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CHAPTER TWENTY
Storm clouds formed along the horizon line once Vhagar landed.
An ill omen in Liliyana's tales. But, this was no fantasy.
This was a nightmare. Aemond only made it worse.
He was dutiful and attentive to her on Vhagar
"Hold my hands," he had gently told her. He pressed his fingers over her own, which had turned bone white on Vhagar's handlebars. "It's okay," Aemond whispered.
Liliyana brushed away the memory. She needed to focus on his wickedness. She refused to be in a marriage built upon secrets and false words.
"My prince!" Lord Borros Baratheon greeted them at the main gate. "My lady!" He bowed low. "What an honor to have you here."
"You have an impressive home," Liliyana told him, after he kissed her hand. "Thank you for seeing us."
He smiled, wicked and full of the unknown. "Thank you. I must admit, I was not aware you would be joining."
Liliyana smiled. "Last minute. I trust this is fine?"
The man nodded eagerly, frighteningly aware that Aemond stood at her back like a jagged shadow. "Not at all! You will bless my home with your beauty." He moved to the side to let them pass. "You've arrived just in time for the feast I've prepared."
~
Liliyana wasn't hungry. She felt sick.
To watch Baratheon parade around his daughters like they were toys.
She felt reminded of her mother.
One of the daughters--Liliyana did not pay attention to her name--sat on Aemond's left, closest to the king. Her words were sweet as honey and light. She was well-read in history and languages, just as Aemond was. Her husband cheerfully accepted her conversation.
Her sudden laugh had Liliyana shudder.
Liliyana gripped Aemond's fingers harder. To get his attention? Or to make him stop? She wasn't sure. She wanted to retire and go to sleep. Aemond could have her, if he so wished. He already had Liliyana's captors, regardless of her wishes. Who was to say, if she brought up this daughter, if he would actually relent and not speak to her again.
"I am fortunate enough to marry a woman I have loved for many years, my lord," Aemond suddenly said. "Please do not insult me again in such a way."
The table grew silent.
Lord Boros stilled, but his eyes clouded with rage. "I am sorry, my prince. It will not happen again."
What did she miss? Just for once, Liliyana wished she didn't get so long in her head.
