Chapter 8: Farewell Father

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Brielle now sat on the soft grass within the castle's gardens. The Prince sat next to her as she was reminded of her first kiss all those years ago. Her cheeks grew flushed, rendering a laugh from the Prince.

He continued, "After our encounter that night, I went directly to your Father. I implored the possibility of a betrothment. He was hesitant at first, and understandably so. You were so young. I promised him I would wait until you were old enough." He looked at the Princess, who stared at her hands, trying to make sense of everything.

"I wanted to see you again," He continued, "But your father thought you would not respond well. I had thought of you often. When you stumbled on me in the woods, I was shocked it was really you."

"So I really was promised to you long ago?" She peeked up at him through her downcast eyes. "Yes, you were. I am sorry you did not know sooner. I pray you will not hate your father or me for that." He responded and gently placed his hand on hers.

They heard steps running up behind them and turned to find Denco, "Princess, your Father is leaving soon. He is hoping to say farewell."

Brielle stood with the Prince who helped her up, "Farewell? I am going with him, am I not?" Denco looked to the Prince, unsure how to respond. The Prince looked on to his fuming fiance, "Well, we are to be wed soon-"

"Soon, not immediately! I was just made aware! I must go home with him before." She ran to the castle before either man could respond. They followed behind Brielle as she ran to find her Father.

He was talking with a carriage coachman in the castle courtyard when Brielle found him. "Father! Do not leave me here without you!" She hugged her father, crying, as the two men followed behind.

They stood on the steps, looking down on the embrace before them. Denco leaned over, "I told you to go to her earlier."

"Shut it. Your commentary is not helpful." The Prince continued watching.

Claudius pulled back from their embrace and wiped his daughter's eyes, "I am so sorry. I must go back alone. You will be wed, and I will begin sending the troops from Corsinian and Havensoge to secure the border." His daughter continued crying, "I cannot be without you."

Her Father looked at her and said, "You are saving the Kingdom, Brielle. Without you, Romar would have never sent us reinforcements. So thank you for your bravery, my Darling."

He began to enter his carriage, and the Prince came down to help console the Princess. Her Father closed the door, saying, "I will visit you very soon. I love you very much," and the carriage departed from the castle.

The Prince was surprised when the Princess turned to hug him. He thought she would have run away to her room, but he loved the surprise, and he stroked her head while she cried. Valor looked to Denco, who glared at him disapprovingly and made his way inside. The prince and princess stayed where they were for a while more.

She eventually pulled away, tears still in her eyes. "I think I would like to retire for the day," she said, not looking at the Prince.

"I believe that would be best. Let Marci know if you need anything." Brielle nodded and made her way inside the castle. The Prince remained outside, but she eventually found Denco, who helped her find her room in the large castle.

"I am sorry for the shocking news you received today," Denco said as they reached her chambers. I am sure you are feeling overwhelmed."

Brielle just nodded as she continued in, but he lightly grabbed her arm. "If you need anything during your stay, please let me know." She smiled at him in response and closed the door behind her. What an insane day this had been.

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