Chapter 2 - An Unlikely Encounter

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Anastacias Pov:
The grand hall of the English palace was abuzz with activity as the French King, Louis, and his family arrived for a historic meeting with the English King, Henry, and his family. The purpose of the gathering was to discuss a potential peace treaty between the two nations, with the possibility of uniting their families through marriage.

As the French King's Daughters, and the English Princess, Anastasia, were introduced, it became clear that this was not their first meeting. Louis's eyes lingered on Anastasia, and a faint blush rose to his cheeks. It was evident that he had developed feelings for her during their previous encounter.

Anastasia's curvaceous figure, evident even under her lavish gown, commanded attention. Her plump breasts and supple bottom were hard to ignore, and Louis struggled to keep his gaze from wandering. Meanwhile, King Henry, oblivious to the French King's infatuation, beamed with pride as he presented his daughter to the French royal family as if he actually loved her .

As the evening progressed, Louis found himself growing increasingly anxious. He knew that his son, Prince Adam, was intended to marry Anastasia as part of the peace treaty, but Louis's own heart belonged to the English princess. He tried to compose himself, aware that revealing his true feelings could jeopardize the fragile negotiations between their nations.
position. Anastasia looked at the French King with slight disdain before walking away Anastasia's heels clicked on the stone floor as she made her way through the grand hall, her silk gown rustling softly with each step. She had had enough of the politics and intrigue for one night, and the cool evening air beckoned her to escape.

As she turned a corner, she collided with a tall, striking figure. Apologetic, she looked up to meet the most piercing purple eyes she had ever seen. Platinum blonde hair framed a strong, chiseled face, and a warm smile spread across his lips.

"Kye!" Anastasia exclaimed, her eyes widening in surprise. "It's been ages!"

Kye's smile broadened, his eyes crinkling at the corners. "Anastasia! I never thought I'd see you again. You've grown into a stunning woman."

Anastasia's cheeks flushed, but she laughed, feeling a warmth she hadn't experienced in years. "And you've grown into a giant!" she teased, playfully punching his arm.

Kye chuckled, his deep voice rumbling. "I guess I have. But I'm glad I can still tower over you, Ana."

As they hugged, Anastasia felt a sense of comfort and belonging she hadn't felt in years. Maybe, just maybe, this unexpected reunion was the silver lining she needed in this treacherous world of court politics.

"Let's get out of here," Kye said, his voice low and conspiratorial. "I want to hear everything about what's been going on in your life."

Anastasia nodded, feeling a sense of excitement and possibility. She took Kye's arm, and together they navigated the crowds, leaving the grand hall and its intrigues behind.

As they strolled through the castle gardens, the cool evening air carried the sweet scent of blooming flowers and the soft chirping of crickets. The moon cast a silver glow over the lush greenery, and the sound of a distant fountain created a soothing melody. Kye listened intently, his eyes never leaving Anastasia's face, as she told him about her time in France. He gazed at her like she was the most beautiful woman in the world, his expression filled with wonder and admiration.

But as Anastasia began to speak about her father's mistress, her voice dropped to a whisper, and her eyes clouded over with sadness. "She says terrible things about my mother, Kye. That she was a fool, a weak woman who couldn't even keep her husband's love. That I'm just like her, destined to fail and be forgotten."

Kye's expression darkened, his jaw clenched in anger. He took Anastasia's hand, his fingers intertwining with hers in a gentle yet firm grasp. "That's not true, Ana," he said, his voice low and fierce. "You're strong, brave, and beautiful. You're nothing like your father's mistress, and you deserve so much better than to be spoken about in such a way."

Anastasia's gaze met Kye's, and she saw the sincerity and compassion in his eyes. She felt a lump form in her throat as she struggled to hold back tears. "Thank you, Kye," she whispered, her voice barely audible. "Just being here with you makes me feel better."

Kye's thumb stroked the back of her hand, a gentle caress that sent shivers down her spine. "You're safe with me, Ana," he said. "I'll always be here for you, no matter what."

As they walked further into the gardens, the stars beginning to twinkle above them, Kye kept her hand in his, his presence a comforting reminder that she wasn't alone. The sound of their footsteps on the gravel path and the distant music from the castle created a sense of tranquility, a peaceful oasis from the intrigues and politics of the royal court.

As they stood there, hands entwined, the moment felt like it would last forever. But then, the sound of Anastasia's father's voice cut through the air, shattering the tranquility.

"Anastasia, it's time," he said, his voice firm but laced with a hint of annoyance. "Your future husband awaits."

Anastasia's heart sank, and she felt a pang of sadness. She didn't want to leave Kye's side, didn't want to face the reality of her arranged marriage.

"I have to go," she whispered to Kye, her eyes welling up with tears.

Kye's expression turned somber, and he nodded. "I know," he said. "But promise me you'll stay strong, Ana. Don't let them break you."

Anastasia nodded, feeling a lump form in her throat. She took one last look at Kye, memorizing the sight of him, before turning to follow her father.

As she walked away, she felt Kye's eyes on her, felt his presence lingering in her heart. She knew she would carry him with her, no matter where life took her.

But for now, duty called. She steeled herself and followed her father into the grand hall, where her future husband waited. The thought sent a shiver down her spine, but she pushed on, determined to face whatever lay ahead.

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