The Crowns Gambit

❦ Chapter Thirteen: Charlotte ❦

The warmth of Atlas's lips lingered on mine, a sweet memory I was reluctant to let go of. It was a kiss filled with promise, an unspoken agreement that we would face whatever lay ahead together. My heart raced as I pulled away, breathless and filled with hope. I couldn't deny it any longer—I was ready to embrace this new beginning, but there were things I needed to do first.

"I have to tell Kaius," I said, stepping back and breaking the spell that Atlas's kiss had cast over us. "And Talia. They need to know."

Atlas nodded, understanding flickering in his eyes. "Your father, too. He should know you're happy, especially after everything that's happened."

I took a deep breath, my stomach flipping with both excitement and nervousness at the thought of revealing this new chapter of my life to my best friend and brother. They had been my rocks throughout the chaos of the Crown's Choice. I couldn't wait to see their reactions, but I also knew I needed to tread carefully. My father, King Rhys, would likely have his own opinions about my newfound connection with Atlas.

"Okay, let's do this," I said, determination surging within me. I squeezed Atlas's hand, letting his presence ground me as we walked toward the door.

Stepping out into the hallway felt like stepping into a new world. The castle felt different, brighter somehow, as if the very walls were infused with the warmth of my newfound happiness. I led Atlas through the familiar corridors, each turn and twist echoing with memories of our shared experiences—the laughter, the tears, the moments that had brought us to this point.

"Are you sure you want to tell Kaius first?" Atlas asked, a teasing smile dancing on his lips. "He might not take the news very well that you're choosing a 'troublemaker' over a prince."

I rolled my eyes, suppressing a grin. "Oh, please. He's going to have to deal with it. And besides, Kaius is not just my brother; he's also my friend. He deserves to know."

Atlas laughed, the sound like music to my ears. "You're right. I just like teasing him."

I led the way down the staircase that spiraled down into the main hall, the sunlight streaming through the large windows illuminating the space with a golden glow. As we reached the bottom step, I spotted Kaius sitting at the large wooden table that dominated the room. His head was bent over a stack of parchment, scribbling notes furiously, his brow furrowed in concentration.

"Kaius!" I called out, my heart racing with excitement.

He looked up, his expression shifting from focus to surprise. "Charlotte! What's going on?" He stood, pushing back his chair, the sound scraping against the stone floor echoing in the silence.

"I have something important to tell you!" I said, barely able to contain my enthusiasm.

"Is it about the Crown's Choice? Did something happen?" His tone was serious, the worry in his eyes apparent as he approached me.

"Sort of..." I glanced at Atlas, who stood beside me, radiating an energy that seemed to amplify my courage. "It's about Atlas and me."

Kaius's expression shifted from concern to confusion, his head tilting slightly as he took in our joined hands. "Atlas? As in the same Atlas who's been a thorn in my side throughout this whole process?"

"Exactly!" I said, a grin breaking across my face. "I've chosen him."

Silence enveloped the room as Kaius processed my words. I watched his expression change, confusion melting away to something resembling acceptance—maybe even relief. "You're serious?" he asked, his voice incredulous. "After everything?"

"Yes! After everything," I said, my heart pounding with a mix of anticipation and nervousness. "I love him, Kaius. He makes me feel alive."

A small smile crept onto Kaius's face, his shoulders relaxing as he ran a hand through his hair. "Well, I can't say I'm not surprised. But... you're happy?"