Threads of Destiny: A Royal Reunion

Chapter 12: Shattered Dreams

Rapunzel and Eugene were in the library later that night, discussing their next move. Eugene had suggested confronting Hans directly, but Rapunzel wasn't sure if that was the best course of action. They needed more proof—something they could show Anna that would make her see the truth about Hans' deception.

Their discussion was interrupted when one of the castle maids rushed in, breathless and wide-eyed. "Princess Rapunzel, there's something you need to know. Princess Anna... she's... she's engaged!"

Rapunzel shot to her feet, her heart plummeting into her stomach. "Engaged? To Hans?"

The maid nodded, her face pale. "They're planning to announce it at tomorrow's banquet."

Rapunzel felt like the floor had dropped out from under her. She turned to Eugene, who looked equally shocked. "We have to stop this," she said urgently. "We can't let Anna marry him. It'll be a disaster."

Eugene stood as well, his face grim. "We need to talk to her now. Before she does something she can't take back."

They hurried through the castle halls, making their way to Anna's chambers. Rapunzel's heart raced as she imagined the consequences of Anna going through with the engagement. She couldn't let it happen—not when she knew the truth about Hans' plans.

When they reached Anna's room, Rapunzel knocked urgently on the door. "Anna? It's me, Rapunzel. I need to talk to you."

There was a pause, and then the door slowly opened. Anna stood there, her face glowing with happiness, the engagement ring glittering on her finger. "Rapunzel! I have the most amazing news—"

"I know," Rapunzel said, her voice tight. "You're engaged to Hans."

Anna blinked, her smile faltering slightly. "You... you know?"

"Yes, I know," Rapunzel said, stepping into the room and closing the door behind her. "But Anna, we need to talk about this. I don't think Hans is who you think he is."

Anna's brow furrowed, her expression turning defensive. "What are you talking about?"

Rapunzel exchanged a glance with Eugene, who nodded for her to continue. Taking a deep breath, she held out the letter they had found in Hans' quarters. "We found this in his room. He's been plotting to take control of Arendelle. He's been using you to get to the throne."

Anna stared at the letter, her face pale as she read the words. But as she finished, her expression hardened, and she shoved the letter back at Rapunzel. "This is ridiculous. Hans would never do that. He loves me!"

"Anna, please," Rapunzel begged. "I know it's hard to believe, but you have to trust me. Hans isn't who he says he is. He's dangerous."

Anna shook her head, tears welling in her eyes. "No. You're wrong. He's not like that. He's... he's perfect."

Rapunzel's heart broke at the desperation in her cousin's voice. "Anna, I'm only trying to protect you. Please, just listen—"

But Anna wasn't listening. She turned away, her shoulders shaking with silent sobs. "I thought you'd be happy for me. But you're just like everyone else. You don't want me to be happy."

Rapunzel opened her mouth to argue, but before she could, Anna stormed out of the room, leaving Rapunzel standing in stunned silence.