The Devil's Betrothed novel Chapter 390

Chapter 390: Plan To Punish

Arlan extended his hand, a true gentleman’s gesture, after a respectful bow was exchanged between the two. Oriana placed her hand in his, and as he drew her closer, his hand settled gently at the small of her back, while her free hand rested upon his well-defined shoulder.

All eyes remained transfixed on the couple as they swayed to the music. Their movements were graceful and perfectly synchronized, almost as if they had danced together many times before, taking everyone by surprise. The Crown Prince’s exceptional dancing skills were well-known, but it was the Crown Princess who astounded the onlookers. The women who had voiced complaints earlier found themselves humbled as Oriana more than held her own.

While the audience was mesmerized by the couple’s dance, Arlan and Oriana were engaged in their own whispered conversation, seemingly indifferent to the world around them.

"I had warned you, but it appears you took my words lightly," Arlan whispered in her ear, his tone cold and laced with a veiled threat.

Oriana, undaunted, responded in kind, "Do you hold any significance in my life to warrant my attention? I do not heed advice from strangers."

A wicked smirk curled Arlan’s lips as he retorted, "So, you intend to stay and marry me? Do you truly believe you deserve it?"

She chuckled softly, her voice dripping with sarcasm, "Why would I abandon such luxury to wander in the forest again? I’m eagerly looking forward to relishing my life as your wife and mocking you every day about the achievement of being able to do so."

Arlan shifted his head back, his eyes locking with hers as he sported a sinister grin. "Then, as your husband, I anticipate fulfilling my duties in every possible way. I’m sure you understand my meaning."

His gaze turned predatory as he whispered, "I make no pretense of being a gentleman. Doesn’t matter the woman, as long as I satisfy my desires." His smirk widened, and he leaned in, his lips brushing her ear as he whispered, "Wouldn’t it be intriguing to punish in the most humiliating way?"

A shiver raced down Oriana’s spine as his words sent a cold wave of fear through her. She turned her face away and fixed him with a warning gaze. "You wouldn’t dare."

Oriana’s response only fueled his arrogance. "I most certainly would," he declared, his hand’s grip on her waist tightening in a suggestive manner, as if to underscore his point. He continued, "I’ve heard that your old man is on the brink of death, so I won’t spare him further suffering by granting him a swift death. That sword wound, piercing his body, must be causing him excruciating pain, even in his unconscious state."

"You’re a monster," she muttered through clenched teeth.

"Congratulations on your new found discovery about me," he chuckled darkly. "Imagine the exquisite torment he would endure, knowing that his beloved granddaughter is suffering in his stead. It would be the ultimate punishment, wouldn’t it? How about we pay a visit to his chamber tonight and let him witness what I’m capable of doing to you? In his chamber, in front of him, you and me...."

"You Jerk."

Arlan paid no heed to her anger and instead whispered in her ear. "I’ll take that as a yes."

Arlan paid no heed to her reaction as his carriage departed for the Thistle Palace. Upon reaching her chamber, Oriana hastily urged her servants to assist her in shedding the weighty dress and ornate jewelry. Donning a more comfortable attire, she hurried downstairs with a singular purpose: to find Commander Loyset.

"Your Highness, did you require my presence?" the knight bowed respectfully.

She nodded, her gaze unwavering. "Commander, I need you to bolster security tonight. I want no visitors, no matter who they may be." _{freewebnøvel.com}

The commander noticed the calm facade she presented, yet her eyes betrayed the hidden anxiety within. "Is there something troubling you, Your Highness?" he inquired.

"I simply wish to have a quiet evening and do not wish to be disturbed," she replied.

"You have our assurance, Your Highness. Your wishes will be honored," the commander reassured.

With a sense of relief, Oriana proceeded to visit her grandfather. Gazing upon him, the unsettling echo of Arlan’s menacing words resounded in her mind: ’I cannot allow that wretch to disrespect my grandfather. If he harbors ill intentions, I will not permit him to enter the mansion.’