Unkissed. (Rated R)

46.👑

We ride the car in silence, my thoughts wander to what awaits me in the communities, twiddling my fingers as I assess all sorts of possibilities running vividly in my mind. And what I am to say before the press and the people of my kingdoms land. Dark green trees whipping past the car, along with the earthy green of the grass, each passing figure only further pushes my anticipation.

Time creeping in closer, ensuring the inevitable, but the weight of every faith is rested in my hands -- I glanced down to look at my palms. -- I could not, and I will not fail the innocent, for if I did. My vision began tunneling as I was overtaken by a sudden tremble, and I become nauseated glancing down to my trembling fingers, watching a crimson liquid coat my palm. Oozing down my hand, trailing down my wrist. I lifted my hands higher, watching the crimson liquid trail down to my forearms.

I deeply gulped as I inhaled, knowing this illusion of blood was all in my head, yet the sensation it brings felt so real, justifying the burden I would be carrying If I slip, a burden caused by my so-called husband. And the false accusations that will follow, surely leading everyone to point fingers at me.

I could not win; I never was given the chance, ever since my birth I have been marked and thrown into an abyss where everyone pretends to throw me a ladder. My nose stung as my eyes brimmed with light tears, the path I walk is always bumpy, and everyone around me seeks for my downfall; despite knowing they need me.

"Is everything alright?"

I jolted, dropping my arms, hovering my glossed eyes up to the rearview reflection where his eyes were already on mine exhaling cooly as I muster up my nerves.

"I -I am ok, Thank you. Just a little bit nervous is all." I managed, telling no lies. But under his eyes enhanced the skittish demeanor.

"Shall I park the car for you?"

I lowly giggle, charmed by his consideration, but the sooner I can make it to town, then this hellish moment I am enduring can diminish. "No, thank you." My voice is shying away, a mere whisper against his resonant one.

I shrink in my seat as his eyes still linger on me, moments ago I was worried about how I will appear before the people of the land, and now I am cowering from the glares of my handsome driver.

"Something still troubles you, my queen."

A statement more than a question.

"No, really I am ok."

His hard eyes relax, as if he was amused by my skittish behavior, was he aware? or was I just not hiding it well enough. Then from the distance I avert my eyes to what looks like a crowd of people, gathered in one, after driving for what felt like hours, I have arrived in a community of thousands. Flashes of white light snapping pictures by men in suits, women with sunhats and sundresses mingle amongst each other, and the men with fresh attire and haircuts.

Two little boys run out from nearby bushes and divert their eyes to the approaching black car, and as his little eyes survey the crest of the Royal initials he points over and screams something inaudible, garnering the attention of all.

My chest races as all the judgmental eyes flick over. The men with the cameras race forward with microphones in hand, flocking around like hungry birds to bread, most of them even jumping before the car in hopes to get a glimpse of me.

My bodyguards hand tightened around the steering wheel, his aggravation loud and I could not blame him.

My heart hammers away but keeping my stoicism as he finds a stable parking, and shifts the gear, and our gaze meet once again in the rearview mirror.