Bluebeard's Curse (Dark Tales Book 1) by Regine Abel

Author:Regine Abel [Abel, Regine]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Published: 2017-02-15T00:00:00+00:00

CHAPTER 6

Astrid

Already eight months had gone by since the fateful day I had disobeyed my father and presented myself as an aspiring bride to King Eric Thorsen. Eight months of facing a challenge that didn’t feel like one, except on the first day of every month. Activating the seals was not only draining, but also increasingly painful, like a part of me was being torn out. Eric assured me it caused me no harm. Indeed, aside from the short-lived pain during the activation, and the bone deep weariness in the hours that followed, I seemed to suffer no aftermath.

It confused me that it was so easy when twenty-seven women before me had failed so miserably. Ariana, Eric’s last wife, had managed to last four months longer than everyone else for a total of six months. Was the effectiveness of the curse waning?

Fall slowly imposed itself and drove me out of my greenhouse. Over the past two weeks, I had gradually shut it down and stored the seeds for next year. I would miss my little haven and the wondrous fragrance of the fresh flowers I brought back to the castle almost daily. The servants still avoided me, but they no longer systematically averted their eyes when they met mine.

Eric was the perfect husband. Despite his numerous responsibilities, he always made time for me. That was especially true now that I spent most of my time within the castle. He was kind, tender and attentive. Eric sought every opportunity to spoil me. While I wasn’t materialistic, his little presents touched me deeply because they were personal. Knowing my passion for botany and books, Eric had brought back the best gift from his last diplomatic travels. It was a full collection of illuminated books on the caring and growing of exotic plants in a northern climate. Whenever possible, he would also bring me rare seeds, and the finest gold and silk threads for my embroidery.

Though he sought my advice or opinion on some matters, Eric didn’t involve me in the affairs of the state. However, as his queen, I would be expected to carry part of the royal burden, mainly through social events and diplomatic visits. I should also nurture harmonious relations between the people and the crown, counsel Eric, and support him in whatever capacity he required. But with the sword of Damocles hanging over my head, I would remain in the shadows until the trial was over. There was no point in forming friendships with allies and other counterparts if I was to be replaced weeks later by another.

I believed this was the reason Eric was so generous, giving me everything but himself. Granted, he seemed to genuinely enjoy my company and, far from waning, his insatiable hunger for me had increased over time. However, he kept his heart tightly closed off to me. I understood why he didn’t allow himself such vulnerability with this curse, but that didn’t stop me from wanting a real bond with my husband. I cared deeply for Eric.

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