The Grand Duke's Soulmate
Chapter 138: Now Or Never

Chapter 138: Now Or Never

The carriage rolled along the cobblestone path, its pace leisurely as the driver skillfully guided the horses towards the grand mansion. Alex and Rafe attentively tended to Meredith inside the carriage, ensuring her comfort and well-being.

Meanwhile, Drystan rode alongside, his mighty warhorse leading the carriage. He haled with him the horses that belonged to Rafe and Alex, bringing them along on their journey.

The guards recognised the familiar emblem of the carriage as they approached the main gate and swiftly granted them passage. One of the guards hastened towards the mansion, eager to deliver the news of the carriage’s arrival.

Within moments, the mansion stirred with activity as Lord Grey, Meredith’s father, Rania, her loyal personal maid, and the entire household servants rushed out to welcome the visitors.

The carriage stopped in the grand foyer, and the driver swiftly descended, opening the carriage door efficiently. All eyes turned to the sight that unfolded before them—an imposing figure clad in knightly attire emerged from the carriage, cradling Meredith gently in his arms.

The sight left the mansion’s occupants awestruck, their astonishment evident on their faces.

"Mer! Oh, my dear little girl! You’re back!" Lord Grey’s voice trembled with overwhelming emotion as tears glistened in his eyes. He rushed forward, his concern etched on his face. "Are you all right?"

Lord Grey had traversed a long and challenging path in his relentless pursuit of his only child’s freedom. Desperate, he had pleaded with His Majesty, the King, but his efforts seemed futile.

The gravity of the accusations against Meredith made it an arduous task to secure her release. Even the fan club members, who had previously rallied in protest, now remained silent, fully aware of the dire consequences that befell their president.

Fearful of facing similar repercussions, their families had forbidden them from congregating and restricted their movements to the confines of their residences. They ventured out only when they were summoned to the palace for interrogations.

Still clinging tightly to Alex’s neck, Meredith turned her attention to her father. Her voice, though weary, held a note of assurance.

"Father, I am truly fine. Thanks to Lady Raychard and her loyal companions, I have been absolved of all accusations," she reassured him, her gratitude shining through her words.

Lord Grey absorbed her words, a mixture of relief and gratitude washing over him.

"Yes... Yes, I have heard the details from Rania. I am immensely relieved that you are finally safe," he admitted, his voice laden with profound gratitude. "I tried my utmost to secure your release, but His Majesty remained obstinate, denying me even the chance to see you. I feared I would never lay eyes on you again."

"It is indeed a relief, Lord Grey. His Majesty has shown benevolence by extending his pardon to Lady Meredith. Along with it, he also emphasised his desire to not have such incidents from occurring again in the future," Drystan informed.

Lord Grey’s gratitude overflowed as he wiped away his tears, his heart brimming with appreciation.

"Yes, I understand. I’ll make sure such a thing will never happen again. Thank you immensely for the noble acts of Lady Raychard. I am forever indebted," he expressed sincerely.

News of the grand duke’s new wife had swiftly spread throughout Gantz, reaching the ears of its inhabitants in no time. Rumours circulated, and some fortunate individuals had even caught glimpses of her during the incident when Rania halted the procession to the palace.

Witnessing Anna’s compassionate act of consoling a weeping maid, onlookers were captivated by her beauty and kindness, traits that were not often associated with the nobility. The emergence of these reports only solidified the impression of a remarkable and benevolent lady who had captured the grand duke’s heart.

Turning his attention to Meredith, he asked with concern, "Are you still feeling weak, my daughter?"

"I have thoroughly assessed her condition, Lord Grey, and nothing is alarming so far. She is just a little weak and tired for now. With proper rest and nourishment, she will regain her strength in a matter of days," Rafe explained, his expertise instilling confidence.

Lord Grey’s gratitude also extended to the healer, acknowledging his crucial role in his daughter’s well-being.

"Thank you, Mr Amares, for your dedicated care of my child," he said, his words filled with genuine appreciation.

As a minister of the royal council, Lord Grey was familiar with the esteemed members of the Gerhard knighthood, led by the grand duke himself, and he recognised Rafe’s competence.

The healer bore a remarkable reputation as a brilliant prodigy among the royal healers. In his earlier years, Rafe had served as the youngest royal healer, tending to the needs of the grand duke when he held the honourable title of Crown Prince of Cassian.

The healer’s exceptional skills and unwavering dedication to his craft had garnered him recognition and praise throughout the kingdom.

With a sense of responsibility and care, Lord Grey now sought to take charge of his daughter.

"You can entrust Meredith to me now. I will take her from here," he declared to Alex, who was holding his daughter.

The knight’s voice carried a sincere tone as he addressed Lord Grey.

"I humbly ask for your forgiveness, Lord Grey. However, Lady Raychard has entrusted me with the task of ensuring Lady Grey’s safety and well-being before I depart. For that, I’ll put her to her bed myself so my mind would be at ease knowing I have fulfilled my duty. I would be immensely grateful if you would kindly show me the way."

Lord Grey paused, contemplating the situation at hand. Though it was not customary for a bachelor to escort a maiden to her bed, he understood the genuine concern and duty that the knight held for his daughter.

With a composed demeanour, he responded, "I comprehend your intentions, Sir Jarr. If so, please allow me to guide you to her room."

Sensing the potential discomfort in the air, Meredith intervened with a gentle suggestion.

"Father, perhaps it would be best if Rania leads the way instead. Having too many people following us might make me feel suffocated. I would appreciate a bit of breathing space," she expressed.

Lord Grey nodded understandingly, acknowledging his daughter’s request.

"Very well, if that is what you desire, Mer. Rania, please lead the way to my daughter’s room," he instructed, granting his daughter the privacy she longed for.

Rania nodded and bowed. "Yes, my lord. Sir Jarr, please follow after me."

"Gentlemen, please come this way to the parlour and join me for a delightful afternoon tea," Lord Grey graciously extended the invitation to Drystan and Rafe. His warm welcome resonated with genuine hospitality, leaving no room for refusal.

The two men returned Lord Grey’s smile, appreciating the kind gesture. They gladly accepted the invitation, their grins mirroring the anticipation of a pleasant and friendly gathering.

***

The knight swiftly ascended the stairs to Meredith’s bedroom. As the door swung open, a vision of brightness greeted their eyes.

The room exuded a gentle charm, with walls coloured in soft pink hues and delicate white curtains billowing at the windows. A beige-coloured wardrobe and dresser full of makeup and ornaments, while various paintings of the esteemed Grand Duke of Gerhard adorned one side of the wall.

Still in Alex’s arms, Meredith urgently ordered her personal maid, "Rania, please go and brew me some tea."

Rania hesitated briefly. "But, my lady. I need to accompany you first. It would be best if you had someone by your side," she offered.

Impatience tugged at Meredith’s voice as she urged, "Just go! I’m thirsty! Go now!"

Reluctantly, the maid bowed and left the room to fulfil her lady’s request. As Rania departed, Alex’s hazel eyes followed her. His gaze lingered for a moment, and then his eyes returned to the sight of the room.

The knight inquired with genuine curiosity, "Is this your bedroom?"

Meeting his gaze, Meredith confirmed with a nod, "Yes, it is."

Alex entered the room, respecting her personal space, his steps echoing softly against the floor. However, his eyes inadvertently wandered towards the paintings of the grand duke’s charming face adorning the wall.

Noticing his gaze drifting toward the pictures, a flush of embarrassment tinted Meredith’s cheeks. Acting swiftly, she reached out and cupped Alex’s cheeks with her hand, surprising him and causing him to halt his steps.

"Don’t look at the paintings!" Meredith yelped.

Startled by the sudden touch, Alex’s eyes met her, a mix of surprise and warmth reflected in his gaze.

"I won’t. You don’t have to worry about it," he reassured her, his tone carrying a sense of ease and understanding.

Despite his calm response, a subtle blush spread across his ears, betraying the effect of her unexpected touch. Embarrassed, Meredith removed her hands from his cheeks.

Alex carefully carried the lady to the bed, gently lowering her onto its soft surface. With a tender touch, he knelt and began removing her shoes, his movements displaying care and attentiveness.

As he pulled the blanket over her, tucking her in snugly, Meredith’s heart raced with a mixture of gratitude and a growing sense of anticipation, feeling the knight’s proximity.

"You’re all settled. I shall take my leave now, Lady Grey," Alex remarked, bowing his head respectfully, preparing to retreat from the room.

Startled by the thought of him leaving so soon, Meredith’s instincts kicked in, compelling her to act swiftly.

She didn’t want him to leave now. Would she have another opportunity to be intimate with him like this later?

’It’s now or never, Mer! If you don’t take this chance, you’ll lose him for good!’ Her inner self spoke.

Without hesitation, she reached out, seizing Alex’s hand. Her grip was firm but trembling with an underlying urgency. Her mind raced, contemplating the possibilities and the fear of losing him.

"Wait!" she pleaded.

Slightly confused, Alex furrowed his brow, awaiting her following words.

"What is it? Is there something else you need?" Alex inquired with concern.

’Think quick, Mer! You need to come out with something strong! Something that will make him remember you!’ Her inner voice shouted again, urging her to seize this opportunity, to make a lasting impression and leave an indelible mark on his memory.

Taking a deep breath, Meredith’s eyes met Alex’s, trembling with vulnerability and resolve. She knew she couldn’t let him slip away without revealing her true feelings. With a newfound determination, she mustered her strength, ready to take a leap of faith.

She had fallen deeply in love with this knight since their first meeting, and now, she had made up her mind. Whatever it took, she was prepared to seize this moment, to express her true emotions and let fate take its course.

"Can you bend down a bit? I need to tell you something," Meredith’s voice trembled with nervousness as she made her request.

Alex found himself perplexed by her plea. It seemed rather peculiar for her to whisper when no one else was present in the room to overhear their conversation. Nonetheless, he couldn’t ignore the earnestness in her voice.

"Please..." Meredith repeated, her tone pleading, sensing Alex’s hesitation.

Relenting, the knight nodded, willing to comply with her unusual request. He bent down, bringing himself closer to her level.

"Like this?" he asked, a hint of confusion on his face as he leaned his left ear towards her, waiting to hear what she said.

But before he could fully comprehend her intentions, Meredith seized the opportunity. With a sudden movement, she raised her head.

’Chupp!’