Her King

Regina’s POV

My eyes keep on drifting back to Atlas as if he is some kind of magnet to whom I am attracted.

After the brief meeting with Raymond, I send my driver away as Atlas insisted to drive me to his home where we will have our lunch.

I sensed for some reason he hates being among people, the way his whole body was tensed and jaws were ticking it was clear crowded places make him anxious. But the funny thing was, every now and then he used to scrunches up his nose as if he has smelled something unpleasant. Honestly, he made me conscious and I even sniffed myself to make sure that I am not stinking.

So, when he asked to take me to his house for lunch, I agreed. And the delight which flashes across his eyes proved that I made the right decision.

He parks the car in front of a cottage style house, which I haven’t expected when I envisioned his house. I thought his house would be in some luxurious part of town, sort of an apartment rather than an actual homy looking house in the peaceful part of the town.

Glancing at him, I find him looking at me with a slightly nervous look.

“I hope your house is as beautiful from inside as it looks from outside,” I say while momentarily turning my gaze back to the house then to him.

Relief replaces his earlier nervous expression as he flashes me a smile which is enough to dazzle me.

Just like from outside even from inside this house looks cozy and warm. The interior has a perfect mixture of vintage and modern look. It doesn’t feel like I have come here for the first time, just like its owner this house... no, this home is also giving me a strong sense of belonging.

Atlas told me I can do whatever I want as he fixes our lunch. But the feeling to be near him is driving me crazy which is again weird as I am not a clingy person.

I quietly walk into the kitchen, but Atlas instantly turns to me sensing my presence.

“Can I help you with something?” Biting my lower lip I ask while hesitantly walking towards him.

Holding me from my waist he picks me up and hoists me on the counter as I let out a surprised squeal.

“Yes, you can sit here and watch me.” He gives me a cheeky smile.

Instead of having lunch in the main dining area, we decided to eat in the kitchen. Why? Because I am too comfortable to move to the dining area.

And being with him in this kitchen eating a home-cooked meal... this all seems personal.

“Hmm..." Closing my eyes I moan as the delicious taste of lasagna caresses my taste buds.

“Shit, this is so good,” I say in between chewing un-ladylike, “You make the best lasagna.”

“Thank you for allowing us to feed you.” His voice sounds slightly deeper than usual and there is a hidden hint of reverence behind his words.

Maybe I have gone insane to assume such things, but I feel it isn’t Atlas who is speaking.

Frantic knocking sound makes me jump and a loud inhuman hiss leaves Atlas’ mouth which makes my eyes widen in shock.

I watch his upper lip rolling inside as he is clenching his fists like he is trying to regain some control. Knocking continues, matching my heartbeat which is also frantic.

“Stay here, don’t come out.” Atlas orders and rushes out of the kitchen even before I can blink an eye.

Strangely, I am not scared just there is a worrisome feeling clenching my heart.