Royal Heartstrings

Chapter 32- A bad news

Prince Nova's POV:

We finally returned to the palace after our enchanting trip, and I walked Valerie to her room, savoring every moment. Our time together had been a blissful escape, and I wasn't ready for it to end.

As we landed in Calon City earlier, my father had called, requesting my presence. His unexpected summons weighed heavily on my mind. What did he want to discuss? I saw Valerie into her room, ensuring she was settled before taking my leave.

With a sense of trepidation, I made my way to my father's office. I knocked and entered, surprised to find Cadoc standing before my father's desk, his face pale.

My father's voice was thunderous. "I'm ashamed of you! Get out! Get out of my sight immediately!"

Cadoc shakily bowed and turned to leave. Our eyes met, and he shook his head subtly before hurrying out. My eyebrows furrowed, concern etched on my face.

My father muttered to himself, but I caught the words: "One fooling around with a servant, the other frolicking around with the girl his brother is supposed to marry." My eyes narrowed, instincts on high alert. Was he talking about me and Valerie?

I approached my father, bowing respectfully. "What's going on, Father?"

His expression darkened. "What's going on? You're seriously asking me that, Nova?"

I felt a surge of surprise. "Yes, Father. I don't understand."

He reached into his desk drawer, pulling out a stack of photographs. He slammed them onto the desk. My eyes widened as I took in the images: Valerie and I in Selonia, our arrival, the café, our kiss by the lake, and our hotel entrance. My blood ran cold.

"Where...have you been stalking us?" I demanded, outrage mixing with fear.

My father's voice dripped with disdain. "Yes, and I'm glad I did. I can't believe what I am seeing. This is what you've been doing all this time? I'm so ashamed of you."

I shook my head, defensive. "Father, she's amazing. She isn't like other girls. She's—"

He cut me off, his tone venomous. "Right, she isn't like other girls. She's a servant, not worth your attention."

My fists clenched, anger boiling within me. I took a deep breath, my voice firm. "Father, you married for love. Mother wasn't rich, nor from a prestigious family. Why can't I do the same? Why can't I marry the girl I want?"

His eyes softened slightly. "We can't keep doing that, Nova. We need strong alliances, strong bonds. That girl...she doesn't have it. Try to understand, my son. I want what's best for this kingdom."

I whispered, my voice laced with pain, "And not for me."

His face hardened again. "To be a good king, you have to be willing to sacrifice your happiness."

I bit my lip until it drew blood. I knew he was right, but I couldn't leave Valerie. Not even if I tried. "I...I can't," I said.

His glare intensified. "Then I'll send her away."

My eyes widened, my heart literally stopping. "You can't."

He stood up, his voice cold. "I will." We locked gazes, the air thick with tension. He broke the stare, shaking his head. "You and Cadoc are the same. How did I even raise you guys? He can't seem to stay away from Mira."

I knew Cadoc loved Mira, and I was happy for my brother.

I stepped forward, determination burning within me. "No matter where you send Valerie, I'll find her. Even if it's to the end of the earth or out of this world."