Getting spoiled in a woman dominating world Chapter 502: Sneaking out? [1]
Previously on Getting spoiled in a woman dominating world...
As the evening began to fade, the gentle evening breeze carried the delicate perfume of jasmine from the royal gardens below. Brandon and Rheanne found themselves standing upon the private balcony of their guest quarters.
Rheanne’s hand shot out, firmly grasping Brandon’s ear. "You... actually instructed him to construct churches? You scoundrel!"
A slight wince could be seen on Brandon’s face, yet a wry, sheepish smile played across his lips. "It is for the benefit of the people..."
Maintaining her hold on his ear, Rheanne tilted her head, her sky-blue eyes narrowing as she scrutinized him.
"For the people?"
Brandon raised his hands in a gesture of mock surrender. "My reasoning has already been explained to you... The populace requires something tangible to cling to when times turn dire."
"The people bestow upon you the title of 'Goddess' because you have repeatedly delivered them from peril. Erecting churches in your name... it provides them a sanctuary for prayer and a source of strength when the monstrous creatures emerge. It transforms their fear into unwavering hope."
Rheanne finally released his ear and crossed her arms, regarding him with a complex expression of frustration mingled with reluctant understanding.
Brandon lightly massaged his ear and spoke, "You are not compelled to ascend to the status of a remote deity upon a pedestal. These churches can serve as places where the populace remembers you as the valiant woman who championed their cause. That is the sole extent of my request."
Rheanne’s gaze shifted away for a fleeting moment, and the gentle wind rustled several strands of her white hair.
With a soft exhalation, he said, "My intention is not to coerce you into embracing something you detest. However, I deem it essential. For the people. And... for the future."
Rheanne turned back to face him. "I fail to comprehend why you are so determined to elevate me to the status of a goddess... I shall deliberate upon your request. It is, after all, the first time you have ever asked anything of me."
A smile illuminated his features as he extended his hand, taking hers. "Thank you. You understand why I cherish you."
Rheanne’s eyes widened momentarily at his declaration, but then she lightly, playfully pushed his hand away. "Scoundrel."
Brandon let out a soft chuckle and leaned against the balcony railing, standing beside her.
"My words are sincere, however. You have stood by my side through every battle. You shared your ether with me when I was devoid of any strength. You offered me a sanctuary, a place of rest, and that is precisely why I... hold you in such high regard."
"Two and a half years. It feels as though both an eternity and a mere moment have passed," she murmured, a smile gracing her lips.
"I never envisioned encountering another individual capable of wielding powers akin to mine. Yet, I am profoundly grateful that it was you... Kael."
The warmth of her words, spoken with such quiet tenderness, sent a pleasant sensation coursing through Brandon’s chest.
He met her steady gaze, the corners of his lips curling into a gentle smile.
"I too am grateful that it was you, Rheanne."
They remained in this tranquil state for some time on the balcony, the cool night air caressing their skin.
---
The night had settled into a profound quiet, with only the distant, melancholic hoot of an owl and the gentle susurrus of leaves disturbing the stillness.
Brandon descended from the balcony, landing softly within the room.
Amelia was in the process of changing her attire. She had just removed her day dress and was reaching for her nightgown when the distinct sound of an arrival on the balcony caused her to freeze in place.
She turned abruptly, her eyes widening in sheer astonishment upon beholding Brandon’s presence.
Visibly startled, she hastily crossed her arms over her chest, attempting to shield herself as effectively as possible.
A deep blush spread across her cheeks, and a small, embarrassed gasp escaped her lips.
Brandon’s gaze briefly flickered towards her before he swiftly averted his eyes, turning his head toward the wall.
"I-I offer my sincerest apologies. I had no intention of intruding in such a manner."
Amelia snatched the nightgown from the nearby chair and swiftly pulled it over her head, the fabric settling loosely around her form.
Her face remained flushed as she adjusted the gown, ensuring complete coverage.
"You... you ought to knock next time. Or at the very least, announce your presence before abruptly landing on someone's balcony."
Brandon maintained his focus on the opposite wall, an awkward motion of rubbing the back of his neck betraying his discomfort.
"Indeed... my apologies for that oversight."
Amelia finished adjusting her nightgown and exhaled a shaky breath. "What brings you here at this late hour?" she inquired, her attempt at sternness undermined by a slight waver in her voice.
Brandon finally turned his head back towards her. "I merely desired a brief conversation with you and... perhaps we could slip out?"
Upon hearing his suggestion, Amelia’s eyes widened in surprise. "A-Absolutely, allow me to change my dress."
She reached into the closet, selecting a simple dress accompanied by a hooded cloak, garments that would aid her in blending seamlessly with the night.
Turning back to him, she clutched the clothes to her chest. "I shall be swift."
Then, she quickly retreated into the small changing area adjoining her chamber, drawing the curtain closed behind her.
A few moments later, she emerged, a broad smile gracing her lips. "Shall we depart?"
Brandon nodded and gestured towards the balcony. "After you, Princess. However, endeavor to refrain from climbing too boisterously this time."
With a shy giggle, Amelia approached the balcony and carefully pulled back the shutters.
She swung a leg over the railing, Brandon following closely, ensuring her footing was secure on the narrow ledge before they commenced their descent together.
The castle walls were a familiar path for Amelia, and she led them through the guards' blind spots.
They reached the ground undetected, melting into the shadows of the outer gardens.
---
Hand in hand, Brandon and Amelia navigated the labyrinthine stone pathways of the palace gardens, making their way towards the capital.
As the town came into view, the streets were already alive with merriment and anticipation.
The air vibrated with traditional music, and vibrant lanterns adorned every lamppost, bathing the cobblestone roads in a warm, celebratory light.
Continuing their stroll, a troupe of performers took their place in the town square, preparing to showcase a traditional dance.
Brandon and Amelia discovered a tranquil spot beside a small bridge, leaning against the wooden balustrade to observe the dancers.
Amelia let out a contented sigh, her arms resting on the railing. "When I was little, I used to dream of attending celebrations like these. Now, I can finally be a part of them."
Brandon turned to her, a gentle smile gracing his lips. "Then I am delighted to be here with you."
Before she could reply, a recognizable voice called out, "Amelia? You're here. And... oh? You've brought a companion?"
A woman of middle age approached them, and Amelia's face lit up. "Miss Helen. Yes, this is..."
She paused, casting a glance at Brandon, uncertain how to introduce him.
Brandon offered a simple smile and a nod. "A friend."
Helen acknowledged this with a nod. "Are you still planning to join us at the restaurant after this? We're a little short-staffed tonight, and I could certainly use some assistance."
Amelia looked toward Brandon with a hint of hesitation, but he merely smiled. "I'll help as well."
"You?" Helen expressed genuine surprise.
Meeting Helen's gaze, Amelia confirmed, "Yes, he will be helping too."
---
As they followed Helen to the restaurant, Amelia confided in a whisper, "Because I rarely venture out, many people are unaware that I am the princess of this realm."
"When I discreetly leave the palace sometimes, I help out at Miss Helen's establishment... she is aware of my true identity."
Brandon found this amusing. "I see..."
The restaurant itself was charming, nestled snugly between two larger structures.
A multitude of patrons filled the tables, their conversations and laughter mingling as the staff bustled back and forth, serving meals and taking orders.
The tantalizing aroma of seared meat and freshly baked bread wafted through the air, eliciting a slight rumble from Brandon's stomach.
With a playful smile, Amelia presented him with an apron. "Here, put this on."
With a soft exhalation, he slipped the apron over his attire and followed her into the kitchen, where Miss Helen promptly assigned them their duties.
Amelia was tasked with managing orders, while Brandon found himself carrying steaming platters to the waiting patrons.
It was, to put it mildly, a whirlwind.
Brandon navigated the crowded dining area, expertly balancing a tray laden with sizzling meat and bowls of soup.
The din of diners' chatter filled the space, harmonizing with the sizzle of food being prepared behind the kitchen doors.
Initially, it felt somewhat awkward... but soon, he began to find a certain enjoyment in the novel experience.
"Here you are," he announced, placing a plate of perfectly roasted chicken before a family eagerly anticipating their meal.
An elderly gentleman at the table observed him with curiosity. "Young man, you don't exactly look like a standard employee. Is this your first time doing this?"
Brandon offered a faint smile. "Yes."
"Well, you're handling it quite well, I must say," the man remarked with a chuckle, raising his teacup.
Brandon inclined his head with a smile before moving on to the subsequent table.
The evening progressed, the two of them working in tandem, Amelia efficiently taking down orders while Brandon diligently served the dishes.