The Grand Duke's Soulmate
Chapter 305: A Suspicious Marriage

Chapter 305: A Suspicious Marriage

The dining room atmosphere exuded tranquillity, accentuated only by the gentle clinking of cutlery as the group gathered around the table, savouring their brunch.

Eva turned to Callis, her voice filled with genuine concern. "How is the food, my dear? I apologise for not preparing a more elaborate feast with various options."

As the unexpected guests arrived, the Amareses graciously invited them to join in a meal while their bedrooms were being prepared.

"Oh, mother, it’s absolutely wonderful! I love it! Truly, there’s no need for an extensive array of dishes. I have grown accustomed to modest meals during our travels with my brother. So, I am more than content with whatever we have here. It is already more than sufficient," the Mederian Princess replied, her delight evident in her voice.

Kiev interjected teasingly, "Are you sure, Callis? I remember how you would always get excited when there was a celebration. You would try a lot of different street meals with great anticipation, and I’m sure you enjoyed every mouthful."

Callis pursed her lips, turning to her brother with a slight pout. Her expression mirrored a mix of annoyance and defensiveness. Kiev’s comment had inadvertently painted her as a gluttonous individual, which did not align well with her esteemed status as the beautiful Mederian Princess.

"Oh, sister! I had no idea that you enjoy street food. I figured you would appreciate a more elegant cuisine. Furthermore, even though you seem to have a large appetite, you have such a slender figure," remarked Nick, known for his bluntness.

Jason shot his brother a disapproving glare, silently conveying his displeasure. Oblivious to the meaning behind the look, Nick retorted, "What? Can’t I call her sister? Is there something wrong with that?"

"Of course you can! I am formally your sister-in-law since I am your brother’s wife. There’s nothing wrong with that, and I enjoy trying out new cuisines. The street food I tried in Gantz was delicious," Callis affirmed.

"I love street food too! It’s wonderful to discover that we share the same interests! Perhaps later, I can show you around and treat you to some mouthwatering street food in Rivendelle. The market stalls there offer an incredible variety! You must try them!" Nick exclaimed with enthusiasm.

"Absolutely! I would be thrilled!" Callis responded, her eyes sparkling with anticipation.

Kiev couldn’t resist teasing again, interjecting with a playful tone, "Just be careful, Callis. Having too many treats might lead to some extra pounds."

"Brother!" Callis exclaimed, her voice laced with protest.

Rafe, seated next to the Mederian Princess, chimed in, "It’s all right. I wouldn’t mind if she gained a little weight. In fact, I appreciate a woman with a healthy appetite more than someone who restricts themselves."

Callis turned to her husband, asking, "Really? You do?"

Rafe nodded in agreement with a gentle smile.

"As long as you’re healthy and happy, I have no objection to your food interests."

The Mederian Princess’s face lit up at her husband’s supportive response.

Observing Rafe’s caring gesture of cutting Callis’s food into small pieces to facilitate her eating, Louis and Eva couldn’t help but smile. They could see the genuine affection in their son’s actions toward the cheerful Mederian Princess.

Jason then interjected, "I hope sister can influence your appetite to match hers. Look at yourself... barely eating anything and still so thin. We all worry that you might get sick again."

"Sick?" Callis inquired, clearly unaware of the matter.

"That’s an old story! There’s no need to bring it up. What matters most to us is that you live and eat well, Rafe," Louis said.

Callis turned to Rafe, curious to understand his eating habits.

"You don’t enjoy eating, Rafe?"

She had noticed that the healer consumed little during their breakfast and throughout their journey.

"He would rather bury his nose in a book and read for hours than focus on his meals. He hardly ate on time when he used to stay here," Nick chimed in.

"I was immersed in my studies back then, and I needed to concentrate," Rafe gave an excuse.

"But you still eat very little. Look at your plate... you’ve only taken a few bites, and it’s already empty," Jason added.

"It’s just a habit. I need to be alert and ready while on duty, so I can’t afford to stuff myself with a lot of food. But don’t worry, I am fine and healthy," Rafe reassured them.

Callis couldn’t help but feel concerned upon learning about her husband’s low appetite. However, Eva chimed in, offering her reassurance.

"Well, now that you have a wife to look after you, I wouldn’t be worried anymore. I hope Callis can encourage Rafe to have his meals on time and in sufficient quantities. He can be quite picky about his food and usually prefers my cooking. But I’m certain he will love your cooking even more after this."

Callis blinked, momentarily at a loss for words. The fact that she was so bad in the kitchen was still unknown to her husband. Kiev couldn’t contain his amusement and let out a small laugh before quickly covering his mouth and looking down.

The Mederian Prince cleared his throat, composed himself, and smiled as he held back his laugh.

"I’m certain Rafe will love it."

His sister shot him a knowing glare, fully aware of the meaning behind his words. Elis, who sat beside Kiev, remained silent throughout the conversation. Oblivious, Jason suddenly changed the subject of discussion.

"I must say, sister, I am truly impressed by you. When we first received the letter from His Majesty announcing your sudden marriage, we were all surprised. We had assumed that someone as distinguished as you would have a different disposition. Mother, in particular, was concerned that you might find it challenging to adapt to our family, given that we are not of noble lineage. However, after meeting you, it doesn’t feel so," Jason added sincerely.

"I understand. People often misjudge me based on my appearance and lineage. Sadly, those who don’t know me would assume I am arrogant. But I can assure you that I am not. It’s just... people tend to form opinions about me based on a mere glance," the Mederian Princess explained, her voice tinged with melancholy as she downcast her eyes.

Quickly supporting his sister, Kiev chimed in, "Callis faced difficulties in making friends during her childhood because of these misconceptions. That’s why she has always stuck by my side. We share a close bond since she is my only sister."

Realising the impact of his words, Jason quickly sought forgiveness.

"Oh, sister, please forgive me! I never judged you in any way... I was merely worried that we might not be adequate for you since we come from humble backgrounds. Our lives were simple growing up. It was Rafe who made significant contributions to elevating our lifestyle when he was appointed the royal healer. He had done so much for us, and we are all grateful for that," said Jason.

"I’m not saying you are. I’m only sharing my experiences. I’m certain that all of you are good people. When I witnessed Rafe’s kindness, I knew he had a great upbringing and came from a loving family. I am genuinely thrilled to be a part of this family. Status holds no relevance when it comes to love," Callis clarified with sincerity.

"My, my... our daughter-in-law already expresses affection for her husband. We are relieved to see you happy and content, Callis. Of course, if anything is lacking, we apologise for that," Louis responded.

"No need for apologies. You are all perfect, just as you are. Sitting here and sharing a meal together like this truly makes me feel at home," the Mederian Princess expressed, her words bringing warmth to the dining table.

"You are already home, and you will always be welcome here," Eva added, creating a cosy and inviting atmosphere.

Eager to spend more time with his new sister-in-law, Jason asked, "Say, how long will you be staying this time, Rafe?"

"Three days," the healer responded curtly.

"Three days?! Why such a short visit? Can’t you stay a bit longer? We have just met our sister-in-law for the first time," Nick exclaimed.

Eva was also visibly affected, realising that her son and daughter-in-law wouldn’t be able to stay longer.

"His Highness the Grand Duke has travelled to Agathe Island to resolve a security dispute. I am currently responsible for the health of Lady Anna Raychard, his concubine, as she requires medical attention due to her fragile condition. That’s why I need to return quickly," Rafe explained.

The short visit was because the healer was required to be on standby during Anna’s training, which had been agreed upon with Eric and Meredith to be kept confidential.

Understanding the gravity of Rafe’s responsibilities, Louis reassured everyone, saying, "It’s all right. Rafe has a crucial role to fulfill. He wouldn’t be entrusted with such a responsibility if not required. His Highness went on a mission for Cassian’s safety and placed his trust in Rafe’s care. We shouldn’t be complaining."

"Thank you, father," Rafe expressed his gratitude. "Don’t worry, I will make more visits in the future."

Then, Jason posed a curious question, apologising in advance, "Forgive me for asking this, but I can’t help but wonder... Why did His Majesty arrange for your marriage in such haste? From what I learned, sister had just met you when she got injured, and her injury is still healing, indicating that it happened recently. Did something occur?"

Rafe, Callis, and Kiev exchanged glances, anticipating that such a question would arise.

The Mederian Princess took the initiative to respond, "I was deeply smitten with Rafe, and I asked His Majesty if I could marry him. He graciously granted my request, and that’s why we got married immediately."

"Even so, shouldn’t there have been proper traditions to follow, such as the parents’ meeting and betrothal? I may not be familiar with the Mederian ways, but His Majesty should be well aware of our customs. It seems strange for him to arrange a marriage so hastily unless something had happened," Nick added, voicing his opinion.

The dining room fell into complete silence as everyone processed the remarks. Rafe’s face displayed a nervous expression, noticeable to Jason, who couldn’t resist asking, "Rafe, what exactly happened?"

"Nothing!" Rafe exclaimed, his tone defensive.

"Are you sure? You got married without your family’s presence. It does seem suspicious," Jason asserted. "I mean... we wouldn’t have objected if you wanted to marry your choice, and Gantz is not that far away. It would have only been a two-day journey. If you had mentioned it earlier, we would have gladly attended your wedding."

The healer swallowed hard. He didn’t know what explanation to provide. Kiev had proposed that he give a white lie since the truth would only impact his observation of Rafe’s family.

However, considering their close bond, the healer thought deceiving his family didn’t seem viable. But then, telling the truth was also a bad choice since the Mederian Prince strongly disagreed with it, and it would also impact his family’s view of Callis. The healer had been cracking his head to find the proper excuse, but still, none.

"Did you do something to sister before marrying her, Rafe?" Nick asked, breaking the silence.

"Nicholas!" Louis raised his voice to his son as he felt his question was rude.

"No, I didn’t!" Rafe exclaimed hastily. His face turned horror at the accusation.

"That expression on your face tells a different story! I know you’re hiding something!" Jason pressed further.

"Oh, my God! You and sister..." Nick’s voice faltered as he closed his mouth.

"Stop it, you two!" Eva warned his sons, fearing the Mederians would be uncomfortable with their bluntness.

"It’s not what you think!" Rafe voiced out in defence of his brother’s remarks. "I swear, father and mother! I have never done anything to compromise the dignity of our family!"

Unable to contain her emotions any longer, Callis abruptly stood up, surprising everyone around the table.

"Forgive me, everyone! Rafe is not at fault! It was my doing! I apologise," she pleaded, bowing her head in remorse.

The Amareses displayed alarming looks, their minds racing with concern.

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