Forbidden Love✧⁠*⁠。

Episode 4

Santa made his way through the castle’s grand halls, a trail of warm candlelight following him. He reached his bedroom, a spacious chamber adorned with heavy tapestries and intricate carvings on the walls. With a sigh, he crossed the room, collapsing onto his bed and staring up at the gilded ceiling, his mind drifting to the familiar frustrations of royal life. Moments later, the quiet of his room was interrupted by a gentle knock, and his sister, Becky, slipped inside.

"Why did Father want to see you?" Santa asked, propping himself up on his elbows.

Becky rolled her eyes dramatically as she made her way to the bed. "Oh, the usual," she groaned, flopping down beside him. "A reminder about how a princess is supposed to act, apparently. I mean, I only woke up a little late, and he acted as if I’d ruined the kingdom!"

Santa chuckled, but there was a hint of sympathy in his smile. He knew Becky felt just as constrained by the royal expectations as he did. He sighed, his gaze drifting to the dimming sky outside. "Sometimes, I just don’t understand him," he murmured. "Why does he have to be so strict about every little thing?"

"Tell me about it," Becky replied, her voice tinged with a mix of exhaustion and defiance. The two lay in silence for a moment, the weight of their shared feelings filling the room.

Finally, Santa stirred, realizing that night was approaching. "It’s almost dinnertime," he said, turning to her. "We should probably freshen up and get ready."

Becky nodded, stretching as she got to her feet. "You’re right. Meet you at dinner." With a small wave, she made her way out of the room, leaving Santa alone once more.

Santa headed to his bathroom, He drew himself a warm bath in the tub, sinking into the water and letting the heat relax his muscles, washing away the weight of the day. After some time, he stepped out, wrapping himself in a plush robe before heading to his walk-in closet.

Inside the closet, Santa ran his hand over his collection of royal attire, each piece tailored and intricately embroidered. He chose a deep blue tunic, embellished with silver accents along the sleeves and collar, paired with dark trousers and leather boots. The outfit was formal but comfortable enough for a family dinner, and the color complemented his complexion.

As he fastened the silver clasps on his tunic, a gentle knock echoed from his door. "Your Highness," Namtan’s soft voice called. "Dinner is almost ready."

Santa adjusted his tunic one last time, then called back, "Thank you, Namtan. I’ll be right there." With a final look in the mirror, he stepped out of his room and made his way down the grand staircase, his footsteps echoing in the vast halls.

The dining hall was an impressive sight, with long, heavy curtains framing the windows and a crystal chandelier casting a warm glow over the table. His father, King Adun, and his mother, Queen Laila, were already seated at the head of the table, their regal postures a reminder of the authority they held. Santa took his seat, nodding respectfully to his parents, and soon Becky joined them, settling into her seat across from Santa with a quick, knowing smile.

Moments later, servants appeared, carrying silver trays laden with dishes. The aroma of roasted meats, warm bread, and fresh herbs filled the room as they placed the food before the royal family. As they began their meal, King Adun cleared his throat, his voice carrying the firm tone they had both come to expect.

"Tomorrow morning, we will take a stroll through the village," he announced, glancing between Santa and Becky. "It’s time to check on the state of the kingdom and meet our subjects."

Santa looked up, trying to keep his face neutral. "Do we have to come as well, Father?"

Queen Laila’s gaze softened as she looked at him. "Yes, of course. You’re both part of the royal family, after all. It’s important for our people to see and know you."