Royal Heartstrings

Chapter 31- Peace

Valerie's POV:

I sat still, letting Mira comb my hair with gentle strokes. It was an irony; I was always the one helping Mira get ready. But today, Mira was taking care of me, preparing me for my trip to Selonia with Prince Nova. As she finished, I stood up and slipped into jeans and a cropped off-shoulder dress.

Mira insisted on adding a touch of makeup, highlighting my features with skill. I watched in the mirror as she worked, our eyes meeting in reflection. Her expression was serene, no hint of resentment or jealousy.

I felt a pang of guilt nonetheless, worried that she might still harbor feelings for Prince Nova. But Mira had reassured me yesterday that she would get over it. She'd apologized for her earlier behavior and given her blessing for me to be with Prince Nova. Even claimed she'd be upset if I didn't take this chance.

She had surprisingly been the one to tell Prince Nova that I'd always dreamed of visiting Selonia. Now, it seemed, that dream was becoming reality. Mira handed me a lip gloss. "Perfect," she said, stepping back.

I hugged her tightly, whispering, "Thank you." Mira's support meant everything. She squeezed me back.

I grabbed my duffel bag, and Mira walked with me to the Palace entrance. Prince Nova and Prince Cadoc waited, exchanging quiet conversation. Prince Nova's face lit up with a bright smile as he saw me. I returned it.

After brief pleasantries, it was time to leave. "Ready?" Prince Nova asked.

"Yes," I replied. We'd woken up early to avoid detection, that was my reason but prince Nova's reason was wanting to arrive in Selonia early.

Mira hugged me one last time. "Be happy, Val," she whispered.

I nodded, tears pricking. Prince Nova offered his arm. Let's do this.

A sleek black car whisked us to the airport and we boarded a luxurious private jet, settling into plush leather seats. I couldn't believe I was in a private jet! But as the plane taxied, my nerves spiked.

Prince Nova noticed. "Is this your first time on a plane?" he asked.

I clutched the armrest, avoiding his gaze. "You think?" I replied.

He chuckled. "Are you scared?"

I nodded, my knuckles white.

He took my hand, his touch warm. "I'm here," he said softly. The plane lifted off, and he didn't let go once.

After a while, we landed, and a car picked us up. It was already mid morning. As we drove through the rolling countryside, I gasped in awe. Cottage-core houses, lush green forests and vibrant wild flowers stretched as far as the eyes could see. It really was a marvel. The air smelled like flowers and fresh breath.

We stopped at a cozy cafe, its warm atmosphere inviting. Inside, the cafe was quiet, with only a handful of patrons. However, the manager's eyes widened as he recognized Prince Nova.

"Your Highness," he said with a bow.

Prince Nova smiled. "I'd prefer to keep our visit private, thank you."

The manager nodded, ensuring our anonymity. After eating, prince Nova led me to a vast, sun-drenched field. Tall, golden wheat swayed gently in the breeze, reaching waist-high.

"Wow," I breathed, my hair and clothes billowing in the wind.

Prince Nova smiled. "It's beautiful right?"

I nodded. He pulled out a camera and started snapping shots. I posed, laughing, as he captured every moment.

We rode horses - my first time, played in the grass, and picnicked by a serene lake. Hours passed in blissful haze. As the sun began to set, we settled beside the water. Prince Nova laid his head on my lap, his eyes closing. I stroked his hair, feeling peaceful.