Chapter 12

Ameerah's POV
Valdus made sure Ephraim will never step in his palace now that we know his plans. I knew he's up to something so I'm not complacent. Our wedding was already announced and it will be held tomorrow.
Yeah. It was way too fast but we need to. I can risk my man and his kingdom that will be going to be my home too. Now I know how to break the curse.
It's now time to break it
I want to go home with Valdus, as my King and introduce to the world who we are. Me as one of them. I looked at the door and saw Amber peeking out. I gestured her to come in. He came in with the other helpers holding a large box that was sure to contain what I would use tomorrow.
"Your royal wedding gown was here your majesty," Amber announced
I nodded and gestured them to put the box beside our bed. I've been back to Valdus' room since we're already okay.
"Thanks," I muttered making her look at me
I patted her shoulder as she looked at me curiously. He is not at fault. Ephraim manipulate everyone including me to stop Valdus from marrying me. I also did something wrong. I didn"t know the whole story before I got angry. So I think, it's time to say sorry.
"Your majesty—"
"Stop calling me that Princess Amber. We both know you're not just a Queen's servant," I smile warmly at her
"Y-you—"
"Tomorrow ...," I sat on the bed and looked at him. "I will fulfill the help I promised you. Not because as your queen but as Valdus' wife. I love your brother so much and judging him without further explaining his side was my wrong. P-even you were touched. I'm sorry Princess Amber, "
I gave her a small smile which she returned with a wide grin. I let her hug me tightly and cry on my shoulder while caressing her back.
"T-Thank you Queen Ameerah! Thank you!" She cried
I continued to caress her back, "You're always welcome Princess,"
-
"Beautiful!" Amber exclaimed upon seeing her
Ameerah smiled and slowly stood up then faced the mirror. She glanced at the red wedding gown which was so very unsual to her world. Even though it wasn"t the traditional color used on the wedding day, she still loved the beautiful gown.
"Everything's ready your majesty," said the new assistant
Amber doesn't serve her anymore because she knows in herself that she has done her job well and has learned a lesson. Ameerah start walking towards the door while Amber beside her was complementing her beautiful gown. Minutes passed and they reached the big room, inside the palace, where Alvanticus held weddings and important gatherings.
Ameerah took a deep breath then looked at the big door in front of her now. Finally, she's getting married to the man she loved. He used to just dream and pray that he would have a husband like his father, who not only loved him but also appreciated him.
It's enough for her
She almost stopped breathing when the door finally opened revealing the massive room where they will held their wedding. Many people around were smiling and obviously overjoyed. She doesn't know if it's because she will marry Valdus or because the curse will disappear but she doesn't care. The important thing is, she is going to marry the man she loves now who is smiling at her and has dim eyes.
"You're so beautiful Ameerah," Valdus whispered in her ears
She was so overwhelmed at the moment so she'd just kissed him which made her laugh.
"Calm down, the ceremony hasn't started yet," Valdus teased
"Don't talk to me!" He complained
Valdus just shook his head and then pulled him closer to it. It's a pity that his parents and Valdus' parents are not here. She would be more happier, but it's okay. He will also see them.
The ceremony start and Ameerah can't stop smiling in happiness. Not until someone barged in, almost cracking the door. Everyone turned to the man who entered.
"Ephraim?" She murmured
Valdus automatically wrapped his arm around her. His mouth watered as he stared at Ephraim with a grin on his lips.
"How the hell did you get in here ?!" Valdus roared
Ameerah's grip on the young man tightened as she felt the ground move. Everyone panicked and went in the corners of the massive room, obviously afraid of the two man.
"You think I will let you get your FUCKING HAPPY EVER AFTER? No way in this COLD FREAKING GROUND I will let you get away in this Valdus! You put us all here!" Ephraim cries out
Valdus just laughed humorlessly before throwing a sharp look. "It's my father's fault not me! Why are you keep blaming in something I didn't do? You could've been right here and leaving this world if you didn't manipulate us!" Valdus bark
"NO. It's your fault. You don't deserve to live there, all mighty and immortal! No! I'm the one you will marry Ameerah if you don't want and if you want!" Ephraim
Ameerah remains stoic but deep inside, she's scared. He feels there is something in Ephraim but he can"t figure out what it is. All she know was, it's dangerous.
"You think I will let you?" Valdus smirked
I KNEW IT! Ephraim's eyes suddenly turned black. That just confirms her suspicions that something was up to him.
"How did you ..." Valdus trailed off, completely surprise. "Y-You did the black ritual?"
Ephraim just laughed devilishly while not taking his eyes off the two of them.
"Surprise! You're not the only one here! NOW GIVE THE PRINCESS OR ELSE YOU'LL DIE!" Ephraim
The way he acts and looks right now, makes him completely lose his mind. If a simple person were to look at him now, it would probably be scary.
"V-Valdus ...," She trailed off
He looked at her and gave her a reassuring smile, "I won't never surrender your Ameerah,"
"VALDUS !!" Ameerah shouted in shock
For a paper Valdus was thrown against the wall and because of the force of his hit, it was destroyed. He groaned in pain. She tried to step so she can reach him but she suddenly become pinned in her spot.
"Let's start our wedding ... My lovely Queen,"
Ameerah's POV
I tried my best to hold my ground and not to show any fear. I looked at Valdus who was slowly getting up from his position. His men scattered around the area.
I sighed in shock as Ephraim pulled me closer to him. I stare back in shock in those black eyes. I gritted my teeth.
"It's time—"
I didn't finish what he was going to say when I pushed him hard. He budge but immediately gain himself.
"You're not part of the people I want to save! You're a manipulative bastard trying to compete with Valdus which clearly can't match up with him even a bit!" I'm sick of being bitten by his mouth. "Accept that you don't deserve Ephraim. You live in fury and greed. You deserve being— urgh!"
"Ameerah!" Valdus shouted
I gritted my teeth to prevent myself from grunting in pain. I won't give this bastard a satisfaction.
"You bitch! You know nothing! So shut the hell up and marry—"
He was pinned in the wall when Valdus punched him right in his face. I felt Valdus holding me so I looked up at him.
"Stay with them," he commanded
It was only then that I realized that I was next to Amber who was holding my arm and we were surrounded by soldiers ready to fight. My eyes stare at Valdus as his wedding suit change into a metallic armor suit. His eyes were like fire, it's burning in fury.
"I'm not oblivious of what you did. For the past years I'd been here and I'm with you. I tried all my best to make you understand that it's not my fault. It's not our fault. It's our fathers Ephraim but you're too clouded of anger and I think, it's none of my fault too, "Valdus point his sword in the ground and rest his hand at it. "I'm enough of your sick narrow mind,"
I flinched in spot when Valdus attacked him which Ephraim immediately avoided. It hit the wall and caused a light, it seemed to have some kind of power. I can see that he's not holding back anymore.
This time, it's Ephraim turn in attacking. He continued to attack Valdus but not a single wound did he inflict on it. Valdus was too fast to hit which makes me relieved.
"Goddamn it!" Ephraim cussed as he was wounded on the side
He gave Valdus a murderous glare but Valdus seems unbothered. We watched as Ephraim slowly stood up until his gaze fell on me.
"All I want is to live," his voice breaks and seems to choke my heart. "But because of your father. All my dreams were ruined–" he looked at Valdus
"Everything that I dreamed even the girl I loved forget me and it's because of your father! You're all greedy of power!" He shouted, I felt Amber's tight grip on my arm. "And I'll do everything just don't be happy!"
Everything happens so fast. Ephraim disappear and appear without a second in front of me.
"I'm sorry Ameera but you need to rest,"
I gasped when a felt an excruciating pain in my stomach. My vision started to blur as my hands went in the sword that pierce my flesh. The knees weakened and he fell to his knees.
"AMEERAH!"
I saw a dazzling light but my vision gradually blurred to find out what it was.
I fell into the ground as the darkness enveloped me.

A very strong lightining hurt their eyes but Valdus was not stopped and approached Ameerah. His heart breaks into pieces by looking at Ameerah's condition.
The sword that Ephraim stabbed went through it from the thigh to the back. It feels like his knees lose strength and he falls to the ground.
"A-Ameerah ... M-My Queen ... N-no ... Y-you can't live me. Ameerah! Please! W-Wake up! Wake up! Don't do this to me!"
Valdus can't hold it anymore. Tears fell he was holding back as he held the body of the woman he loved gradually losing color. He pulled the sword off and threw it. He touched its cheek and tapped it, hoping it would come back to him.
But she's already gone
"A-Ameerah ... I-I'm sorry .. I-It's my fault. I-I love you, baby. I love you. Comeback please. Comeback," He begged with tears flowing from his eyes
He hug her body and scream from the top of his lungs to lessen the pain he's feeling but no, it didn't. Every minute he thinks the woman he loves is gone. Her heart hurts even more.
How can he live now? How can he live when the only thing making him alive was now gone?
"A-Ameerah," Amber breaks down beside him
He didn't lose the woman in his arms even a few minutes later. He don't know what happened to Ephraim but he doesn't care either. All he knew in those moments was not to be separated from the woman he loved.
"K-Kuya! The Aldafor's here!" The brother informs in a trembling voice
He was blocked out. He can't hear or feel anything. It's simply cold. It was as if he had been killed inside because of illness. His heart were clenching in pain and madness.
"Valdus,"
"What do you want?" He asked in a cold voice
He felt tired suddenly, tired of all this. He wants to relax with the woman he loves but how? He's immortal. He'll never die. Maybe he'll just sleep the whole day to lessen the pain. Because it was so unbearable right now.
He wanted to do a lot. Wants to say and wants to fulfill with Ameerah. But he's too late. The cursed has gone too far and it leads to his innocent Ameerah's paying the price. It knew nothing of their sins and mistakes but it was he who died. The person he loved who wholeheartedly wanted to help him suffered.
"She's alive,"
Valdus seemed to come to life suddenly from what he heard and immediately looked up at the woman in white. The one who cursed him and all of his people. Her eyes were warm.
"P-Please .. B-Bring her back ... I want her back! I'll do everything ... Just bring her back," He begged not caring if he looked like a fool now
All he wanted was for Ameerah to come back. He is ready to give up everything. The power, the kingdom and all he has for the life of the woman he loves. All he care is her.
"She'll live ... if you accept to let go of your immortality—"
"I'll do it! Just please bring her back! I want her back!" He had no doubt about the answer
The woman was obviously surprised by what he said but also recovered. She smiled happily at him before kneeling beside the woman.
"You finally learned your lesson Valdus. You deserved her," the Aldaforian whispered
The woman raised her hand and placed it on his forehead then whispered. The moment she finished saying some unfamiliar words, Ameerah breath.
"A-Ameerah? Thank you. Thank you baby for coming. Thank you!" He whispered in the woman
"V-Valdus? What happened? E-Ephraim," Ameerah asked confused
"He's been punished, Ameerah. Everything's okay now. Hope you the best," The woman said before disappearing
Ameerah looked at him and her eyes widened. He smiled warmly at her and caressed her cheeks.
"I love yo—"
"Y-Your eyes! It wasn't red anymore! I-It's—"
"Gray. My eyes were gray back then Ameerah. When I was mortal," he explained here
"I-If so—"
"I loved you so much so I bargain. My powers and immortality for your life, my Queen,"
Ameerah burst into tears and kissed him on the lips which she accepted wholeheartedly. He can't believe he almost lost her. He has no regrets about his decisions.
"I loved you too, my King. I'm so happy! Are we back yet?" Question it
He frowned, "Back where?" He asked his wife
"Ameerah!" He shouted as he stood up and ran to the closed door
He stand up but he frozed when he saw the sun's light. She couldn't believe it and so could the people who witnessed their wedding.
"L-Look! Kuya! I'm back! We're back!" Amber said happily that like her, her natural eye color returned
Ameerah walked near him and hugged him real tight. "Welcome back, my King,"
Ameerah's POV
"You think this is a good idea? I mean ... They knew you're ... dead," Valdus trailed off
I just laughed then pulled him onto the horse we would use to go to Filifia. It's been two weeks since the curse disappeared and everyone is having so much fun. I have nothing more to ask for. I just want to see my parents and tell them I'm alive.
"We need to tell them and the whole world needs to know that there is a kingdom named Alvanticus! So come on!" I try
He did nothing and rode his own horse. We passed by some several houses waving at us. I waved at them back.
"Your highness! Someone's in the gate! They want to come in and ask questions," the hurried soldier said in a hurry.
Valdus and I looked at each other then he nodded. I let Valdus lead the way before following him until we reached the gate. He was the first to come down to inspect the visitor. I waited for him but when I heard voices, I frozed.
"Papa!"
I went down quickly at four o'clock and did not let the soldiers stop me. My eyes widens when I see my father with my brother, confused of how there's another kingdom here, talking to Valdus.
"Papaa!" I shout
They turned to me once more and they were so shocked when I saw them. Father hop off from his horse and run towards me. I hug him tight.
"P-Princess! Ameerah! H-How !? How come y-your ..." She couldn't believe her question
"I was lost in the woods and then I discovered Alvanticus. Sorry Papa. I get so close to this country and fell in love with their great King," I smiled at Valdus. "I forgot to come home," I explained
"B-But! We buried you!" Kuya Lu exclaimed
But I remain innocent. No one should know what happened to Alvanticus. It's in the past now and it will remain there only.
"B-Buried me?" The eyes widened looking at him
"Stop son! Don't go there!" Dad's warning. "The important life is your brother,"
Kuya nodded then hugged me tightly, "Still can't believe," he whispered
The two of them turned to look at Valdus who didn't seem to know what to do. I laughed mentally.
"Papa! Kuya Lu! Meet my husband, slash King of Alvanticus, Valdus," I said with a wide smile.
"WHAT?" They both exclaimed before looking murderously at Valdus
"H-Hi," Valdus said akwardly
Now, it's time for you to face my family Valdus.

Ameerah's POV
"Would they accept me?" Valdus asked incredulously
I laughed at the way he looked today. Who would have thought that this man was also nervous and pale? I came closer to him and hugged him in his side.
"They won't bite, my dear King," I teased. "You just have to talk to them. I know everyone will be shocked that I'm alive so you're good at slipping!"
He let out a loud breathe before hugging me. I run my fingers through his black thick hair. I could feel his warm breath on my neck. It sends tingles in my stomach.
"Alright. I'll do my best to show them. I deserved you," he looked up at me and smiled kindly.
I smiled back at him before putting a soft kiss in his lips that turn into a very hot and passionate kiss. I didn't stop him. I let his lips drop to my neck and accented howling.
"But for now, you first," he whispered huskily
*
"Damn! We're late," he complained
I glare at him before straightening my floor-length gown. How can we not be late for our conversation with Papa, eh he doesn't want to wake me up in bed.
Thank God. I'm not sore anymore unlike the last time. This man was insatiable! If he's not sleepy yet, he won't freaking stop!
"It's your fault! Hmp," I muttered then came out
He quickly followed me and held my hand tightly. I rolled my eyes at him but eventually laughed as the pallor returned to his face.
The ride takes 30 minutes since Alvanticus is very close to Filifia. I still can't believe that Alvanticus has returned and I also can't believe that Alvanticus is stationed in the north.
"Ma!" I cried when I saw Mama sitting next to Papa
Her eyes widens as if she saw a ghost. Well, who wouldn't be surprised if the one you think is dead is in front of me and calls you. She stands up abruptly and runs towards me. I accepted his warm hug.
"I-I thought ..." Mama let go of the hug and touched my cheek
My heart clenched when I see tears in her eyes. My mother was a very tough woman and seeing her cry because of me, makes my heart break.
"Ma ... I'm here. It's okay. I'm sorry for not coming back," I apologized
He caressed my cheek then gave me a kiss on the forehead that he always did when I was a child.
"All's important was you, Ameerah. Come back son,"
I smiled broadly, "Of course. By the way," I turned to Valdus and held his hand.
"King of Alvanticus, Valdus. Ma, he's now my husband,"
Her jaw dropped, "You better explain all of this to me, young man,"
Valdus took a deep breathe and gulped. I bit my lip so hard to stop laughing because of her pallor. I knew my mother. She can intimidate any man, old or young by her soul-piercing stare.
"I-It's been a long story but I swear, I love your daughter. I couldn't explain how we met ... and how we end up marrying without you and your husband consent but I swear, I love her and I ' ll do everything to make her happy and protected, "Valdus explain
Mama just stared at him with her arms crossed. It wa awfully 5 minutes silence before mother finally smile. She patted his shoulder lessening the tense he's feeling right now. I was shaken. See ?! My mother can intimidate anyone
I walked to Valdus and held his cold sweating hand. I smiled at her and leaned over then turned to Mama.
"Well ...," Mom smiled. "Welcome to the Valdus family. I won't ask how ... my son is here in front of me. Because I see you love him,"
Father walked closer to mother and held her closer. His arm around her waist.
"Take care of my princess, young man. She's our diamond. Neve treat her like a trash or else—"
Father was cut off by Kuya Lu that has a small smile in his lips but eyes were giving a warning.
"Or else, you won't see my brother again. Understand?" Kuya Lu
Valdus smiled warmly, "I understand, brother,"
I smiled at what Valdus said. I know he went through a lot and he lost his family early so to hear him call my brother to my brother will be an ease for us. It makes me fulfill knowing my husband has now a family.
"Well? What are we waiting for? Let's throw a party!"
*** 8 years later ***
"Giovanni!" Ameerah called out
The immature child looked at him and then smiled. He was already shivering because of its awkwardness but he just restrained himself. Giovanni got his look from his father mostly. Only his blue eyes inherited it from him and habit.
It took away his stubbornness when he was young. He then apologized to Lady Alice because he had already experienced the stubbornness that his son inherited.
"I'm warning you Giovanni — Don't touch the mud! It's dirty!" She exclaimed
It was as if she was going to faint because of her excessive stress on her child. The maids help her catch Prince Giovanni and washed his hands. When it was clean, he hurried over to her and hugged her.
"The worms were amazing Mom!" It was a happy story that made him grin
He suddenly turned his back when he heard someone laughing. Valdus with some of his men trailing behind him. He sat down next to her and kissed her on the cheek.
"My son. You're giving your mother a headache again," Valdus laughed
He led the child and sat him down next to him. He kissed his forehead frowning at it.
"You're this Dad!" Its complaint. "Men don't kissed men!"
He got a facepalm. It accompanies the twin Vane, as well as its speech. The child imitated. Valdus just laughed at his own son silly reaction.
"Common. Let's play," Valdus said as his son agreed
Valdus gave her a mischievous smile before giving her a passionate kiss and whisper something.
"After, we'll play in our room, Ameerah," he whispered huskily
He laughed at it and jokingly slapped its chest. Valdus chuckled before following their son. He was just shaken. It's been 8 years since they got married and they never had a dull moment.
Thanks to him and his love for me
He leaned back in his chair and watched his father and son play football happily. She was so happy. She thought she would never experience this again but she was wrong. True love proved her that the pain only last shortly, the rest were happiness.
He was caught in the bulging tyan. She smile to herself. Life isn't perfect but she will make it perfect for her children and the man she loves
❣THE END❣