~Never Apart~

~Chapter One: Not So Good Life~

I never thought of love before, but meeting him changed my life.

This takes place at my older brother, Leo's, wedding. It was beautiful. We were under the cherry blossom trees of my country's garden, the air was cool and calm, and I couldn't be happier for him.

I looked around and met my sister-in-law's father, Liam's, eyes. They were cold and full of hate, it seemed. I knew he didn't like us, and I knew why, too. He thought we were too secretive and too bubbly. One time, he told me, "You need to toughen up, you're a prince. You shouldn't be so happy and carefree all the time." That scared me. I wonder if he's worried for me or just trying to be mean. I wish I knew.

I know how special this day is to my country and my brother. He's just connected two countries together with a marriage all based on love. I'm happy for him, but what about myself? I haven't met or found anyone special to me. My parents won't let me leave the castle, but they'll let Leo leave. Is it because he's older? Or because he'll be king? Still, I should be allowed out of my castle even if it's just to see the rest of the kingdom. I only wish to see the world. I won't be king unless something happens to my brother, which won't happen, so I'll have tons of time to explore or travel. Why can't they see that?

A few days after the wedding Leo left for his honeymoon. He'll return for his coronation. I wish I could go with him and Jade. I even told him that I won't be a bother, that I won't get in his way. He still said no.

"I don't understand why I can't come!" I whined.

Leo replied, "Because this is my honeymoon." He was packing his bag after dismissing his servant

"That.. Well, what am I supposed to do? I'm never allowed outside the castle, I have no friends, and mother and father never have time for me!" I was upset more than ever now. My parents have always favored Leo over me. You'd think the youngest would steal all the attention, right? Not in my situation.

Leo met my eyes, which were full of tears, "I'm sorry. This is not going to change my mind. Cry all you want."

This is how Leo usually is. Since he is loved by everyone, his ego is high and he, too, has NO time for me. I wish someone cared about me. I exist too, you know..

"Whatever. Maybe when you leave, you'll stay away. Hopefully this ridiculous marriage will make you leave me alone for real. Which wouldn't change a thing since everyone in this country pretends I don't exist!" I shouted, then stormed out of his room, crying out of sadness and anger. It was true what I said, how everyone pretends I'm not here, that I don't exist.. It depresses me and I'm supposed to be one of the happiest kids alive. But no.

My brother has left now. It's been a few days since he has. Nothing seems different because when he was home, he'd always be preparing to become king, training all hours of the day. I hope Jade is ready for this: Leo only cares about his work. Nothing else. Not even me. I guarantee he won't even give his future children the sideways glance. I know he doesn't even look or pay attention to me. No one does.