"Eclipse"

CHAPTER 11:NICOLE SAVOY POV

I had set up the roof beautifully. The roses were in check. The candles were lit and casted a soft glow. I was just waiting for Prince Ford's arrival.

As he entered, I felt my heart skip a bit. He was beautifully dressed in a deep royal blue suit adorned with intricate gold embroidery along the cuffs. Gold complimented his skin, While each step he took, he made the moonlight kissed his skin, highlighting the warmth and depth of his bronzed skin.

Though most of his face was hidden by the mask, his royalty was visible in his posture and grace. He was taller than me and had a bigger build, but somehow, it only accentuated his looks.

“ Your Highness in front of your radiance tonight even the stars seem to dim.” I complimented him.

“ Thank you for your kind words, Your admiration humbles me.” He replied as he sat down.

I took my seat after him. I could feel the tension in the air even when the servants were serving spaghetti and wine. Was it a mistake to choose simplicity tonight?

I thought of lightening the mood with a joke after the servants left.

“ Your Highness, do you know what to call a fake spaghetti?” I asked.

He looked at me clueless.

“An impasta!” I revealed excitedly.

He chuckled politely, but the atmosphere remained hollow.

Maybe the next one would hit the spot.

"What did the grape say when it got stepped on?" I asked.

"I must confess, I am unfamiliar with the answer," Prince Ford replied.

"Not to worry, it just simply let out a little wine[whine]," I offered, hoping for a genuine laugh.

The prince did laugh, but I didn't feel it was genuine, so I stopped my jokes trail.

If my best ones couldn't hit the mark, I couldn't place my expectations on the backup ones. Yesterday, they did seem to work well, but I guess I have to up my game if I want to impress the prince.

I chose to remain silent for some time. I felt like we were being watched, so I turned around. It was weird finding no one.  I could have swore I knew there was someone there.

When I turned back around, I was horrified to see the prince's royal suit ruined by the spaghetti sauce.

I must have hit the table while turning around.

“I beg your pardon Prince Ford. I swear I didn't mean for this to happen.” I apologised. I felt very guilty for ruining the dinner.

“It's not a big deal, Prince Nicole, but I think we will have to end our dinner tonight here. I had fun, and I look forward to next time. He said as he left.

I had a feeling that none of what he said was true. It was a big deal, and he for sure had no fun tonight. But I have to make sure this was not the last time I met him.

Descending to the garden, I berated myself for the blunder.

How could I let such a thing happen? This all happened because I wasn't well aware of Prince Ford's likes and dislikes. I must ask Estelle to gather Intel.

“Prince Nicole”

I turned around to see Prince Rufus Kinston standing. I had only seen him at the royal court during that unfaithful day.

“Greetings Prince Rufus” I said while bowing in courtesy.

“Don't worry about it, Prince,” he said reassuringly. “ Shall we talk informally?”

“ I beg your pardon. But you are three years senior to me. It would be rude for me to call you by your first name.” I said.

“Not if I insist,” he said playfully.” Anyways, I have been trying to get close to you for some time now. I understand you have to impress my brother so why not come to me in your free time. I could tell you a lot about his likes and dislikes.”

“That would be perfect.” I said “Thank you so much.”

“I would be glad to help. Though I must go now.” He said. “ I will give you some privacy now. Feel free to contact me.”

I saw as he left. Rufus might just be the thing I need to impress Prince Ford.