Royal ties : A Second Chance at love

part 4

Part 4: Palace Intrigue

The days following their reunion passed in a delicate dance of tentative steps. YN and Alexia found themselves navigating both the awkwardness of old wounds and the growing spark of something new. They spent time together in the palace gardens, sharing meals, and talking about everything except their past. It was as if they were trying to build a bridge over the gaps of their history, one conversation at a time.

But life in the royal family was far from simple. As the announcement of their engagement loomed, so did the inevitable intrusion of palace politics and media frenzy. YN, used to the controlled chaos of her entrepreneurial world, now found herself plunged into a different kind of chaos—one that came with expectations and scrutiny from every angle.

The first sign of trouble came when YN was summoned to meet Queen Máxima.

The queen was a regal woman, her sharp eyes softened by a warm smile as she greeted YN in her private drawing room. Despite her outward warmth, YN could feel the unspoken weight of the conversation that was about to unfold. This wasn’t just a casual meeting.

“YN, it’s good to finally sit down with you,” Queen Máxima said, gesturing for YN to take a seat. “I’ve heard so much about your work. You’re quite the impressive woman.”

“Thank you, Your Majesty,” YN replied politely, though she could sense the formality behind the queen’s words.

The queen’s smile didn’t waver, but her tone shifted ever so slightly. “I’m sure you’re aware of how important this engagement is, not just for Alexia, but for the entire country. There are... expectations that come with being part of this family.”

Here it was—the inevitable conversation about duty and sacrifice. YN had been waiting for it, but it still felt like a punch to the gut.

“I understand,” YN said, keeping her voice steady. “I’m committed to doing whatever is necessary to support Alexia and the royal family.”

Queen Máxima leaned forward slightly, her gaze becoming more intense. “I believe you, YN. But this isn’t just about supporting Alexia. It’s about understanding that your life, from now on, will not be your own. Every decision you make, every move you take, will be scrutinized by the public and the press. You’ll be a symbol, a figurehead, and that’s not something to be taken lightly.”

YN nodded, though her mind was racing. She had anticipated this, but hearing it laid out so plainly made it feel more real. Her independent life, her business, her freedom—those things would inevitably take a backseat. She wasn’t just marrying Alexia; she was marrying into the entire monarchy.

“Does Alexia know we’re having this conversation?” YN asked carefully.

The queen’s smile returned, though it didn’t reach her eyes. “Alexia has a good heart, but she’s always been... impulsive. She’s passionate, but she doesn’t always consider the larger picture. That’s why I’m talking to you. You’re not just her partner—you’ll be her grounding force. And I need to know that you’re ready for that role.”

YN felt a flare of defensiveness. “