beyond the veil

chapter 11

As the whole city bustled with preparations for Crown Prince Rowan's engagement with Rose, Neon found herself immersed in the excitement of the upcoming event. It was her first engagement to attend as a sister, and she was determined to make it memorable for Rowan.

However, amidst the flurry of activity, a pang of loneliness tugged at Neon's heart. She couldn't help but miss her mother and Lily, wishing they could be there to share in the joyous occasion. "Mother will be disappointed I haven't found a lover, not even in another world. Hopeless me," she thought to herself, a hint of sadness clouding her enthusiasm.

But Rowan's presence beside her chased away her worries, his unwavering support filling her with determination. She was focused on making Rowan's engagement the best day of his life, wanting nothing more than to see him happy.

"Don't overwork yourself, dummy," Rowan chided gently, appearing beside her and patting her head with affection.

Neon grinned up at him, her eyes sparkling with excitement. "Well, I can't help it. It's my favorite brother's big day, after all," she replied, a playful glint in her eyes.

Rowan's smile softened as he leaned down to kiss her forehead. "I'm glad to have you, little one. But it's time for you to rest," he insisted, concern lacing his words.

Neon shook her head stubbornly, refusing to relent. "No, no, let me help. There's still so much to do," she protested, eager to lend a hand wherever she could.

But Rowan simply shook his head, his expression firm yet gentle. "Looks like I don't have a choice then," he remarked with a chuckle, scooping Neon up into his arms effortlessly.

"Brother, no, let me help. I can walk," Neon protested, squirming in his grasp.

But Rowan held her firmly, carrying her towards her bedroom with ease. "No arguments, little one. You can do it tomorrow," he insisted, his tone leaving no room for negotiation.

As Neon reluctantly surrendered to her brother's insistence, she couldn't help but feel a surge of gratitude for his unwavering care and affection. And as Rowan tucked her into bed, she drifted off to sleep, feeling reassured by the comforting presence of her beloved brother by her side.

The next morning, Neon woke up feeling refreshed and eager to continue helping with the preparations for Rowan's engagement. As she made her way through the castle, she found herself humming with anticipation, her mind buzzing with ideas to make the day even more special for her brother and Rose.

Entering the grand hall, Neon was greeted by a flurry of activity as servants bustled about, putting the finishing touches on the decorations and setting up the banquet tables. Rowan was already there, overseeing the final preparations with a focused expression.

"Good morning, little one," Rowan greeted her with a warm smile as she approached.

"Good morning, brother," Neon replied, returning his smile. "How are you feeling today? Excited for the engagement?"

Rowan's smile widened at the mention of the engagement. "I couldn't be happier," he admitted, his eyes shining with anticipation. "And it's all thanks to you, little one. You've worked so hard to make this day perfect, and I can't thank you enough."

Neon beamed with pride at her brother's words. "It's my pleasure, brother. I just want to see you happy," she said sincerely.

Rowan reached out and squeezed her hand affectionately. "Well, you've certainly succeeded in that, little one," he said, his voice filled with gratitude.

As the day progressed, the castle filled with guests, each one eager to celebrate the love and union of Crown Prince Rowan and Rose. Neon watched from the sidelines, her heart swelling with joy as she witnessed the happiness radiating from her brother and his bride-to-be.