You said it hurt when touched here during your period. Is it okay now?”
“Yes, it’s fine.”
“How does it feel now?”
“Good… really good…”
“Good?”
Richard smiled slightly, pleased with her response. How good? He leaned closer, gently biting her soft earlobe and kissing down her neck. The sweet, deepening kisses spread through the night.
* * *
The first carriage trip was more enjoyable than expected.
“Is the carriage uncomfortable?”
“No, it’s very comfortable.”
“In about an hour, we will pass through a small commercial town. Let’s have lunch there.”
“Yes, my lord.”
Though the schedule was tight, Richard took time to stop by various towns along the way, knowing it was Louise’s first time leaving Evron. Visiting cities, each with its unique characteristics, was very interesting. Watching the changing scenery through the carriage window also offered a fresh enjoyment.
Yes, during this trip, I should set aside my worries and just enjoy myself.
Louise tried to keep her mind from darkening by thinking this way.
The carriage slowed as it entered a quiet forest path, enjoying the cool breeze. Louise, sitting alone in the carriage, opened the window and peeked outside. Someone approached on horseback.
“Miss Riddel, are you feeling sick?”
“Oh, Sir Karmon.”
Karmon was an apprentice of Sir Tobias, the senior knight left by the Emperor to oversee her. Louise only knew that he was staying to help her while his master performed a secret mission assigned by the Emperor.
