A Tale of Arranged Hearts ( Medieval Romance )

Part 6

Their day went on without talking to each other, contemplating their nothing and the words said. Alexander to the brow of some steam in the fighting pits. Fueled by an inferno of emotions, engaged in fierce hand-to-hand combat. With each calculated move, his large muscles flexed and rippled beneath the fabric, the drops of sweat running down his clenched face. Dressed in light working pants that clung to his firm form and a shirt that outlined every contour of his shoulders, back, and abs, he exuded raw, primal energy, the strong stand a definition of his powerful frame. The commander of the army's defense group, a formidable opponent, met his every strike with equal intensity. The air crackled with tension as the two men circled each other, the training grounds echoed with the sounds of grunts and exertion. A punch to the stomach, and then another, one more. Commander clenched the side, backing up, looking for an opening. But there was none. Alexander's fist flew to the jaw, taking the enemy off balance, with a final blow, he knocked out the man.

He moved to his chambers to shower and change clothes. He wanted to have another conversation with Isabella but decided that a mere apology would not get him anywhere, he needed a strong and reliable option. His father was a faithful and loving husband for over 24 years. He was in his study room, writing something on the table. As soon as the young man entered he sat opposite side of the table and poured out his frustrations, the words stumbling over his lips. The king, a figure of wisdom and experience, listened intently. A raspy chugging and a soft look was evident.
"Love, my son, is a complex aspect of actions and understanding. Apologies are a start, but actions speak louder than words. Show Isabella the depth of your regret through your deeds."
"Love? What love are you talking about father, this woman drags my brains across the walls. I DON'T UNDERSTAND HER." Alexander's loud shouting and a slam on the table gave the idea of a complex situation, his father massaged his temples.
"No one cared about what I said or what I've done before except her, why is she acting as if she's my wife, why can't she be like everyone else?" Alexander stood up and began wandering around the room.
"I feel like she genuinely tries to make me angry, she always acts as if she hates me."
"Oh son, you are one of the smartest men I know, so why are you so unaware?"
"Unaware of what?"
"Soon son, you will know. But as for the apology, present her a gift, a thoughtful gift. She will be your wife, try to listen and understand her, show her that you care." A valuable advice on navigating the intricacies of a woman's heart.

The young pair found themselves in the same position as earlier, waiting outside the castle walls for an important guest. Side by side. Although in this moment thick air hung as Alexander and Isabella did not exchange a single word. The distant clatter of hooves echoed through the courtyard, signaling the approach of the carriage that bore their esteemed guest. The arrival of Princess Thalia. As the carriage rolled into view, Alexander and Isabella exchanged a glance. Blonde wavy hair was reminiscent of ocean waves, catching the sunlight as she descended. Her blue eyes captivate with the depth of the sea, giving you a feeling as if you can drown in them. And pale skin adorned with sun-kissed cheeks. Princess Thalia Windmere, a close friend of Isabella since childhood, possesses a serene beauty. But also a member of a royal family, daughter of an ally Kingdom, and a valuable guest. Beside her stood Lieutenant David Dubois, a man who has followed her for years, keeping her safe, a figure of strength and duty. As Princess Thalia was approaching them, her face radiating a soft smile with sparkling eyes. As she was a short distance away, Isabella bowed out of respect, and they embraced each other, a warm hug with sweet words. Alexander and David, silent observers, couldn't help but notice the connection between the two women. After the two crowns exchanged greetings, Thalia was guided to the throne room to meet their graces. On the way they had a small talk about the travel, weather, and upcoming events, although promised deeper conversations in the garden house, over some tea.

In the tranquil garden house, surrounded by the fragrant blossoms of various flowers, secrets were being untold. In the white wood garden house, a table and stools are arranged with a clean porcelain tea set. They were talking about many things before Thalia asked the lady about her wedding expectations. She knew of their tight relationship but did not expect what it had become. The conversation took a turn once Isabella opened up about her relationship with Alexander.
"We have a complicated relationship, it's much worse than it was before," Isabella confessed, her voice tinged with concern.
"We used to ignore each other's existence but now, we always fight. I don't know how we're going to rule a kingdom when we cannot hear each other out."
Princess Thalia listened attentively, her face reflecting genuine concern. She shared,
"When we were children, Alexander and you had a good relationship. Maybe there's something you can do to bring back those good terms. It's worth a try." Isabella, still hesitant, stated,
"We can't tolerate each other, he is rude and arrogant, he wants me to follow all his rules and conditions, although when I open my mouth he shuts me up."
Princess Thalia, her eyes reflecting empathy.
"There must be a reason he was drawn to you. Perhaps, in the chaos, there's an opportunity for understanding. If there's a flicker of the past connection, it could grow into something stronger." Isabella, her gaze lost in the distant landscape, sighed.
"I doubt it. He doesn't listen, Thalia. We're like two opposing forces destined to collide." Thalia reached out, placing a reassuring hand on Isabella's, "Maybe he doesn't know how to express himself. Men can be as lost as we are. Give him time, and perhaps he'll surprise you." Isabella looked at Thalia, appreciating her attempt to bring solace.
    "I'm not sure that will work, but I'll try. Thank you, Thalia, you must have your problems, while I'm barring you with mine." Thalia smiled gently.
    "You're both strong-willed, finding a middle ground might be challenging, but it's not impossible. You two are so cute together, watching your little banters is entertaining." Thalias laughter rings out, setting sparks in brown eyes.
    "You have my respect your highness, but you have been of age for quite a while, why are you still not wed? Are there no suitors?" Now it was Isabella laughing, though Thalia was unhinged by the humor.
    "Oh if only I could joke about this matter. But my father is not happy with my attitude towards marriage."
    "What do you mean?"
    "There are suitors, those that would bring my kingdom fortunes, those that would make me happy, a queen."
    "If that is the case then why are you still not wed?" Isabella found herself further confused. If Thalia's depiction of everything being magnificent was accurate, why, then, remained the daughter of King George Aristos unwed? Thought the blond saw the perplexed face and answered further.
    "We are not in need of finances since we have the water trade tax, we have not been to war in many years. As for connections with other kingdoms, my brothers, all except the youngest are wed to form alliances. The leaves me to have no exaggerating changes to our house, why must I be used as a sold off? This left me to reject every suitor." After she poured her heart out, her expression showed as if there was still more to say. So Isabella asked once more.
    "Are you sure that is exactly why you rejected all those suitors?" She was looking into the blue eyes, as if she already knew the answer but wanted Thalia to say the words, and so she did.
    " There is someone. Someone special, who has been on my thoughts for a while." This confession left Isabella stunned.
    "My lord, Thalia! Who is this man? Do I know him? Why haven't you told me of him before?" She was almost squealing, exited.
    "He has been on my thoughts, although I do not know what he feels towards me, it's a simple flirt, nothing but secret glances."
    "Oh please Thalia, if he has you rejecting future kings then he doesn't only have your heart." Isabella was sheepishly smiling, placing her hands in Thalia's.
    "Will you tell me who he is?"
    "He is no one, not someone who would be allowed to marry me. So if I may, I will keep it a secret for now." She was obviously upset, lowering her eyes, and distracting herself with now tea. This was the queue for Isabella to change their topic of discussion. The ladies continued to talk, laughter gradually returning to their exchange as they discussed lighter topics like the upcoming ball, dresses, and the joy that could blossom in unexpected moments.