The prince stares at the documents, scanning them closely. His eyes widening as he takes in the detailed plan and the shocking information Esmeray has presented. He feels a pang of guilt and anger at the revelation of his people's suffering, realizing that he has been blind to their struggles.
He looks up at Esmeray, seeing a newfound determination in her eyes. "You're right," he admits quietly. "I have been negligent in my duties as prince. I was too focused on my own pleasures to see the pain of my own people."
He crumples the paper in his fist, his jaw clenched tightly. "I will investigate this matter thoroughly," he says firmly.
Esmeray hasn't seen a single ounce of determination in his eyes like she sees now. Something about it makes her heart flutter along with other areas.
Xerxes notices the subtle change in Esmeray's demeanor, the way her eyes soften and her cheeks flush slightly. He feels a spark of attraction, drawn to the intelligence and passion that burns within her.
Without thinking, he reaches out and gently takes her hand, his thumb brushing over her knuckles. "Thank you," he says sincerely. "For bringing this to my attention and for caring about our people."
Esmeray's breath hitches at his touch, a shiver running down her spine. She looks up at him, their faces inches apart. The air between them crackles with tension, the earlier anger and frustration giving way to something else entirely.
Xerxes leans in closer, his lips hovering just above hers. "Perhaps we should... discuss this further," he murmurs, his voice low and husky."...how..." she asks, standing still afraid of losing what is going on.
"How?" He repeats softly, his breath ghosting over Esmeray's lips. "Like this..."
He closes the distance between them, pressing his lips to hers in a gentle kiss. It's a stark contrast to their usual heated exchanges, filled with a tenderness that catches Esmeray off guard.
His hand comes up to cup her cheek, his thumb tracing the curve of her jaw as he deepens the kiss. Esmeray melts into him, her hands gripping the front of his shirt as she responds eagerly.
When they finally break apart, both are breathing heavily. Xerxes rests his forehead against hers, his eyes searching hers. "Is that... how you wanted me to respond?" he asks quietly, a hint of vulnerability in his voice.
She has been caught off gaurd, she pulls away slightly but still in his reach, the moment she had with Zaiden vanishes for a moment. Just then a knock "Esmeray you better be dressed..either way I am coming in" Sari announces as she opens the door her smile fading as she sees the prince.
Esmeray steps away from him "Your majesty" Sari curtsies. Xerxes steps back, giving Esmeray some space as Sari enters the room. He clears his throat, trying to compose himself after the intimate moment they just shared.
"Princess Sari," he greets her with a nod. "I was just discussing some important matters with your sister."
Sari's gaze flickers between Esmeray and Xerxes, a knowing look in her eyes. "Of course, Your Majesty," she says smoothly. "I wouldn't dream of interrupting anything important....maybe something that could lead to the bed being undone " she adds.
"Sari" Esmeray shouts "Please forgive her, your majesty although of age she still acts like a child" Esmeray gives Sari a stern look as to say 'We will talk later about your manners'
The prince, understanding how the situation might have looked simply replies "It's alright, we are a married couple..Be glad she didn't walk in on us in a oddly position" Esmeray's face becomes red at his words.
Sari's mind creating a horrible image of her sister aned the Prince. 'Ew' she thinks to herself.
She turns to Esmeray, her expression softening. "I just wanted to check on you, dear sister. But it seems you're in good hands."
Esmeray forces a smile, grateful for Sari's understanding but also feeling guilty for the secret she's keeping from her sister. "Yes, I'm fine," she assures her. " The Prince and I were just... clearing the air."
Xerxes nods in agreement, his eyes never leaving Esmeray's face. "Indeed," he says quietly."Forgive me, Princess. I was told of your arrival. I assume the travel was safe" Xerxes adds
"Yes, thank you," Sari replies,. "The journey was uneventful. I'm grateful for your concern."
"The maids want to know whay you'd like for dinner sister "
"Have them make some stew, along with some salads. Your majesty will you join us?"
Xerxes hesitates for a moment, his eyes lingering on Esmeray. "I would be delighted to join you," he says finally, a small smile playing on his lips.
Sari nods, pleased with the invitation. "Excellent. I'll inform the kitchen staff immediately." She turns to leave, pausing at the door. "I'll see you both downstairs in an hour?"
Esmeray nods, and Sari exits the room, leaving the prince and princess alone once more. The tension between them is palpable, the air thick with unspoken words and lingering glances.
He steps close to her again "Shall we continue our discussion or would you like to know of this position I had mentioned earlier"