The Commoner's Princess

5

Miranda quickly changed back into her clothes and left the town's clothes on the floor of the tunnel. She opened the latch and walked into the library closing it quickly.

Walking over to a chair she got on and stretched out grabbing a random book and laying it on her chest.

When she heard footsteps, she closed her eyes and pretended to be asleep.

"Your Highness, there you are," Lady Caroline burst as she walked through the doors of the library.

"Oh, hi," Miranda said softly opening her eyes. "I thought I was going to take a nap but then I was restless. I came into the library to read only to just fall asleep here," she chuckled.

"You should inform us when you change locations."

"My mistake will do,"

"Prince Tucker requests that you join him for the opera show tonight,"

"He could have asked."

"Hmm?"

"Why is he the only one that does not get to be a gentleman? And everyone allows it." 

Ben smiled to himself randomly as he walked back through town. He walked through the market and bought olives, cheese, bread, and dried meat. He spent time picking out different fruits and vegetables. For dessert, he decided on fried fig pastries. After grabbing a smoked turkey leg he put everything into a basket.

Hoping Miranda would like the impromptu picnic idea.

Inside of the opera house. The chandeliers casted a nice warm glow. Many people were lingering in the foyer and all seemed to be in polite conversations. Miranda's gown was crimson red and caught the eye of many.

"Do not embarrass me tonight,"

"I think you just being beside me is all the embarrassment I need. So do not fret about me embarrassing you. You've done enough for the both of us." She scuffed holding a small tight smile.

"You know you actually fascinate me, Miranda. The hard to get attitude is working for you."

"Pardon me? I did not realize you were trying to get anything."

"Most girls are at my beck and call. They swoon when I entered but you. You pretend to not care."

"Did it ever occur to you that you might not be swoon-worthy? See these other ladies want a title. I on the other hand already have one. If this wasn't already sealed. I would not even be in the same proximity of you."

"Good thing you are already mine." He returned leading her over to a group of men and women.

"May I present Princess Miranda of Celestria," Tucker announced as he gestured towards Miranda with a flourish. "She has graced us with her presence this evening."

Miranda dipped into a graceful curtsey, her eyes bright with anticipation as she greeted each guest in turn. "It is a pleasure to meet you all" she murmured, her voice soft.

The courtiers offered their greetings with nods and smiles, their eyes flickering with curiosity as they regarded Miranda with polite interest.

"Welcome to our humble gathering, Your Highness," one of the church elders said. "We are honored to have you join us this evening."

"Indeed, it is a rare delight to see such beauty grace our presence," another courtier added, his eyes lingering on Miranda with a mixture of admiration and intrigue.

Tucker's smile widened at the flattery, his pride evident as he regarded Miranda with a possessive gleam in his eye. "Thank you, gentlemen," he said graciously. "But it is I who am honored to have such a charming companion by my side."