Love Across Kingdoms

A Life-Changing Decision

Kristine paced the room anxiously, her mind racing. The decision she was supposed to make weighed her down heavily. She didn't want to be queen or get married yet, but alas, duty called out to her. As the Prime Minister's daughter, she felt obligated to take up this responsibility, even if she had to sacrifice her happiness or the comfort of her home and friends in America

After much thought, she steeled herself and walked back to the hall to proclaim her final decision. The royal family and Penelope waited there patiently for her answer.

Her hands were shaking uncontrollably due to anxiety, but she tried to hide her fear and sorrow as she took a selfless decision, that changed her life forever. Kristine said, "I'll do it.  But not out of happiness or desire," Kristine said, her voice steady despite the anxiety and pain in her mind. She knew this choice meant losing a part of herself, yet the weight of duty was too great to ignore.

The king let out a sigh of relief, acknowledging the gravity of her decision. "Thank you, Kristine. Your sense of duty is admirable. We are forever grateful to you."

As she scanned the expressions across the room, Prince Claude gave her a soft and gentle smile, while Prince Lee's expression remained unreadable and blank. Kristine felt a pang of anxiety twist in her stomach, but there was no turning back now. 

This was the beginning of a journey she never imagined she would have to take.

Later that afternoon, the king and queen invited Kristine to have tea with them. As she lay the multiple dresses on her bed to choose from, her eyes landed on a present from the queen—a beautiful, subtle, and elegant dress. The moment she tried on the dress, Kristine loved it and decided to wear it to tea with the royals.

In the garden, Kristine found herself seated at a long, ornate table in the middle of the freshly blooming roses. The scent of fresh flowers mingled with the aroma of boiling tea, and an assortment of delicious pastries and finger sandwiches adorned the table. It was an elegant setting, yet Kristine felt like an outsider, a stranger in a place that was going to be her home for the next couple of months. 

"How has life been for you in America?" the queen asked her. 

Kristine hesitantly replied, "It was different," she began. "I built a life there, studied medicine, and became a doctor. It wasn't easy, but I made it work." "I had lovely friends and supportive mentors that guided me through this journey and am grateful to them."

The queen smiled warmly. "You've done well, Kristine. We're proud of you." A feeling of warmth engulfed Kristine but quickly disappeared because of the sorrowful memories of her past. The palace hadn't changed much since her childhood days spent there. A wave of nostalgia hit her, but the betrayal by her father overshadowed all the joy she got from being back in her childhood home. 

Prince Claude's blonde hair shone in the evening sun, engulfing him with bright light, and he curiously asked Kristine about her experience of practicing medicine and its challenges. Kristine relaxed slightly as she spoke about her work, the challenges and rewards of helping others, and the satisfaction of making a difference in people's lives. The royal family listened attentively, and the tension in the room eased for a few peaceful moments.

Prince Claude spoke of his exciting innovations and his diplomatic trips. His eyes shone with a sense of pride as he spoke about his duties and responsibilities as a prince. But Prince Lee was quite reserved and his smile seemed quite artificial. He listened to his brother's stories out of respect but rarely spoke about himself. Kristine noticed this during her conversation with the family and observed how his eyes were clouded due to hurt and sorrow. 

Lady Penelope was a frequent guest at the palace, always taking part in the royal family's outings and tea sessions, and now was Kristine's competitor for the queen's crown. She watched Claude with undisguised admiration. She laughed at his jokes, leaning closer to him as she sipped her tea. She glared at Kristine now and then, a glint of spite and arrogance in her gaze, as if daring her to compete for the prince's attention. Lady Penelope's smile barely concealed her obsession for Claude as she leaned closer to him as if staking her claim on him in front of Kristine.

As tea continued, Kristine saw that Lee always kept to the shadows, one step behind his brother. It was quite clear to her that Lee bore a great burden in silence and wanted to show him that he was not alone in this sorrow. So, after tea, she approached Lee, who was standing in the dim light near the window. 

"Lee?" she said softly, drawing his attention.

He turned to her, his expression guarded. "Yes?"

"I couldn't help but notice... it must be difficult, always being compared to Claude," Kristine said gently.

Lee's eyes flickered with surprise, then softened with a hint of vulnerability. "It is what it is. Claude is the favorite; he's the one people look to. I've learned to accept that."

Kristine reached out and lightly touched his arm, offering a small, comforting smile. "But that doesn't mean your feelings and dreams don't matter. You have your strengths, Lee, and if no one sees them, that's their loss because I see a strong man in front of me. I wish you could see yourself the way I see you."

Lee looked at her with gratitude. "Thank you, Kristine. It's nice to hear that," he said. At that moment, she felt a strong connection with Lee and empathized with the pain he carried. 

As they parted ways, Kristine knew that her journey in Tuleria was only beginning, and the choices she made would shape not just her future, but the future of the kingdom as well.