The duke's obsession with the three princes

Chapter 4: The Garden Encounter

The palace gardens were a sprawling oasis of vibrant blooms and lush greenery, a serene escape from the rigid formality of royal life. It was a space where the siblings often found solace from their responsibilities, a place where laughter mingled with the sweet scent of flowers. However, on this particular afternoon, the garden felt like a battleground, and Alistair was in the spotlight.

With the sun casting a warm glow over the meticulously manicured hedges, Alistair stood tall in the center of the garden, hands tucked confidently into the pockets of his tailored trousers. He was the epitome of regal composure, his expression stoic yet thoughtful as he observed the play of light among the petals. His presence commanded respect; even the birds seemed to quiet in his company.

Cedric had sought refuge here, hoping to escape the chaos that was Alaric. The duke’s relentless pursuit had made the once-peaceful environment feel stifling. He wandered amongst the blossoms, plucking a few flowers to distract himself, but his mind was still swirling with thoughts of Alaric's intrusive charm.

Alistair turned as he sensed Cedric’s unease. “You know, Cedric,” he began, his voice steady and calm, “it’s perfectly fine to avoid confrontation. But sometimes, you have to stand your ground. You have a voice, use it.”

“I know,” Cedric replied, brushing his fingers along the delicate petals. “But he makes it so hard. He’s… overwhelming.”

Alistair chuckled, his lips curling into a faint smile. “Overwhelming? Yes, I suppose he is. But that’s precisely why you need to assert yourself. Show him you won’t be pushed around.”

Before Cedric could respond, the unmistakable sound of approaching footsteps echoed through the garden. Alaric sauntered into view, a confident swagger in his step. He wore a bright, tailored jacket that accentuated his figure, the colors vibrant against the greenery of the garden. His dark eyes sparkled with mischief as he caught sight of the two princes.

“Ah, the royal siblings in their natural habitat,” Alaric declared, sweeping his arms wide as if to embrace the garden itself. “How delightful! A perfect day for… a bit of adventure, wouldn’t you agree?”

“Adventure? What do you have in mind?” Alistair replied, crossing his arms, his demeanor unyielding.

Alaric’s grin widened as he moved closer. “Why, an exploration of the garden’s secrets, of course! I’ve heard whispers of hidden treasures amidst the blooms. Care to join me on this quest?”

Cedric exchanged a glance with Alistair, feeling a mix of intrigue and trepidation. “Hidden treasures?” he echoed, his voice betraying his curiosity despite his reservations.

“Indeed! Perhaps a hidden fountain or an elusive flower that only blooms under the light of a full moon!” Alaric proclaimed, his eyes alight with enthusiasm. “What say you, princes? Shall we indulge in a little adventure?”

Alistair remained skeptical, his brow furrowing. “I think I’d prefer to keep my feet on solid ground, Alaric. But Cedric may wish to accompany you. Isn’t that right, brother?”

Cedric hesitated, glancing between Alistair and the duke. “I… uh…”

“Splendid! Then it’s settled!” Alaric clapped his hands together, his excitement palpable. “Come along, Cedric. I promise to keep you safe from any lurking dangers… or at least, I will try.” He winked, a playful challenge in his gaze.

Cedric felt a rush of warmth at the duke’s charm, though apprehension gnawed at him. “I really don’t know if this is a good idea…”

Alaric stepped closer, lowering his voice in a conspiratorial whisper. “Trust me, dear prince. The world is far too beautiful to spend all your time hiding in corners. Besides, you’ll thank me later when you discover the wonders of this garden.”

With a reluctant nod, Cedric found himself drawn into the adventure. Alistair watched with a mixture of concern and admiration as his brother began to follow the duke deeper into the garden.

“Stay close, Cedric!” Alistair called after him, his tone firm yet laced with an underlying worry.

As they walked through the winding paths lined with fragrant flowers, Cedric felt the tension of the previous days beginning to ebb. Alaric, despite his perverted charm, had a way of making the world seem enchanting. The sunlight filtered through the leaves, casting playful shadows as they explored.

“So tell me, Cedric,” Alaric began, his voice smooth and inviting. “What do you desire most? Beyond the duties of a prince and the expectations placed upon you?”

Cedric blinked, caught off guard by the question. “I just want to… I don’t know, be myself. To find my place without being judged.”

Alaric nodded, his expression softening. “A noble wish. You should never allow anyone to define you, least of all a duke with questionable intentions,” he said, smirking. “Embrace your individuality, even if it leads to unexpected encounters.”

As they reached a secluded alcove, the sunlight broke through the trees, illuminating a small stone fountain adorned with intricate carvings. Water danced from its spout, creating a soothing melody.

“Ah, what a hidden gem!” Alaric exclaimed, gesturing dramatically. “Can you believe such beauty was tucked away in this garden?”

Cedric’s apprehension melted away as he approached the fountain. “It is beautiful,” he admitted, captivated by the serene atmosphere.

“Much like yourself, dear prince,” Alaric said, his gaze lingering on Cedric. “There is a light within you that deserves to shine.”

At that moment, Cedric felt a flicker of confidence stir within him. “I appreciate that, Alaric,” he said, turning to face the duke. “But I am not just a pretty face. I have thoughts, dreams, and opinions that matter.”

“Of course, they do! I’m not trying to diminish your worth,” Alaric replied, his voice earnest. “I simply find your struggle against expectations captivating.”

Cedric furrowed his brow. “Expectations?”

“Why, yes! The expectations that come with your title. You are burdened by the weight of the crown before you’ve even worn it,” Alaric explained, stepping closer. “Let’s break those shackles, Cedric! Embrace the freedom to explore who you truly are.”

Just as Cedric began to consider the duke’s words, Alistair’s voice rang out from the garden’s entrance. “Cedric, remember to be cautious!”

The momentary distraction snapped Cedric back to reality. “I will be, Alistair!” he called back, turning his attention to Alaric. “But I also need to remember that I must stand firm in my convictions.”

“Stand firm, indeed!” Alaric echoed, clapping Cedric on the shoulder with a grin. “I look forward to seeing how you wield that conviction in the days to come. It shall be thrilling.”

The sun dipped lower in the sky, casting long shadows across the garden as Cedric felt the weight of the moment settle in. He wasn’t just a prince; he was an individual trying to carve out his identity amidst the chaos. With Alaric’s playful encouragement and his brother’s watchful eye, he felt a sense of possibility blooming within him.

“Perhaps this garden adventure isn’t so bad after all,” Cedric mused, a hesitant smile breaking through the remnants of his uncertainty.

Alaric’s eyes sparkled with mischief. “You have no idea, dear Cedric. We’re just getting started.”

And so, the garden became a theater for exploration, laughter, and unexpected revelations, all while the looming threat of Alaric’s intentions hung in the air—a delightful chaos that promised to keep everyone on their toes.