Love's Surprise

Part 2

"Prince Adam, are you sure this is the best choice?" I look at the picture of my bride to be and I can't help but think of those luscious pink lips on mine. She really is beautiful. Her long dark hair flows over her shoulders, and her big blue eyes shine like stars. "I'm sure Pierre. She cannot be allowed to escape. Alert Queen Josephine of her plans immediately." I go back to admiring the young princess who would rather run away with her true love. Her heart is perhaps stronger than I imagined. Even now I can see her years from now being true to her heart before ever listening to reason. Perhaps that is why I have become so determined to marry her. Someday she will understand the choices I've made, but for now I shall simply hope she can forgive me.

I look out the window at the beautiful scenery surrounding the castle. Her kingdom is vivid and full of life. Every tree is overflowing with green gems on its branches. Each blade of grass is filled with vitality, and every creature in its embrace is prosperous. Such a kingdom would make a wonderful place to raise children of our own someday. It warms my heart to imagine children that look like her.

"Sire, it is time to get dressed." Pierre's voice abruptly ruins my daydream. His rasping voice could ruin the sweetest of moments. "Yes, then let's get this done. I am eager to see my bride." I rush through the arduous task of adding layer upon layer. Then with a joy that is most uncouth I nearly run to the great hall where I shall finally find my happiness. I arrive long before it is time, and the king is smiling down at me. "Ah, my darling son. You look absolutely overjoyed!" He has been a longtime friend, and a mentor through some of the rougher times in my own kingdom. "Today, I will officially be your son, and I am marrying a woman that is far better than I deserve. I see every reason to be positively beaming on such a glorious day." His hearty laugh manages to overpower the bustling noises of the room, "Yes, I suppose that is true. Now, let's see if your bride to be is ready." He motions to the guards and they nod in return. The trumpets start and I quickly turn my back on the opening doors.

The urge to turn and see her is unbearable, but I know I must wait. The thrill of lifting that vail from her face and kissing her has me bouncing with energy. I have long awaited this day, and she has no idea how happy I can make her. Her fantasies of running away will surely vanish the moment she sees my face.