The World Cannot Know

Chapter 7

Matthew Wild

It was another night of a welcome dinner for all the families being here. A pre-ball gathering as my mother called it. As the evening descended, the grand hall was alive with chatter and laughter. The flickering candlelight cast a warm glow over the room, illuminating the faces of the assembled guests. The long banquet table was adorned with exquisite silverware and fine china, a feast fit for royalty.

Seated at the head of the table, the King and Queen sat talking animatedly to everyone close to them. Their voices carried across the room, punctuated by laughter and occasional nods of agreement. With each gesture, they exuded an aura of warmth and approachability, despite their lofty positions.

My eyes went to look for the prince, hoping his lively presence would liven my mood after today's encounter with Alice and Elizabeth. It cetrianly left me feeling unsettled and conflicted. Guilt too. Maybe I shouldn't have said anything. I have put them in a situation that could be life threatening for them. On one hand, I couldn't shake the nagging feeling that there was more to their story than they had let on. But on the other hand, I couldn't deny the relief I felt at having avoided a potentially scandalous situation that could have risked the prince's future.

I wrestled with my thoughts, wondering if I had done the right thing by not pressing Alice and Elizabeth further. Had the prince let them off too easily? Or had he simply avoided unnecessary drama? The uncertainty gnawed at me, leaving me feeling anxious and apprehensive about what the future might hold.

Turning my attention back to looking for the prince. My eyes travelled to him at back table seated next to Kathy. Their conversation seemed friendly, and a sense of foreboding washed over me. I think it was Alice and Elizabeth's situation. Kathy needed to stay away from them, especially Alice, who is content on finding out who told on them.

It was heartening to see them getting along so well. As I watched them laughing and chatting together, a twinge of something swelled within me. Watching them easily converse and the way the prince moved Kathy's hair from her face stirred a mix of emotions. There was admiration of their connection, but there was something that I couldn't quite shake off.

"They're taking a liking towards each other, aren't they?" Mother said, coming to stand next to me, her voice soft with observation.

I nodded, torn between the warmth of familial connection. "Yes, they seem to be getting along quite well," I replied, trying to mask any hint of inner conflict.

Mother glanced at me, her gaze perceptive as always. "You're pleased, aren't you?"

"Of course," I said, forcing a smile. "It's good for the kingdom if they get along."

She placed a reassuring hand on my shoulder. "Indeed, it is. And who knows, it might lead to something more beneficial for all of us."

I nodded again, but the unease persisted beneath the surface. "Yes, it could," I replied, my voice tight with uncertainty.

Mother gave me a knowing look before turning her attention back to the scene unfolding before us. "Just remember, Matthew, alliances are forged in many ways. Sometimes, even through unexpected connections."

Her words resonated with me, reminding me of the complexities of courtly life and the strategic nature of relationships. It was a stark reminder that even matters of the heart were often entwined with political considerations and the greater good of the kingdom. Does Kathy really deserve this? She deserves someone who would cherish her, someone who would stand by her side through thick and thin. Being the Queen has consequences, and I can't help but wonder if Kathy would be happy in such a role or if the prince will be able to provide her with the love and support she needed. Would Kathy become another pawn in the endless game of political chess?