Forbidden Love✧⁠*⁠。

Episode 17

The morning sun filtered through the grand windows of the castle, casting a gentle glow across Prince Santa’s room. He slowly awoke, stretching as he sat up and let out a soft yawn, he slipped from his bed and made his way to the spacious bathroom.

He filled the tub, letting the warm water and scented oils relax him as he washed away the remnants of sleep. After soaking for a while, he stepped out, wrapped himself in a soft, plush robe, and strolled to his walk-in closet. Rows of finely tailored outfits lined the closet walls, and he selected a comfortable yet elegant ensemble fit for a prince. Once dressed, he glanced in the mirror, adjusting his collar and smoothing down his sleeves with a nod of satisfaction.

As he opened his door and stepped out, he nearly collided with Becky, who was also heading to breakfast. She looked equally refreshed, They exchanged a smile before falling into step together, walking down the grand hallway toward the dining hall.

When they entered the hall, they were greeted by a quiet scene. Becky and Santa shared a glance—perhaps their parents had already left for their journey.

With a grin, Becky and Santa took a seat at the dining table with an assortment of fruits, fresh bread, and warm pastries. They began to eat in companionable silence, savoring the luxury of a breakfast with just the two of them. After a few moments, Becky leaned closer, lowering her voice to a conspiratorial whisper.

"Ta," she murmured, "what if we ask both Est and William to join us today?"

Santa looked up, a bit taken aback. "Both of them?" he repeated, a slight crease of concern appearing on his forehead. "Do you think they’d actually agree? They’re usually so strict about their duty, and one of them always has to stay behind to guard us."

Becky shrugged with a playful smile. "Maybe, but I think it would be nice for them to spend some time together too. Usually, one of them is left behind here, and they get lonely. Besides, with both of them around, it’ll feel more like… an adventure." She raised her eyebrows in a hopeful plea.

Santa smiled, softening to her suggestion. "Alright, maybe you’re right. It couldn’t hurt to ask," he said, chuckling at Becky’s mischievous expression. He could sense her excitement and knew how much it would mean to her to share this day with both of their trusted friends.

As they continued their breakfast, Becky leaned in again, her tone more serious this time. "Yesterday, I was so sure Father suspected something," she admitted, her voice barely above a whisper. "He was asking all those questions about whether we’d snuck out…"

Santa nodded in agreement, a worried look flickering across his face. "I felt the same way. I thought for sure we’d given ourselves away. We’re lucky Mother was there to deflect some of his questions. But… do you think Father will figure it out? I mean, he’s already suspicious."

Becky sighed, glancing around to ensure no one was listening. "I hope not," she said softly. "As long as we’re careful, I think we’ll be alright. We just have to act like nothing’s different, like we’re just going about our usual routine."

Santa nodded, still looking a bit uncertain. "Yes, you’re probably right. But it’s strange to think how close we came to getting caught. Father’s already on edge about us… we just have to make sure we don’t give him any more reason to doubt us."

With a final nod, they shared a silent understanding, their determination strengthening as they finished their breakfast.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The morning light streamed through the kitchen windows as Perth sat down to breakfast with his mother, Ariya, and his sister, Freen. Ariya had prepared a simple but comforting spread of fresh fruits, warm rice, and vegetable soup. She smiled at her children as they joined her, noting the excitement in their faces, especially in Perth’s, who was almost humming with energy.