NOVEL NEXT Chapter 11: Chapter 11: Rival-to-lover
Alaric and Carlton were undoubtedly the most popular couple amongst readers, however, they weren't the only ones that fans shipped. The second most beloved pairing was none other than Alaric's and Carlton's closest confidants, Kastiel and Rowan.
Despite being friends since childhood, Kastiel and Rowan had always been in competition with one another. Whether it was swordplay or academics, both men strived to be the very best at everything they did.
Rival-to-lover stories had always been a fan favorite trope, so it came as no surprise when readers began rooting for Kastiel and Rowan to end up together.
Even in that popular fanfic that centered around Alaric and Carlton, the author made sure to include Kastiel and Rowan's blossoming romance as a side story. And just like with Alaric and Carlton, fans couldn't get enough of their dynamic.
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In the hushed confines of the study room, a palpable tension hung in the air, thick enough to slice through with a blade. Rowan's pause seemed to reverberate throughout the space before he finally cleared his throat, his probing tone a gentle summons to acknowledge his presence.
Immediately, three sets of eyes snapped toward him - with Kastiel's expression caught Rowan off guard, it was one of panic, fear, embarrassment... and relief? He shifted his gaze over to Carlton and furrowed his brows at the strange change that seemed to have taken hold of him too.
Concerned for the young Duke after hearing that he had fainted earlier, Rowan had rushed over to the palace, only to noticed a significant change in Carlton. Instead of feeling cold and aloof like usual, there was an uncharacteristic gentleness radiating from him.
His curiosity peaked when Carlton spoke about Rowan having sex with Kastiel and the latter giving birth to kids for him. But how could that be possible? Wasn't Kastiel a man?
"My lord..." Rowan spoke carefully, concern etched across his face. "Are you alright?"
Before Carlton had a chance to reply, Kastiel interjected indignantly. "After hearing such absurd claims, you're not even going to question it first?!"
Rowan shot back at Kastiel with a contemptuous sneer. "Duke Carlton's well-being is of the utmost importance to me," he declared coldly. "I pity His Highness for having someone like you - who can't discern what truly matters from trivial nonsense - as his most trusted confidant."
Kastiel bristled at Rowan's words and shot back defensively, "Don't bring up His Highness! He wouldn't stoop so low as to think like you and certainly wouldn't think bad like that about me!"
Kastiel's words caused Carlton to shoot him a furious look. Feeling a chill run down his spine, Kastiel knew Carlton was looking at him with anger in his eyes due to the fact he still thought Kastiel had feelings for Alaric. Trying to change the topic, he redirected the conversation towards Carlton's earlier statement.
"His highness is our future leader, of course, he is broad-minded and wise... ahem... By the way, did it shock you when Duke Carlton mentioned me giving birth to your children?"
Rowan felt a wave of curiosity wash over him at Kastiel's words and nodded in agreement. He turned towards Carlton, waiting for an explanation.
"My lord, can you explain what you meant earlier?" he asked.
However, it was Alaric who spoke up next. He had been silent throughout the conversation but now wore an awkward smile on his face as he looked at Rowan.
"Before we get into that, how about we give you some context from the beginning?"
Alaric suggested hesitantly. Rowan was even more puzzled now, but he nodded nonetheless, eager to understand what was going on.
Alaric motioned for everyone to sit down, realizing that the conversation ahead was going to be lengthy and complex. As he settled down, Carlton immediately nestled beside him, wrapping his arm around Alaric's affectionately.
To anyone watching, it appeared that Alaric had completely surrendered to Carlton's endearing gestures. Kastiel sighed deeply, gradually accepting this disconcerting display.
Rowan, however, felt like a deer caught in headlights as he was pulled into the chair next to Kastiel. He felt utterly shaken at seeing the typically aloof Carlton transformed into someone so affectionate and indulgent.
No, that can't be right... Why is His Grace, who hates physical contact, clinging onto His Highness like that? And look at those eyes - they're practically glued to him!
Suddenly, Rowan noticed something even more alarming: Carlton's hand was stroking Alaric's thigh! He felt his mind go blank and his body freeze up; it was as if he were nothing but a leaf being tossed around by a strong gust of wind.
Kastiel noticed his distress and patted his shoulder in sympathy before warning him about what he was about to hear.
"What you're about to learn may be more shocking than anything you've ever known. Prepare your heart."
A wave of anxiety swept over Rowan, causing him to feel like he wanted to flee the room. He had a nagging feeling that whatever Alaric was about to reveal would turn everything he knew on its head and shake his world apart.