The Prince and His Pauper

Chapter 43: The Prince Meets His Rival

It has been nearly a month since I've seen Cassiel. I've called him twice a day all throughout our winter break and sent him long texts of what I've done whenever I had any free time. He would respond with few short answers before he returns the gesture as well. To say I was ecstatic to return to school is an understatement.

All during winter break, I was in my beloved kingdom celebrating Christmas by hosting a Christmas ball in our castle. I spent most of my time smiling at guests and dancing with Natalia since she was the only girl I was comfortable dancing with. Also because she demanded that I danced with her since I haven't talked to her as often as she would prefer. I didn't mind it, I kept thinking of Cassiel being here with me on these balls.

The idea of Cassiel visiting my kingdom filled my head with different possibilities of his presence in each room. Such as how he would like the garden in the back of the castle? Or the beach that is only a small drive away? Or the balls that my family hosts for different occasions, would he like them?

Overall, I spent all of my winter break thinking of Cassiel. Now that my break is over and I have returned from Paradisi Nigoro, I am finally able to see my boyfriend again. However, I couldn't drive to his house myself since my father insisted that Sebastian took me instead while Leo took his motorcycle. I already let Cassiel know that I couldn't pick him up today and he replied that it was fine, but we had to talk. Of what, I'm not sure.

"Sebastian, can't you drive any faster?" I ask irritatingly with my voice full of impatience.

"My prince, I cannot go over the speed limit for you. You will still be in school on time to see Master Cassiel, you have to be patient." Sebastian declares as he drives into the school.

"I am patient. . . On most days. Cassiel wants to talk to me and I don't know why. I didn't do anything that is worth talking about the next day." I protest while I stare outside of my window to see the slow traffic within the school.

​​​​​​"Really? Isn't there a conversation that you two have avoided? During your last date with him?" Sebastian prompts, instantly reminding me of what I said to Cassiel.

In all honesty, I didn't mean to say that to him. Especially in the state I was in, but after thinking everything that has happened between us and the short amount of time we have left, I don't regret it. I've grown to love Cassiel and I wish we could have more time together to experience everything a normal couple would experience.

"I don't think it has to do with that, Sebastian. I haven't said it to him after our date and he never mentioned it either." I note, recollecting our conversations throughout our break. I've wanted to say it again every time we hang up, but I assumed that he wasn't ready to hear me say it again.

"My prince, despise the fact you both have ignored it, you two need to talk about it. I have read in some articles that some people end their relationship because of lack of communication. Master Cassiel might finally want to discuss it with you." Sebastian suggests just as the car arrives at the front of the school.

"Perhaps he does. I won't know until I speak with him. Will you give Cassiel a ride home after school?" I ask and grab my backpack in my hand.

"Of course, my prince. I will even come an hour early with some snacks for the two of you to pick on the way to his house." Sebastian replies while I climb out of the car.

We bid each other a good day and I make my way to my first period since I didn't see Cassiel waiting for me in our usual meeting place. The first bell rings, making me worry because he still hasn't shown up. Not even when Mrs. Rodriguez arrived and unlocked her classroom door. In fact, he didn't show up during first period nor did he sent me a text.