The Tyrant's Pet



"Your Majesty, I've ordered the knights to investigate if there were other suspicious movements when the young lady went missing."

Samael glanced at Gustav, who went inside the guest chamber in the Queen's palace to make his post report. 

"There is no need, but I appreciate it," said Samael with a smile, turning his head to the person sitting across where he stood. "Your Majesty, do not worry too much. The most important thing is that we found Sunny, and she's not harmed."

Aries sat beside the bed, holding Sunny's little hands. "Gustav, do the investigation at your discretion."

"Yes, Your Majesty." Gustav lowered his head. "I will excuse myself first."

Samael kept his short smile, nodding approvingly at Gustav. With that being said, Gustav left Aries and Samael inside the chambers. Samael followed Gustav's figure with his eyes until he heard the faint click of the door and then set his attention back to Sunny. 

"There was a saying that says; mother knows best. But I believe that isn't limited to mothers, but to parents as well," he said, huffing quietly. "Stop pretending, Sunny. I've been alive even before your mother was born. It'll take you a millennium before you have a chance of deceiving me."

Aries's brows rose, shifting her attention to Samael. As she locked eyes with him, an adorable giggle caressed her ears while Samael's face softened. 

"I didn't say anything earlier since we're outside," he said, shaking his head before setting his eyes back to Aries. "I understand you want secrecy, Your Majesty. However, do not forget we are in the boat in the middle of a vast ocean. Working together to stay afloat is something we should be doing."

"Papa, Grandmama has a good reason for not telling you what happened." Sunny sat up, smiling. "It's not like Grandmama is the only person who was keeping a secret. Grandpa as well — you too! Does that mean we're going to sink? Good thing I'm a good swimmer."

"Sunny…"

"I think you already know the reason I can't open my mouth anytime I please," Aries spoke, stealing Samael's attention. "But I never forget who my allies are and not Samael."

Silence descended upon them as Aries and Samael stared at each other without any intention of looking away. Meanwhile, Sunny darted her eyes between the two, blinking innocently. 

"Very well." After another minute, Samael cleared his throat. "It's not like I need to know the details. All I'm saying is do not carry all the burden on your own. You are not alone this time. Abel might be somewhere doing all the crazy things he always does, but we are all here to support you."

"I know, and I appreciate that. You always have my gratitude — for Lilou, as well." 

"You don't have to thank me or anyone, Your Majesty. Suppose there was anyone who had to thank who was us, and not you. After all, you are in this predicament because of us — because we carry the blood of the Grimsbanne." Samael sported a short smile. "You were simply dragged into this silent chaos because you loved someone who carried this cursed blood."

Aries assessed the faint glow in his eyes, making her swallow down the tension in her throat. "Are you sorry for me or for your wife and children?"

"Both." Samael chuckled bitterly. "You are also a part of the family, are you not?"

Surprise immediately dominated Aries's countenance after hearing his last remarks, making Samael chuckle at her reaction. 

"What's with that look, Aries?" he laughed. "Don't tell me after having a party with us, you still consider us as strangers?"

"Grandmama, you're hurting my feelings." Sunny pouted, watching Aries look back at her. 

"No, that's not it." Aries forced a subtle smile, planting her hand on top of Sunny's head. She ruffled it gently and then lifted her head back to Samael. "That is something I didn't expect to hear, but I deeply appreciate it."

"As long as you understand what being in the same boat means, I feel reassured."

This time, the subtle smile on Aries's face stretched wider as her eyes shone with clarity. For the past weeks, Aries had been clinging to the ghost of the past. She knew Miguel wasn't Davien, but she had been making up excuses to see him or have a talk with him. 

Aries deluded herself that she was simply playing along with her enemy's plans, but there was a part of her that wanted to make up with Davien through Miguel. No matter how she denied it, Aries could never hide it. 

Wasn't that the reason she still had no progress until now?

"Your visit is very much appreciated, Samael." Aries broke the silence while keeping her beautiful smile. "Please tell Lilou to expect an invitation from the royal palace soon."

"I'll make sure to tell her." Samael lowered his head politely and then straightened his back. "She would be elated to hear a word from Your Majesty."

"I heard she doesn't like tea parties."

"She hates social gatherings, but it's a different case if it's a time for someone she is very fond of. My wife adores Your Majesty just as much you adored her. Therefore, I am certain she would gladly be in your presence."

"No need to be so formal." Aries chuckled."

"You are still the queen, and I am your subject. Anyway, I always took up too much of your time. I am honored to be in your grace." Samael performed a quick neck bow again. "Sunny, bid Her Majesty farewell."

"Grandmama, can I come with my mother once she visits you?" asked Sunny, blinking adorably as she waited for an answer.

"Of course." Aries nodded. "Let's play again soon, alright?"

"Yes~!" Sunny grinned from ear to ear while her round cheeks turned pinkish. 

Seeing how excited little Sunny was, Aries chuckled. She stretched her arm and ruffled the little girl's hair. Aries's eyes softened, casting Samael a look, only to receive a smile from him.