Hearts at War (AlanxJeff) VI

9

Alan

"Are you sure it can't be any smoother? And the wheels, they won't make too much noise, right?" I asked with concern, closely inspecting the carriage.

"Everything is as per your request, Your Highness. We have spared no effort in following the specifications. It must be the most comfortable carriage in the entire kingdom, if not the world," the servant replied with a bow. "We've added soft cushions and velvet curtains on the windows to shield you from the sun. It's the quietest and smoothest, the most spacious. You can be sure it's perfect for your needs."

I nodded, exhaling a sigh of relief. Jeff had just gotten permission to travel after his accident. Tomorrow was the preliminary meeting where we would present our conditions. If we reached an agreement, the wedding would be in two days, and I would return with him as my prince consort. I had to ensure everything went as smoothly as possible. I especially wanted to make sure the journey would be comfortable. It would be his second long trip since the accident, and I feared he might get nauseous or, worse, get a headache.

"Oh, how elegant!" exclaimed Babe upon seeing all the adjustments made to the carriage. "Something tells me the journey will be pleasant."

"Yes..." I replied, examining the carriage again.

"It's perfect. Relax. I thought you'd be worried about other things, but I see you already assume everything will be a success. Everyone at the palace is stressed about the final touches to the new room and the changes."

"Well, what's the point of trying if you think you won't succeed?" I said, looking at the wheels one last time.

"And the nobles? I was surprised to see they sent you expensive fabrics. How did you get their support?"

"I talked to them about the financial benefits, and that was enough," I said coldly. "Although there are still some with reservations. Now is when we must be most vigilant; there might be attacks."

"I spoke with Way, despite his doubts, he's willing to do anything to help us."

"Your Highness, everything is ready," a servant told me.

"It's time to leave."

The journey felt endless. I tried to focus on the scenery, but I kept thinking about the meeting, the conditions, that strange boy. If everything went well, he would be my responsibility. Babe told me not to complicate things, that he could be my trophy husband. The one who is there to look good and is cared for like the most precious jewel. I just had to keep an eye on him for his protection and our security and ensure he had the luxuries that made him happy. Just that. The rest, my life would continue as always, focusing on running my kingdom. And I couldn't help but feel a tinge of disappointment; could it really be so impersonal and superficial? Not that I actually wanted us to be closer or anything, but it was strange.

We arrived after a journey that felt interminable, as if time stretched on purpose to torture me with anxiety. The road wound through green hills and flower-filled valleys, while the sun began its descent, painting the sky with warm, golden hues. The trees on either side of the path seemed to whisper ancient secrets with the soft murmur of the wind.

Despite the beauty of the surroundings, my mind couldn't stop worrying about the meeting ahead. Finally, we were the first to arrive.

"Alan, Babe! As always, it's a pleasure to see you," exclaimed Pete with a radiant smile as he approached us.

"Dear Pete, it's always a pleasure to see you too," Babe replied cheerfully, giving him a hug.

Pete and I looked at each other and simply nodded, sharing a silent understanding.