Maybe One Day

Chapter 4

The grand ballroom of the palace was a spectacle of opulence. Crystal chandeliers bathed the room in warm light, and the air buzzed with the sound of laughter, music, and the rustle of silken gowns. Nobles from all corners of the kingdom had gathered, each hoping to catch the eye of Prince Arran. Ailesse stepped out of the carriage, her heart pounding with a mixture of anger and anticipation.

As she entered the ballroom, heads turned. Her emerald gown shimmered under the chandeliers, and her beauty captivated everyone. She moved gracefully, her every step a calculated part of her plan. She had to find the prince, but she also had to make an unforgettable entrance.

Prince Arran stood at the far end of the ballroom, greeting guests with a polite but weary smile. He was a striking figure, tall and regal, with dark hair and piercing blue eyes. As Ailesse approached, his gaze met hers, and for a moment, the noise of the ballroom faded into the background.

Arran's curiosity was piqued by the mysterious woman who seemed to command the room without effort. He made his way towards her, his heart beating faster with each step. She had noticed his attention and turned away to a young man who had asked her to dance. I felt a mix of and ger and frustration at the bland rejection. I waited patiently while she and the man Lord Killian danced. I felt a rise of jealousy when Killian grasped her waist spun her around in his arms. They were having a conversation and both of them seemed to enjoy it immensely. I felt ready to slap the man when she laughed at something he said. Her voice was like a tinkling of bells. It was the most beautiful voice he had ever heard. He had had enough. He was done waiting so he started walking up to her. He didn't give a damn if Killian was openly glaring at him. When he reached her, he bowed slightly, his eyes never leaving hers.

"Good evening, my lady. I am Crown Prince Arran. May I have the honor of knowing your name?"

Ailesse curtsied gracefully. "The honor is mine, Your Highness. I am Lady Ailesse, recently arrived from a distant land."

"Your beauty is matched only by your grace, Lady Ailesse," Arran said, extending his hand. "May I have this dance?"

Ailesse placed her hand in his, and they moved to the center of the ballroom. As the music began, they glided across the floor, their movements perfectly synchronized. The chemistry between them was undeniable, a spark that neither of them could ignore. Ailesse found herself captivated by Arran's charm and kindness, emotions she had not anticipated.

As they danced, Arran spoke softly. "What brings you to our kingdom, Lady Ailesse?"

Ailesse hesitated, choosing her words carefully. "I seek a new beginning, Your Highness. A place where I can belong and perhaps, find love."

Arran's eyes softened. "I understand the weight of seeking something more. The responsibilities of the crown are heavy, and I too yearn for someone to share them with."

Their dance continued, and Ailesse felt a conflict within her. The more she spoke with Arran, the more she saw a man burdened by his duties and longing for genuine connection. Her plan, once so clear, began to blur at the edges.

In the days following the ball, Ailesse and Arran spent more time together. They walked in the palace gardens, shared meals, and engaged in deep conversations about their hopes and fears. Ailesse found herself drawn to his intelligence, his humor, and his gentle nature. It became increasingly difficult to see him solely as the enemy.

One evening, as they strolled by the moonlit lake near the palace, Arran turned to Ailesse, his expression earnest. "Ailesse, I feel a connection with you that I have never felt with anyone else. You have brought light into my life at a time when I needed it most. I... I am falling in love with you."

Ailesse's heart ached at his words. She had not expected to feel anything for the man she was meant to kill, but she could not deny the emotions that had grown within her. She looked into his eyes, seeing the sincerity and vulnerability there.

"Arran, I... I have feelings for you too," she confessed, her voice trembling. "But there are things about me you do not know, things that could change everything."

Arran took her hands in his. "Whatever it is, we can face it together. I believe in us, Ailesse."

''I hope you do after you hear what I have to say'' I say sadly