Forbidden Love✧⁠*⁠。

Episode 3

In the early morning, Santa woke up with a start, the first soft rays of sunlight filtering through his bedroom windows. Usually, one of the maids would gently wake him, but today he was up before they arrived. The quiet morning felt different somehow, as if inviting him to enjoy a moment of stillness. He stretched and made his way to his private bathroom, connected directly to his bedroom—a luxury reserved only for the royal family. The room was adorned with marble fixtures, gold trim, and delicate, polished tiles, giving it a serene, almost regal atmosphere.

Santa filled the bathtub with warm water, infused with herbs and oils that floated across the surface, a morning ritual that left him refreshed. Sinking into the water, he let his thoughts wander as he relaxed, feeling the weight of the expectations he lived under slip away, if only briefly. After a while, he stepped out, drying off and wrapping himself in a plush robe, feeling rejuvenated.

He headed to his walk-in closet, choosing a crisp, white linen shirt with a high, buttoned collar and a waistcoat in a muted shade of emerald green that complemented his royal lineage. His trousers were fitted, tailored precisely to his measurements, and he slipped on a pair of polished black shoes. He fastened a thin gold chain—a gift from his sister Becky—around his neck, the only adornment he wore. Satisfied, he took a moment to straighten his collar and composed himself.

Just as he was about to leave his room, Tad, one of the palace's most trusted attendants, opened the door. "You’re already awake, Your Highness," Tad said, with a hint of surprise in his voice.

Santa smiled. "Yes, Tad. I woke up a bit earlier than usual. Have you seen if my sister is awake?"

Tad inclined his head. "I believe Namtan went to check on her, Your Highness. She should be ready soon."

Nodding, Santa made his way down the grand staircase, his footsteps echoing softly against the marble steps. At the bottom of the stairs, he found his parents—the King and Queen—already seated in the dining hall, awaiting breakfast. His father, a stern man with silver-streaked hair and piercing eyes, acknowledged Santa with a nod, while his mother, the Queen, gave him a warm smile.

"Good morning, Father. Good morning, Mother," Santa greeted, bowing slightly.

His mother, Queen Laila, smiled approvingly. "You're up early today, Santa. That’s unusual for you."

Santa returned her smile with a nod. "Yes, I thought I’d try something different this morning." His father, King Adun, merely glanced at him, nodding in mild acknowledgment, his expression as stoic as ever.

King Adun’s gaze shifted to the staircase. "And your sister?"

"I believe she’s awake, Father," Santa replied calmly. "She should be down soon."

Just then, Becky descended the staircase, her steps slightly hurried. "Good morning, Father. Good morning, Mother," she greeted with a quick smile.

Her mother returned her greeting with a nod, but her father’s brow furrowed as he observed her. "You woke up late again, Becky. A princess should be prompt and disciplined. Remember that."

Becky lowered her gaze briefly. "Apologies, Father. I’ll do better."

Santa gave her a sympathetic look as they took their seats. The maids brought out the breakfast dishes—a spread of freshly baked bread, delicate pastries, and fruits arranged in silver bowls. Their family dined in silence, a rule instilled by their parents, as speaking during meals was considered impolite in the royal household.

As the quiet meal continued, Earth, the castle steward, entered, bowing before addressing the King and Queen. "Your Majesties, the representatives from the northern territories are awaiting your audience in the east wing. They have important matters to discuss."