Ch. 381..385: The Vampire Prince's Blindfolded Bride Chapter 381-385

Chapter 381: The Perfect Woman 2

"Lord Griffin, this dress is already—" the shop owner began, but Griffin cut him off with determination.

"We need this dress. This lady here is willing to pay double for it," Griffin stated firmly. "And Miss Koopman would do well not to anger the Princess. This lady is no ordinary person; she is specially appointed in Princess Alora’s service. So, you need to show her the respect she deserves," Griffin said, his tone leaving no room for argument. The young lady’s composure faltered, and she looked visibly disturbed by the revelation.

"Fine. I don’t need it," she snapped, turning on her heel and storming out of the shop, her attendant following closely behind.

Griffin turned his attention to Selvina, who was visibly startled by the turn of events. As he moved closer, Selvina said, "Please, just charge me the original price you mentioned earlier."

The shop owner, clearly dismayed by the loss of a wealthy customer but keen not to anger Griffin, instructed his employee to pack the dress and accept the original payment. Once Selvina completed the transaction, she carefully carried the dress while Griffin walked alongside her.

Stopping outside the shop, Selvina turned to Griffin with a grateful smile. "Thank you for your help, Lord Griffin. I would have failed to buy it if you hadn’t intervened."

Griffin returned her smile warmly. "It was my pleasure. Is the dress for you? I think it would look stunning on you for a special occasion."

Selvina shook her head gently. "This dress is for Princess Alora. She has done so much for me, and I wanted to buy a small gift as a token of my appreciation," she explained.

"Oh, I see. That’s a wonderful gesture," Griffin said, momentarily envisioning how beautiful Selvina would look in the dress. "Why don’t you buy something for yourself as well?"

Selvina smiled politely. "For myself? I have plenty of dresses already. Maybe next time," she said, though it was not entirely truthful. She had spent all her money on the dress for Alora and couldn’t afford even a less expensive one for herself.

"I should be going now. Please, enjoy the rest of the festival," Selvina said, preparing to leave.

Griffin stepped beside her, his expression thoughtful. "I don’t have anyone familiar here to enjoy the festival with. How about we keep each other company then?" he suggested, offering her a friendly and genuine smile.

Selvina turned her head slightly to look at Griffin, sensing that his approach was deliberate rather than incidental. "My Lord," she said gently but firmly, "it would be inappropriate for me to walk around with you. I’m sorry, but I can’t accept your company." With that, she offered a small, respectful bow and continued on her way.

Griffin watched her retreat with a sigh, murmuring to himself, "She’s tough to please." He was aware of Selvina’s challenging past, a heart-wrenching history that likely influenced her reluctance to accept his offer. Despite this, he was determined not to give up and followed her closely, ensuring she remained safe.

When Selvina reached a river bridge, she suddenly came to a halt. Griffin, now standing near a pillar of the bridge, observed her. She held a piece of sweet candy in her hand and stared intently at the water’s surface. Her expression was one of deep contemplation, as if she were lost in a melancholic memory.

"What could she be thinking about? Is she reflecting on the past?" Griffin murmured to himself, puzzled by her distant demeanor.

Just then, Odin’s voice cut through his thoughts. "What are you staring at? That maid—she’s in Princess Alora’s service, isn’t she?" Odin asked, noting Selvina with a curious look.

Griffin turned to face Odin, his eyebrows raised in surprise. "What are you doing here?" he asked, intrigued by Odin’s sudden appearance.

Odin shrugged nonchalantly. "Just here to buy something," he replied, offering no further explanation.

Odin’s frown deepened. "Don’t tell me you have a fancy for a maid," he remarked, a hint of disapproval in his tone.

Griffin looked at Odin with a slight edge. "What’s the problem with that?" he countered. "I think Selvina is the perfect woman for me."

Odin shook his head, his expression reflecting his old-fashioned views. "There are others who might be more perfect than her. You know, as a noble vampire, it’s customary to marry within the same status," he said, his voice tinged with a sense of tradition.

Griffin shrugged, undeterred. "Hmm, I’m not of noble blood. Selvina doesn’t make mistakes, and that’s why she stands out," he replied, defending his admiration for Selvina.

Odin sighed but offered a small nod of acknowledgment. "Yes, but you do have a good status. Well, she is well-behaved. I haven’t heard any complaints about her," he conceded, though his tone still carried the weight of his traditional beliefs.

"Selvina doesn’t want to give me a chance. I asked her out, but she refused," Griffin confided.

Odin looked puzzled. "Why would she refuse?" he asked, clearly confused.

Griffin sighed, preparing to share a difficult truth. "Because of her past," he explained.

Odin’s curiosity deepened. "What past? Did a vampire do something to her?"

Griffin shook his head. "No. It was a human from a noble family who betrayed her. He sent someone to kill her when she was pregnant with his child. That’s why Selvina is reluctant to accept my interest since she thinks my status isn’t as equal as hers."

Odin was taken aback, clearly startled by the revelation. "I had no idea Selvina went through such harsh treatment. Some humans can be truly vile," he commented with a mix of shock and disgust. "But how do you know all this? I’m sure Selvina never told you."

Griffin’s expression grew somber. "It’s a long story, Odin. It’s not something she would readily discuse with anyone," he replied.

"How are you going to win her back?" Odin asked.

"Maybe I have to take one step a day," Griffin answered. "Eventually she will see me," he added with a confident tone.

 

Chapter 382: The Perfect Woman 3

Under the night sky, illuminated by the warm glow of lanterns, the vampire town buzzed with life as the festivities reached their peak.

Music filled the air, and couples twirled gracefully across the cobblestone streets, their laughter intermingling with the lively melody.

Selvina stood at the edge of the crowd, her eyes absorbing the vibrant scene. The joyous atmosphere only heightened her sense of solitude, as almost everyone around her was paired off. A pang of loneliness tugged at her heart, making her feel oddly out of place.

"I think it’s time to head back. I’ve been out since noon," she murmured softly to herself, turning to slip away from the festivities.

But as she turned, she nearly collided with someone who had appeared before her as if out of thin air.

Startled, Selvina’s heart skipped a beat as she looked up to see Griffin standing there, his presence as imposing as ever.

Instinctively, she lowered her gaze, unsure of how to react. She hesitated, trying to step past him, but Griffin’s hand shot out, gently catching her wrist and stopping her in her tracks.

Their eyes locked, and the air between them thickened with unspoken tension. "I want to hear the answer from you, not from Princess Alora," Griffin said, his voice low and unwavering.

Selvina’s eyes widened in surprise, confusion flickering across her delicate features. "I—I thought I had made myself clear," she stammered, attempting to pull her hand free. But Griffin’s grip, though gentle, was firm, refusing to let her go.

He gazed at her intently, his expression unreadable. "I’ve always wanted to be a part of this dance," Griffin admitted, his tone softening slightly. "Sadly, I couldn’t find a partner. So why don’t you be my partner for this dance?" He paused before continuing, his eyes never leaving hers. "You can give me your answer then, Selvina."

Selvina found herself in a tight spot. Griffin’s persistence was unexpected, and it left her feeling flustered. In her eyes, he was a man of high status, someone far removed from her own world, whom she didn’t want to get involved with.

Yet, it seemed he wasn’t willing to let her slip away without hearing her answer directly. His offer to dance was more than just a request—it was a way for her to confront what she had been avoiding.

"Sure, My Lord," Selvina agreed.

Griffin’s lips curved into a smile, one that held both warmth and a hint of satisfaction. He gently pulled her closer, leading her onto the cobblestone street where the other couples danced.

As they began to dance, Selvina could feel the intensity of Griffin’s gaze on her, searching for the truth she had been trying to conceal. She could feel her heart pounding in an unusual rhythm, almost as if it were trying to escape the confines of her chest.

Their opposite hands touched briefly as they moved in sync, only to retreat and come close again. The fleeting contact sent a shiver down Selvina’s spine, heightening her awareness of Griffin’s presence.

He held her gently, his grip firm but not overpowering, and as he pulled her closer, the distance between them disappeared.

"So, why did you refuse to go out with me, Selvina?" Griffin asked, his voice low but laced with an undercurrent of frustration. His eyes bore into hers, demanding an answer.

"Princess Alora must have told—" Selvina began.

But Griffin cut her off. "I want to hear it from you," he insisted with a stern tone.

Selvina hesitated for a moment, realizing that Griffin’s anger stemmed from her avoidance of a direct answer. There was no escaping it now. She took a deep breath, forcing herself to meet his piercing gaze.

"I don’t want to marry someone of higher status than me," she admitted, her voice steady despite the turmoil inside. "I’m a servant to the princess, and I intend to be with someone who is like me in work, at the very least."

"I’m also a servant to Prince Magnus," Griffin responded, his tone was both firm and gentle.

Selvina looked at him, bewilderment evident in her eyes. "My Lord, you aren’t," she countered, a tiny smile beginning to form on her lips, though confusion lingered. To her, the idea seemed almost absurd.

Griffin’s gaze remained steady as he replied, "I carry out all the tasks I’m asked to. Isn’t that what a servant does?"

"But that’s... different," Selvina stammered, her eyes lowering as she blinked rapidly, trying to process his words. The thought of comparing him to a servant felt wrong, and yet, there was a sincerity in his tone that she couldn’t ignore.

Griffin’s next words caught her completely off guard. "I have struggled to reach where I am today. Do you think I got this high status all because of Prince Magnus?"

Selvina’s eyes widened as she met his gaze again. There was something in his expression that made her heart ache—a mix of pride and pain that spoke of battles fought and won, but not without scars. Yet despite this heavy conversation, their dance continued, the rhythm of the music guiding their movements as if nothing else mattered.

"I am sure you have worked hard," Selvina replied softly, her voice filled with sincerity. "I didn’t mean to hurt you," she added, her previous confidence now replaced with a gentle apology.

Griffin’s expression softened, but there was still a lingering sadness in his eyes. "The Vampire Council never treated vampires like you and me as equals," he said, his voice tinged with a quiet bitterness. "You know well how the hierarchy works. I’ve had to work hard, endure humiliation from the higher-ups, and prove my worth time and again. So, don’t call me someone of higher status. I am as equal as you."

Selvina felt a pang of guilt as she realized the depth of his struggles, something she had never truly considered. But now, as he shared a part of himself that few others likely knew, she saw him in a new light.

Chapter 383: The Perfect Woman 4

"I’m sorry," she whispered, her voice barely audible over the music. "I never knew..."

"You need not apologize," Griffin interjected softly, cutting off her words before they could fully form. His voice held a calm reassurance, and he accompanied it with a gentle smile that seemed to warm the cool night air around them. "I’m aware of your past, Selvina, and I understand why you’re reluctant. But," he paused, his gaze searching hers with a quiet intensity, "you can give yourself a chance to trust me. I promise, I won’t break that trust."

As their dance gradually slowed, they both came to a stop. The music continued around them, the festive atmosphere of the town seemingly distant now, as if they were in a world of their own.

Selvina stood frozen, her thoughts a tangled mess of emotions. She searched for words, but nothing came out. All she could do was stare at him, her mind racing with uncertainty and confusion.

Griffin held her gaze, his expression patient and understanding. "You don’t have to decide now," he continued gently, recognizing the turmoil in her eyes. "Think about my proposal, Selvina. I can wait for you."

The sincerity in his voice was undeniable, and it only made Selvina’s heart beat faster, the weight of his words settling heavily in her chest. She had been running from this moment, from the possibility of something more with him, for reasons rooted in fear and doubt. But now, standing before him, she realized that perhaps she had been too hasty in her judgments.

Griffin broke the silence, his eyes flicking away from hers as he glanced around at the lively scene that had carried on without them. The night was growing late, and the town’s festivities showed no sign of winding down, but he knew that it was time to part ways.

"It’s getting late," he observed, turning his attention back to her. His voice was firm but still carried that same gentle tone. "I’ll send you back to the palace. It’s not safe for you to be out here alone at this hour."

Without another word, Griffin led her away from the square.

They came toward the point, where many carriages were being standing. Griffin talked to one of the chauffeurs and paid him for the journey ahead.

They walked towards the gathering of carriages, where drivers waited patiently for their next fare. Griffin exchanged a few words with one of the chauffeurs and handed him some coins, ensuring everything was set for Selvina’s journey back to the palace. As they finalized the arrangement, a sudden thought struck Selvina.

"My gift!" she exclaimed, her eyes widening as she remembered. She had left it earlier at a jewelry shop she often visited.

"I’ll be back soon," she said, turning to dash off, but Griffin quickly reached out, stopping her with a gentle but firm grip on her arm.

"Where did you leave it? Tell me, and I’ll go get it for you," he offered, his voice calm but insistent.

"It’s in a jewelry shop nearby," Selvina explained, her thoughts still jumbled from the evening’s events. Griffin paused, remembering the moment earlier when he had seen Selvina enter the shop but come out without anything. At the time, he hadn’t given it much thought, but now he realized that must have been where she had left her gift.

"Stay here," Griffin instructed, his tone leaving no room for argument. "I’ll bring it for you."

Before she could protest, he had already disappeared into the night, his form melding into the shadows with the swiftness of a seasoned vampire.

Selvina stood there, a mix of anxiety and curiosity bubbling within her. She hadn’t even mentioned the shop’s name, yet she found herself trusting Griffin to find it.

To her astonishment, Griffin reappeared within minutes, holding a neatly wrapped package in his hand. A smile spread across Selvina’s face, her heart warming at the sight.

"Thank you," she said softly as she accepted the package, feeling the smooth fabric of the dress inside.

Griffin gave a slight nod, his expression remaining composed as he guided her towards the carriage. "Let’s get you back to the palace," he said, helping her step up into the carriage with care.

As the carriage rolled gently along the cobblestone streets, Griffin broke the silence. "Selvina, you didn’t buy anything for yourself," he remarked, his gaze shifting to her.

"I didn’t find anything good for me," Selvina replied, her voice steady, though she chose not to mention that she was short on money.

Griffin’s eyes softened, as if he saw through her words. Without a word, he reached into the pocket of his overcoat and pulled out a small, intricately embellished box. "This is for you, Selvina. Happy Ambermoon Festival. I hope you always keep smiling," he said, extending the box toward her.

Selvina’s eyes widened in surprise as she took in the beautifully adorned box. Her hands hovered hesitantly over it. "I don’t think I’m worthy of something this expensive, My Lord," she murmured, feeling a mix of awe and reluctance.

Griffin’s expression turned firm but gentle. "Just take it," he insisted, placing the box on her lap before she could protest further. "It took me a lot of time to select this. And if you refuse to take it, then you can throw it away," he added, his tone slightly teasing but with an edge of seriousness.

Selvina’s heart skipped a beat at his words. "No," she whispered, almost instinctively, as her fingers closed around the box. "This is such an expensive gift. Why would I throw it away?"

A small, satisfied smile tugged at the corners of Griffin’s lips as he watched her admire the gift. Selvina’s reluctance began to fade as she gently traced the box’s intricate patterns, her mind racing with thoughts. She didn’t know why Griffin had gone to such lengths for her, but the warmth in his gesture was unmistakable.

"Thank you," Selvina finally said, her voice soft but sincere as she held the box close. The weight of her earlier concerns seemed to lift, replaced by a quiet appreciation for the man sitting before her.

Griffin nodded, pleased by her acceptance. "You’re welcome," he said simply, leaning back as the carriage continued its journey.

Chapter 384: Marriage Proposal 1

Odin meticulously counted the gifts, his mind racing to ensure nothing had been overlooked. He paused for a moment, considering if there was anything more he should add.

"My Lord, I’ve checked everything at least three times, just as you requested," Arthur, the house butler, assured him. "Everything is accounted for, so you can rest easy. Shall I instruct the servants to load the gifts into the carriage?" he asked, his voice calm and efficient.

"Yes, tell them to proceed," Odin replied, still deep in thought. As Arthur moved to carry out his orders, Odin turned to him again. "Do I look presentable?" he inquired, a hint of anxiety in his voice.

Arthur smiled, nodding with reassurance. "Yes, My Lord, you look impeccable," he said. "I’m glad you’ve finally decided to move forward with the marriage. It’s a decision that brings joy to the household," he added, his tone warm and approving.

Odin nodded, his expression softening slightly. "I couldn’t delay it any longer. The uncertainty was beginning to weigh on me," he admitted, his voice laced with a rare vulnerability. With a final glance at the gifts, Odin made his way to the carriage, followed closely by Arthur, who had already instructed the servants to load the gifts.

The journey to the Wilson’s house felt unusually short for Odin, much shorter than on any other day. He had always been composed, but today, for the first time, he felt nervous.

The woman he once despised had become the one he now cherished, and today, he intended to ask for her hand in marriage. The thought of Venus’s parents potentially opposing the union worried him, especially since he hadn’t always treated them kindly.

"My Lord, what have you been thinking?" Arthur’s voice broke through Odin’s reverie, pulling him back to the present.

Odin blinked, realizing he had been lost in thought. He gave Arthur a brief nod before stepping out of the carriage and making his way inside, with Arthur close behind.

As they entered the living hall, Odin’s steps faltered at the sight before him. Seated comfortably were Prince Magnus and Princess Alora. He hadn’t expected their presence.

"Odin! What brings you here?" Magnus’s voice rang out, his eyebrow arched in amusement as he took in Odin’s presence. His greeting caught everyone’s attention, drawing their eyes to Odin.

Steeling himself, Odin moved forward, offering a polite bow before addressing them. "Your Highness, Princess Alora," he greeted, maintaining his composure despite the unexpected encounter.

Magnus’s curiosity was piqued as he studied Odin. "I thought your work has ended, Odin. Then, what has brought you here?" A hint of a smile playing on his lips as he had already read Odin’s thoughts.

Odin straightened, forcing himself to remain calm. "I came to speak with Lord and Lady Wilson," he said, his voice steady though his heart raced slightly.

"My parents? Why?" Alora asked, her eyes narrowing with curiosity as she gazed at Odin, trying to piece together the reason for his unexpected visit.

Odin’s eyes swept across the room, searching for Venus, but she was nowhere in sight. His anxiety spiked slightly, but he kept his composure. Before he could respond, Magnus leaned in close to Alora and whispered, "You’ll get a surprise soon," his tone playful, leaving Alora more bewildered than before.

"Where’s Venus?" Odin asked, his voice betraying a hint of eagerness as his eyes continued to wander, hoping to catch a glimpse of her.

"She’s in the kitchen," Norman replied with a knowing smile, gesturing for Odin to take a seat.

"I’ll bring her here," Rhea chimed in with a warm smile, already well aware of the special moment that was about to unfold. She exchanged a quick, delighted glance with Norman, who was also smiling, though he was doing his best to contain the full extent of his happiness.

Odin took a seat, trying to remain calm despite the flurry of emotions swirling inside him. His heart pounded with each passing second.

"Oh, here she is! Venus, look who’s here!" Norman called out, his voice tinged with excitement as Venus stepped into the room.

Odin’s breath caught in his throat as he saw her, but before he could say anything, all eyes turned to Venus, who appeared surprised to find Odin there.

Meanwhile, Alora, still in the dark, looked around the room at the beaming faces, utterly clueless about what was happening. She could sense the joy in the air but couldn’t quite grasp the reason behind it, leaving her more curious than ever.

Odin’s gaze traced the lines of Venus’s figure from top to bottom before his eyes locked onto hers, holding her gaze for a moment longer than usual. He wondered when and how this woman, who once stirred only annoyance in him, had carved out such a significant place in his heart. The feelings she evoked were unlike anything he’d ever experienced.

Venus gracefully stepped forward, placing a tray laden with Alora’s favorite treats on the table. Her movements were calm, but Odin could see a flicker of something deeper in her eyes—perhaps a shared understanding of the weight of this moment.

"What’s going on?" Alora murmured, her eyes darting between Venus, Odin, and her parents, trying to piece together the unfolding situation.

Odin took a deep breath, the nerves that had been gnawing at him all day finally settling. "I am here to ask for Miss Venus’s hand in marriage, Lord and Lady Wilson," he declared, his voice steady and filled with sincerity.

He turned his gaze to Venus, offering her a subtle smile that carried all the emotions he couldn’t put into words. "She must have informed you about us," he added, trusting that Venus had prepared her parents for this moment.

"What???" Alora’s exclamation of shock echoed through the room, her voice the only one breaking the otherwise stunned silence. Her eyes widened in disbelief as she looked between the two.

"They’re in love," Magnus said, his tone amused at his wife’s surprise.

"Really? Oh my god!" Alora gasped, covering her mouth with her hands, still trying to process the sudden revelation.

Venus finally spoke, her voice soft but steady, "I was going to tell you, Alora," she said, her eyes shifting back to Odin, where they lingered with a mix of emotions—relief, joy, and a touch of nervousness.

Odin’s heart swelled with hope as he awaited the response from Venus’s parents.

Chapter 385: Marriage Proposal 2

"We’ve been prepared for this moment, Odin," Norman said, his laughter echoing through the room. "When Venus confided in us, we knew our decision was made." With a warm smile, he added, "We’re ready to give our daughter’s hand in marriage to you."

Alora approached Venus with a broad smile and wrapped her in a tight hug. "You should have told me sooner! When did this even start between the two of you?" she asked, her curiosity brimming as she held her sister close. As she gently pulled away, she guided Venus to sit beside Odin.

"Arthur, bring in the gifts," Odin called out, his voice steady and composed.

"Odin, I can’t believe you kept this from me!" Alora playfully complained, crossing her arms over her chest. "You shared this with Prince Magnus but not with your own sister-in-law? That’s not fair!"

"My apologies, Your Highness," Odin responded, inclining his head respectfully. "I wasn’t sure how to express my feelings to Venus at first, and I needed time to understand them myself."

"Alora, I think this started long before any of us realized," Norman interjected, turning to his elder daughter with a knowing look. "Your mother and I were just as surprised when Venus shared this with us the day before yesterday," he admitted, a soft chuckle escaping him as he recalled the moment.

"My lord, the gifts have arrived," Arthur informed Odin, who promptly rose from his seat.

"These are my humble offerings to Venus and her parents, a token of my respect and affection before the official wedding preparations commence. I hope you all find them pleasing, especially you, Venus," Odin said, his gaze softening as it fell on her.

Venus blushed deeply, her cheeks tinged with a warmth that everyone noticed, bringing smiles to their faces.

"Thank you, Lord Odin," Rhea responded, her voice filled with genuine appreciation. "This gesture truly touches our hearts. Please, remain seated," she added, her smile widening as she gestured for Odin to sit back down.

Odin hummed in agreement and gracefully returned to his seat.

Alora watched her sister’s radiant smile, feeling a deep sense of joy and relief. She had always dreamed of her sister’s happiness, and seeing Odin in love with Venus gave her confidence that Venus had made the wisest decision of her life. Finally, Venus was on the path to the happy married life she had always longed for.

Magnus, observing the scene, glanced at Alora with admiration. He was pleased that Odin had taken his advice to heart and followed his true feelings.

"Mr. Wilson, my friend Odin will undoubtedly keep your daughter happy," Magnus asserted with a respectful yet amused tone. "I believe Mr. and Mrs. Wilson should consider setting an auspicious date for the wedding soon. Odin seems quite eager to be with Venus."

"Is that so, Odin?" Alora teased with a playful grin, clearly enjoying the moment. "You love my sister that much?" she asked, unable to resist poking fun at Odin while savoring the happy scene before her.

~~~~~

Later that afternoon, Magnus and Odin found themselves alone in the serene garden of the Wilson Residence, enjoying a rare moment of privacy.

"So, how did you arrive at this decision so quickly?" Magnus asked, swirling the wine in his glass thoughtfully before bringing it to his lips for a sip. "I expected you to take weeks, maybe even longer, to acknowledge your feelings."

"Your Highness, you helped clear my mind," Odin replied, his voice steady as he gazed at the garden’s vibrant blooms. "I was tormenting myself, caught in a web of doubt. But when the Ambermoon Festival came, I decided to pursue Venus. I realized it was time to be honest with myself—and with her—about what I truly feel."

Magnus nodded, a pleased smile playing on his lips as he finally took a sip of his wine. "That’s good, Odin. You made the right choice," he said approvingly. "But tell me, how does it feel to be in love? I know you’ve been alone for so long, indifferent to many emotions, and quite stern in your ways."

Odin paused, contemplating his answer. "It’s...different, Your Highness," he began slowly. "For years, I’ve been focused on duty, keeping my emotions at bay, especially after I lost my family. Love was something I thought I could never afford. But with Venus, it feels like a part of me that was dormant has finally awakened. It’s both overwhelming and liberating—like I’m rediscovering what it means to be alive."

Magnus listened intently, his gaze fixed on Odin. "That’s the power of love," he remarked, his tone softening. "It changes you in ways you never expected. I’m glad you’ve found it, Odin. And I’m even more glad that you’re embracing it."

Odin nodded, a rare smile touching his lips. "I have you to thank for that, Your Highness. Your advice made me realize what I was too afraid to admit to myself."

Magnus raised his glass in a silent toast, his eyes shining with pride and warmth for his friend.

"It’s good to see everything around me finally brightening up. Perhaps I should attribute it to Alora’s entrance into my life?" Magnus chuckled, savoring the last sip of his wine.

Odin smiled and hummed in agreement. "That’s certainly true. I recall the first time Princess Alora was brought to your estate. She’s proven to be a blessing to those around her, not the curse all feared except for you," he asserted, his tone filled with admiration.

Magnus nodded, reflecting on Odin’s words. "Alora now radiates like a star," he continued, his voice full of pride. "She’s become something far greater than she ever could have within the confines of this place. The transformation is remarkable."

He paused, a thoughtful smile spreading across his face. "I can’t believe it, Odin—two men who once showed no interest in women are now about to become in-laws," he said with a delighted chuckle. "Life certainly has a way of surprising us, doesn’t it?"

Odin’s smile deepened. "Indeed it does, Your Highness. We’ve both found happiness in places we never expected. It’s a strange but welcome twist of fate."