Mira's POV:
I smiled at Prince Nova for what felt like the hundredth time since sitting opposite him in his study. Initially, he'd claimed to be busy, but I refused to leave, captivated by his focused expression. As he straightened and sighed, signaling the end of his work, I placed my hands on his desk.
"I'm glad you're done," I said, my voice laced with excitement. "So, would you like to go out?" His mouth opened and closed, as if lost for words. I smiled wider, clarifying, "I mean, just us, a night out... on a date."
Prince Nova's piercing gaze made me shiver. His lips pursed and unpursed, a silent battle raging within. I maintained my smile. Finally, he took a deep breath. "Mira, I have something to tell you."
My brow furrowed, then relaxed into a smile. "Sure, tell me anything."
He tilted his head, hesitation written across his face. Shaking off his doubts, he locked eyes with me. "Mira, don't take what I'm about to say the wrong way." Guilt etched his features, making my heart stutter.
"What do you exactly mean, Your Highness?" I asked.
Prince Nova's words hung in the air. "Valerie and I are—"
I raised a hand, stopping him. "Stop." The word escaped my lips before I could process the emotions swirling within.
Prince Nova's eyebrow furrowed. "What?"
"I already know what you're about to say," I said, my voice steady. Confusion still etched his face. "I know you and Valerie are in love with each other," I revealed. "I've actually known for a while now. I just confirmed it at the amusement park."
Prince Nova's eyes widened, and he stared at me in shock. As the shock dissipated, guilt replaced it. "I'm... I'm sorry, Mira," he said, hesitant. "Please don't hold it against Valerie."
My smile didn't reach my eyes, and Prince Nova noticed. "You, Prince Nova, kept it from me, but it doesn't hurt as much," I began. "Valerie, though... Valerie is my best friend, my best friend for years. She kept it from me, and that hurts more than the thought of her being with you. I expected better from her." Prince Nova couldn't meet my gaze.
"I waited for her to come clean, but she didn't," I continued. "It hurts more than the thought of you two together."
He looked up, concern etched on his face. "Please, Mira, don't blame Valerie. It will hurt her."
My smile vanished. "Don't beg me," I said, icy. "You're in for a ride with me. Regardless of your love for Valerie, that won't stop me from going out with you."
Prince Nova's shock was palpable.
"You know you don't stand a chance with Valerie," I declared. "She doesn't meet your royal standards, and your father will never approve. You are stuck with me, unless you fall in love with someone else – which is pretty unlikely. So, your best bet is me. You should start counting your blessings, your highness," Before he could respond, I stood. "I'll take my leave now. I will be coming tomorrow for our date. Get prepared."
Ignoring his calls, I walked away. They had changed me. For the worst.
I hadn't even reached my room before Valerie's voice called out. "Mira!"
I turned, forcing a smile.
Valerie's bright, toothy grin faltered as she approached. "Mira, is something wrong?" she asked, concern etched on her face.
Normally, I'd lie, continue the charade. But today, anger and hurt boiled over. "As if you would care," I spat.
Valerie's eyes widened. "What? Of course, I care!"
YOU ARE READING
Royal Heartstrings
General FictionFor Valerie Alaric, her family was the most important thing to her. Her bestie, Mira Weldon was also on that list. So that drove her to always make them proud in everything. So when, the royal family, decided to pay a visit to the Weldon home; where...
