The Devil's Betrothed novel Chapter 402

Chapter 402: Blackmailing A Son

"I am absolutely thrilled for my brother’s wedding," Lenard exclaimed with infectious cheer, casting a teasing glance at his unwilling sibling. "I’ve been biding my time just for this day, to witness my brother in his wedding attire."

Arlan felt a surge of anger and frustration, longing to deliver a punch to his brother’s face. However, he had to maintain his composure, as the volatile beast within him had already been stirred by the scent emanating from Oriana. She was the one bleeding, yet he found himself growing weaker, a sensation he loathed.

Lenard directed his attention to Oriana, offering a warm and direct greeting, "Sister-in-law, I’m elated to have you here, ensuring my brother won’t remain single forever. I eagerly anticipate the arrival of my little nieces and nephews." He looked at his mother, "Mother, you will be having handful of grandchildren’s."

Queen Julien looked at her son affectionately, "I would be glad to have as many as them from both of my sons."

Oriana was momentarily taken aback by Lenard’s straightforward words, but she swiftly composed herself, concealing her surprise behind a smile beneath her veil. Her inner thoughts, however, were far from conventional: ’Kids with your brother? What a joke! I cherish my body a lot and it won’t sure give birth to these rascals’ children.’

Oriana remained silent, playing the role of a demure young woman. She responded, "Prince Lenard, I anticipate that I’ll see Princess Miera with beautiful children before that."

Prince Lenard sported a wide grin. "We’re certainly working on it, but don’t let you two slack off," he advised, directing his gaze at Arlan. "I expect better from you brother. You’ve excelled in everything, so creating a few children shouldn’t be too challenging for you."

"Shut up," Arlan retorted, his glare aimed at Lenard. He then turned his attention to his father, stating impatiently, "If there’s nothing else, I’ll take my leave."

His father began, "About your wedding..."

Arlan interrupted, "Do as you see fit, Father." He rose from his seat, unable to tolerate his present circumstances any longer. He couldn’t muster the strength to argue against the impending wedding. For now, his only option was to distance himself from Oriana.

"Very well. Since you’ve accepted my decision, there’s nothing to be concerned about," the King stated, wearing a pleasant smile. "Julien will take care of all the arrangements. You two only need to appear for the wedding. It will be held in four weeks. The invitations would be dispatched soon."

Arlan gazed at his father in disbelief. Accepted his decision? Wasn’t he essentially coerced into agreement? Did he even possess another viable option? His father was indeed shrewd.

As Arlan bowed and prepared to depart, he heard his father’s voice again, "While you’re here, take Oriana to visit the beautiful lake in Karlin."

Arlan sighed inwardly, responding with a cold tone, "I have work to attend to. Commander Loyset can accompany her."

The King insisted, "She is going to be your wife, and it’s your responsibility to acquaint her with this city. It will provide you both with the opportunity to spend more time together and better understand one another. Moreover, there are rumors circulating that the Crown Prince is indifferent to his betrothed and unwilling to marry her. Your outing with her will help dispel these rumors."

Arlan raised an eyebrow and countered, "Are those truly rumors? It seems like an established fact to me, and there’s no need to eliminate them."

The King frowned at his son, his expression firm. "I cannot permit anyone to disrespect the Crown Princess of this kingdom. Whether you desire it or not, you must accompany her right now."

"Yes, Your Majesty," the servant replied promptly. _{freeweɓnovel.cøm}

"Alright, I’ll take her out right now," Arlan acquiesced, addressing Oriana with a stern look, "Do not keep me waiting." With that, he exited the drawing room.

Oriana, who had observed the exchange between father and son like everyone else in the room, found herself uncertain about how to react to it. While she took some satisfaction in witnessing Arlan’s helplessness in front of his father, she had no desire to accompany him.

"You can go with him," the King advised, and Oriana could only nod in acknowledgment. She then curtsied to the King before leaving the drawing room, accompanied by Commander Loyset.

Once Arlan and Oriana had left, Lenard couldn’t help but laugh. "Father, you certainly know how to apply pressure to your sons."

The King raised an eyebrow. "Would you like me to try it on you as well?"

Lenard chuckled, his tone lighthearted, "Father, there’s no need. I’m already married and in the process of giving you grandchildren. I’m an exemplary son, and there’s nothing to complain about." He wore a confident smile as he self-boasted. "It was rather amusing to see my brother so vexed."

Queen Julien interjected, "Stop finding amusement in your brother’s challenges." She then looked at her worried husband, "He’ll be fine once he’s married and fully accepts her. He just needs to put the past behind him. Don’t fret too much."

The King could only offer a silent nod, his thoughts concealed beneath a weary sigh.