Paul was left heartbroken after Chani left.

While he did publicly announce that he’d take your hand in marriage, it was only a political move so he could sit on the Golden Lion Throne, to hold the title of Emperor.

His prescient abilities couldn’t help him foresee the departure of the one he gave his heart to.

It happened shortly after your union to Paul became official, no matter how many times he tried to reason with her—she wouldn’t get it. He didn’t want to let her go but none of his words would persuade Chani to stay.

At least, he knew he could count on you.

He admired your intelligence, it explained why he was so adamant to have you around when it came to pressing matters. He trusted you, that much was clear.

Even then, the line between having you adjacent to an advisor and as a companion began to blur in the passing months. It rendered Paul confused, he never thought he’d hold affection for another after Chani’s leave.

He wasn’t blind. He could see that you wanted more than just fleeting moments with him. He did care for you, just not in the way he knew you wanted. It was always from a certain distance rather than visible.

Another battle came and went, the results were satisfactory. Although, success wasn’t without injury—Paul unfortunately exhausted himself to the point of dizziness and in the process, took a few hard hits. His attempts to assure you that he was fine failed.

The halls of the Arrakeen Palace were quiet whilst Paul laid in a deluded state in the comfort of his quarters. His eyes, nearly closed and his gaze set forwards as he allowed you to tend to him.

“Chani,” he managed to say, his head turning towards you.

His confusion didn’t waiver, how long would it be until he realized it was you and not her?

He managed to move his arm, an attempt to bring his hand closer to yours. Paul failed to suppress a groan of pain caused by an ache at his side.

“Chani—please,” he spoke with a shudder, taking a breath in between words.

He looked at you with a half lidded gaze. No, he didn’t see you for who you are, he saw whom he wished to see.