In Favour |Clara Walseworth|

Can you hear the people ? ~ Chapter 7

Germany, 1818.

The crisp air of early spring whipped through the open carriage, invigorating Clara as she leaned against the plush cushions, watching the verdant landscape blur by. Quaint villages dotted the countryside, each stop promising a glimpse into the lives of the people she was meant to represent as a princess. It had been a year since her marriage to William, and while she had grown accustomed to her role, she still felt the weight of expectation resting on her shoulders.

Beside her, William spoke animatedly, a charming smile plastered on his face as he detailed the upcoming festivities in the next village. "They say the local brew is quite... robust," he said, a cocky grin dancing on his lips. "I'll make sure to sample it—though I'll have to spare my subjects from the horror if it turns out to be dreadful." He chuckled, clearly enjoying his own joke. Clara smiled back but couldn't help but feel a twinge of disappointment at his dismissive attitude toward the common people. "Perhaps it would be wise to engage with them, dear," she suggested gently, her heart yearning to connect with those she would serve. "They are excited to see us, and we should show them we care." William shrugged, his nonchalance evident. "They're not the ones who'll be toasting my name in the grand halls, Clara. I doubt they'll remember me after the festivities are over." He leaned back in the seat, arms crossed behind his head, radiating an air of entitlement.

Across from them, Frederick's gaze was icy as he observed his younger brother. There was a subtle tension in his posture, an unmistakable disapproval simmering just beneath the surface. Clara met his eyes, and for a moment, she thought she saw something softer lurking within his stoic demeanor—perhaps a hint of kindness or understanding. Ana sat beside Frederick, her dark hair framing her face . She looked poised and elegant,"You'd do well to remember that these appearances matter, William," she remarked sharply. "A little humility wouldn't hurt you." William rolled his eyes, feigning disinterest. "And why would I bother? They're not my peers. I'm a prince; I have more important matters to attend to." He leaned closer to Clara, a conspiratorial smirk crossing his face. "Besides, I'm sure you'll charm them enough for the both of us."

"I hope you're not underestimating the importance of our role here," Frederick said, his tone cool and clipped. "It's essential we maintain a connection with the people, even if some of us don't understand it." His eyes narrowed slightly, a challenge lurking in his words, as if he were daring William to reconsider his dismissive attitude. Clara caught the tension in the air between the brothers but remained undeterred. "Engaging with them shows we're interested in their lives," she interjected, hopeful. "It reminds them that we are not just figures in a palace, but part of their community." William shrugged again, unwilling to entertain her point further. "You're far too idealistic, my dear Clara. They care more about the next festival than the thoughts of a prince." He turned his attention back to the view outside, the confidence in his tone a thin veneer over a deeper insecurity.

As they approached a small village, Clara felt a flutter of excitement. Children played in the streets, their laughter ringing out, while vendors called out to attract the attention of passersby. Clara was eager to interact with the locals, to show them the kindness she had come to value in her role as a princess.

Stepping down from the carriage, she was met with curious glances from the villagers. Clara smiled brightly, eager to connect, her heart swelling with warmth. "Hello!" she called out, waving her hand. "It's wonderful to be here with you!" She behaved like an excited child rather than a princess and William could not help but smirk at her presentation. Ana stepped out gracefully, immediately commanding attention with her poised demeanour. Frederick stepped down last, his presence strong yet distant. Clara caught a flicker of warmth in his eyes as he surveyed the villagers, and she sensed that beneath his cool exterior lay a man who genuinely cared for the people.