When the King of Cinerea is threatened with war at his gates he must host five nations and their eligible heirs to compete for the hand of his daughter, Princess Charlotte. What happens when evil schemes and plots dethroning the crown sneak through...
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I woke early before my studies began. I was prepared for a day of one-on-one outings designed by my suitors to impress me, which seemed unlikely. I doubted that any of them would take the time to do something that would bring me enjoyment. My first outing was not told to me, so the thought of having to face Hans or Buewick first made my skin boil.
"You seem tense, my lady, Leah pointed out as she poured me some tea, and I brushed out my long, wavy hair. She then began putting oils into my hair to make the fragrance follow me all day. Her fingers twisted in my hair, encouraging its natural curl to tighten so it would fall like natural waves in the ocean.
"It is hard to know how to feel about an unknown day and not controlled by my inner circle. It's quite daunting, wouldn't you say?" She nodded in agreement, and I slipped on more casual shoes as she dressed me in a flowy gray gown since I had several hours before any activities would begin.
I decided to go for a walk and watch the castle as it began to stir with the busy bug, at least that's what my father would call it when I was little. I passed by the library, and Marcel was sitting in the corner with books surrounding him. A soft smile spread across my anxious face as I noticed they were books on our kingdom, castle, and traditions.
"You won't find what pleases me in the historical textbooks before you," I called teasingly, leaning slightly against the archway. He stood instantly with a slight bow, dropping one of the books he was reading. My hands rubbed over the books as he scooped up the fallen one. I laughed as I realized the one he had dropped was the traditional dances and their meaning.
Oh please, do not tell me you will choose traditional dance work for our activity." Laughter filled the room as he quickly closed the book, trying to hide his studying and embarrassment.
"What would you like to do, my lady? What brings you joy, especially in times such as these?" He moved closer, and his gaze bore into me with such intensity. I couldn't help but get lost in his beautiful green eyes as a soft smile spread.
"I hope you are not cheating Prince Marcel by asking the princess what activity she'd like to do. Although, I find painting to be quite peaceful and calming in chaotic times." He smiled, but before we could continue such a conversation, I noticed his body become more tense. I turned to follow his gaze and saw Augustine leaning against the archway with other men waiting on him. He seemed upset that I was with Marcel instead of him. I guess he thought he was the only one who got to have these alone interactions.
"Nocheating needed, I have paid attention to know the kind of outing that would please you. Besides, I don't feel the need to show off as some do." Marcel gently kissed my hand before walking past Augustine, brushing against him intentionally. His gesture sent strange shivers down my spine. It was odd; Marcel was so kind, yet I never felt like I could read him.
