Royal Heartstrings

Chapter 29- A token of gratitude

Valerie's POV:

As I walked through the west wing's hallway, I couldn't help but feel a sense of satisfaction. Yesterday, I had given my parents part of the prize money I won in the cooking competition before they left for Eldrida. The looks on their faces when they saw the money was priceless, and it was nice to be able to support them. I was determined to work hard and see that pride in their eyes again.

I had received the money just in time, and it felt amazing to be able to provide for my loved ones.

My gaze landed on Lord Alex, standing tall in the hallway. I smiled wider, happy to have run into the person I was planning to go meet.

Lord Alex raised an eyebrow at my enthusiastic grin.

"Good afternoon, Lord Alex," I said, approaching him.

He tilted his head, studying me. I'm sure he was surprised by my weird behaviour. Before he could say anything, I presented him with a small, elegantly crafted black and gold box.

"I wanted to give you this," I said. "A token of appreciation for your support during the competition. You helped me win, and I'm really grateful."

His expression turned skeptical. "That's not necessary, Valerie. Besides, I won't be doing it again."

My smile remained unwavering. "No one has ever done something so selfless for me, Lord Alex. This means a lot, even if you don't think so."

He sighed, taking the box. Lifting the lid, he revealed a sleek black pen with his initials, AC, engraved on it.

Lord Alex's expression transformed, his eyes locked onto the pen. For a moment, he just stared.

"I hope this pen brings you successful business deals and signatures that change your life," I said, my smile still in place.

Lord Alex's gaze remained piercing as he looked up at me. I stared back. After a moment, he said softly, "Thank you."

My whole face broke out in a big grin. "You're always welcome," I replied.

He continued to stare, his expression unreadable. I wondered what he was thinking.

Just then, I heard my name. "Valerie."

I turned to see Mira and Prince Nova approaching us. Mira was smiling slyly, while Prince Nova looked livid, his eyes narrowing at Lord Alex.

"Valerie," Mira said, "I'm so glad we ran into both of you."

I raised an eyebrow, wary. "What?"

Mira glanced at Prince Nova before focusing on me. "I was thinking, why don't the four of us go out together? It'll be fun!"

My eyes widened in surprise.

"Definitely not," Lord Alex said, his tone firm.

Mira frowned. "And why is that, Lord Alex?"

I noticed she spoke as if they were friends - which I was sure they weren't.

"Firstly, I don't even know you properly," Lord Alex replied. "And secondly, I have better things to do with my time."

Mira looked at me almost pleadingly. I understood. She wanted to spend time with Prince Nova but didn't know how to ask. That's why she arranged this.

"Come on, Lord Alex, Prince Nova already agreed," Mira said, "it'll be—"

"No," Lord Alex interrupted, his tone final.

Prince Nova's expression remained tense, his eyes still narrowed at Lord Alex.