The Invisible Prince

Chapter 58 - Guarded Glances (Part 5)

Arden's POV-

Arden couldn't remember when he had fallen asleep, but he woke to the unfamiliar comfort of his father's bed. On either side of him were Arien and Arjen, their sleeping faces calm and serene.

'Strange... This isn't my bed...'

He pushed himself up, the rustling of the blanket stirring his siblings awake. They rubbed their eyes groggily, yawning in unison.

"Arden?" Arjen's voice was soft with sleep as he blinked at his younger brother.

Arden met his gaze, his expression impassive as usual. "Brother... why am I here?"

Arjen sat up beside him and stretched before replying. "You fell asleep while we were playing yesterday. We asked Father if you could stay, and Brother Alec gave his permission too."

"I see..." Arden murmured, taking in the explanation.

As if on cue, the maids approached, their steps light but purposeful. One of them curtsied before speaking. "Shall we help you prepare for the day, your imperial highnesses?"

Arjen nodded, and the three siblings were whisked away to be bathed and dressed. The maids worked quickly, tugging and turning Arden as they readied him. By the end, he emerged slightly disheveled, staggering from their efficiency, though his siblings seemed unaffected.

Once reunited, another maid stepped forward with a formal bow. "Your imperial highnesses, His Majesty has granted you permission to walk in the garden for three to four hours daily. Additionally, the number of maids assigned to follow you has been reduced to four, who will remain at a distance."

'Is this because I mentioned disliking crowds? How... considerate,' Arden thought, somewhat surprised.

Their brief freedom in the garden was a rare delight. They strolled among the flowers, chatting and marveling at the vibrant blooms. Arden found himself drawn to the vivid colors, much like his brother Alec often was during their walks.

As they played near a cluster of roses, a man suddenly stepped into their path. Startled, Arden stumbled and fell backward.

"Oh no. Excuse me," the man said smoothly, extending a gloved hand toward him.

Arden hesitated, his instincts screaming caution. Instead of accepting the stranger's help, he reached for Arjen's hand, gripping it tightly as his brother helped him to his feet.

'There's something off about him. I shouldn't trust him.'

Peeking out from behind Arjen, Arden studied the man carefully. His warm smile faltered for a fraction of a second before he tucked away his outstretched hand and adjusted his expression.

"Are you alright, your imperial highness?" the man asked, his voice calm but hollow.

Arden nodded slowly, remaining behind his brother.

The man bowed deeply. "I am the head of the Rosea Ducal family, and this is my son." He gestured to the boy standing silently at his side.

Both knelt before the imperial children. "Greetings to Your Imperial Highnesses, the princess and princes," the duke said formally.

Arden's unease deepened as he caught sight of Arien's enraptured expression, her eyes locked on the duke's son.

'I don't trust them. But... Arien seems charmed by the boy. What should I do?'

[484 words]