Everything for the throne

Love?

Alice walked down the hallway, lost in thought, when she suddenly heard a call and turned around to see Felix approaching her.

Prince Felix: Uh, well... I forgot to give you this...

Felix, with a hint of embarrassment, handed her a pair of earrings with black marble hanging down. Alice lifted the earrings in the air before making a comment.

Alice: Did you not purchase another pair of earrings with green marble at the village?

Alice glanced at his pocket, causing Felix to blush surprisingly. Looking at the flushed Felix, Alice chuckled.

Prince Felix: Is there anything that can escape your sharp eyes?

Felix, trying to change the subject, attempted to leave but knowing his intention, Alice commented, making Felix stand stunned at his place.

Alice: She isn't a noble, is she?

Prince Felix:.....Are you spying on me?

He asked, finding it unbelievable that someone knew about his lover, a commoner from the village.

Alice:  I frequently notice a faint fragrance of a flower when you are nearby... and I'm certain that the flower isn't found around the palace or in the city.

Felix glanced at Alice in disbelief. Disregarding the man who was still coming to terms with the fact that his secret was revealed, Alice walked away towards her room

Alice: Anyways, thanks for the gift.... brother Felix...

Upon entering her room, Alice ignored May, who was preparing her bed, and instead walked towards the mirror. She sat on the chair, staring at the earrings.

Alice: Have you ever fallen in love, May?

May: I didn't have time for those fantasies.

Alice: "fantasy" surely it's a fantasy.

May was surprised by her lady discussing things she had never considered important before.

May: Can I know why my lady is asking about 'love' all of a sudden?

Alice: I'm just pondering whether it's love itself or the person we love that holds the significance. What do you think?

May, having completed her tasks, gazed at her lady with a blank expression. She responded without displaying any emotion.

May: My lady seems to be tired. I will excuse myself. Have a good rest, your highness.

Upon May's departure from the room, Alice chuckled before reclining on her bed.

Alice: Every time I bring up love, she claims to be I'm tired... sigh! It feels like I'm truly exhausted... so much has happened tonight.

As Alice closed her eyes, she drifted to sleep the very next moment.