Under the Oak Tree: Season 1 -3-

by Suji Kim

When Maxi saw his affectionate expression, she was momentarily overwhelmed with the urge to climb onto his lap and shower him with kisses. She wanted to caress the sharp outlines of his masculine face, to sit on his firm lap, and bury her face in his broad chest to breathe in his scent.

She did not want his consideration; she wanted him to take her with urgent need. Perhaps then she could forget how worthless and wretched she was. She would gladly bear the pain and exhaustion if it meant being in his arms, where all her anxiety and loneliness could melt away.

Ignoring the princess, Riftan looped an arm around Maxi’s shoulder and planted a kiss on the top of her head.

“He only had us wed because he did not think I would come back alive,” Riftan said in a terrifyingly gentle voice. “But come back I did, and our marriage was legitimate. That man no longer has any authority over you. I am your family now.”