The World Cannot Know

Chapter 11

Matthew Wild

I sat on the edge of my bed, head heavy in my hands, trying to make sense of the chaos that had unfolded last night. The taste of whiskey still lingered on my tongue, mingling with the memory of Sebastian's lips against mine. It was a kiss—a moment that now seemed both surreal and terrifying, threatening to unravel everything I held dear.

How could I? How could I do this to Katharina? She was not only my sister but a person I deeply cared for and respected. The weight of guilt settled heavily in my chest as I replayed the events of the night before. Sebastian's touch had been both gentle and electrifying, pulling me into a whirlwind of emotions I had not anticipated.

I had always supported Katharina's potential match with Sebastian, believing it was not only a strategic alliance for our families but also a union that could bring stability to the kingdom. But now, after that impulsive, reckless kiss, everything felt uncertain. How could I face Katharina knowing what had transpired between her intended and me?

I've been hiding out, not wanting to see the Prince, not wanting to see anyone. The thought of betraying Kathy's trust pained me more than I could express. Katharina had always been there for me, guiding and supporting me through the complexities of courtly life. Now, I feared I had jeopardised our relationship and the carefully laid plans our family had made.

As I sat there, grappling with my own conflicted feelings, the sound of a soft knock at my door startled me from my thoughts. "Matthew?" It was Katharina's voice, filled with concern and perhaps a hint of apprehension.

"Come in," I called out, my voice betraying none of the turmoil raging inside me

As Katharina entered, her eyes sparkled with anticipation, her cheeks flushed with excitement. "Matthew," she began eagerly, "I can hardly contain myself! The ball is tonight... I have the strongest feeling that something magical is going to happen."

I forced a smile, my heart heavy with guilt over what had transpired between Sebastian and me. "I'm glad you're looking forward to it," I managed to reply, my voice strained.

Katharina didn't seem to notice my subdued demeanor as she perched herself on the edge of the bed beside me, her excitement bubbling over. "Matthew, you should have seen Prince Sebastian today," she gushed, her eyes dreamy. "He spoke to me again, and he's so charming, so attentive. Nothing like the rumours say he's like. I think..." She hesitated for a moment, a shy smile playing on her lips. "I think I could really see myself marrying him."

Her words stabbed at my heart, a painful reminder of the tangled mess I had created. "Katharina," I began tentatively, struggling to find the right words.

She placed a gentle hand on my arm, cutting off my sentence. "Matthew, please," she interrupted gently, her grip on my arm firm but comforting. "I know you're always looking out for me, but you don't need to worry this time. Sebastian isn't what everyone says he is. When he talks to me, it's as if he sees the real me, not just the idea of being his wife or the political advantage."

I swallowed hard, the bitter taste of my own betrayal almost too much to bear. "I... I just want you to be happy," I managed to say, my voice cracking under the strain.

She smiled warmly, her eyes softening. "I am happy," she replied. "I truly believe that Sebastian could be the one to bring joy and stability into my life. We've all heard the rumors about his... dalliances, but I think he's different with me. He seems sincere."

A pang of jealousy twisted in my chest, mingling with the guilt and confusion that already plagued me. "I'm sure he does," I said quietly, my mind racing with the memory of Sebastian's kiss, the way his touch had ignited something deep within me that I had never felt before.