Across boundaries (1D series - Book two)

Across boundaries >> XIX <<

SORRY for the short chapter!

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Across boundaries  

Across boundaries >> XIX <<

We stopped before the gates of a beautiful European mansion made up of almost pink bricks and a small fountain at the doorstep.

"We're here," Ben announced before he communicated with the guards.

"How long have you known Chester?" Niall asked.

"Since I was born," I replied. "He's the grandson of the cousin of my grandmother."

"And you were betrothed to him?" He asked in amazement.

I nodded. "They made a pact – my grandmother and her cousin."

"But why you? Why not Mia?"

"Mia wasn't around then," I explained. "Mia was only found when she was sixteen. Before that, everybody thought I was the next queen."

"Were you supposed to be?"

I shook my head, "No, of course. Father was supposed to be King. But the Council was worried that he would end up like his brother, renouncing his throne. When Father died, grandmother went in search for Mia."

"Why? Couldn't she just let you succeed?"

I shook my head, "Biologically, I'm not the next in line. Mia is."

"So... you have the same father, but different mothers..."

I nodded.

"What happened to your mom?"

"Labour complications," I shrugged. "She died when I was born."

"So you have never met her ..."

"Nope..."

"Sorry," he wrapped his arm around me.

"For?" I asked, bemused. "I'm not really upset."

"Don't you miss her...?"

"How do you miss someone whom you have never met in your entire life?" I said. "Besides, Grandma was always around."

"So, you grew up with Sammy and Chester..."

I nodded, "And a couple of other people as well. You will meet them at the ball, I think."

"And you have no special feelings for Chester?"

I shook my head, "He was more like a brother to me... always keeping an eye... he's three years older..."

"And you are sure he feels the same way?"

"I'm sure," I said confidently. "Chester never treated me more than a sister. In fact, he treats Sammy the same."

"So the Duke is home as well?" Niall asked as we alighted.

"I don't think so," I answered. "He rarely stays here. He has a Mansion in France with the Duchess..."

"Chester is all alone here?"

"With Mirabelle, his sister."

"Allie!" a sweet young female voice called out. I turned and saw a pretty blonde girl waving at me.

"Belle!" I ran forward and hugged her. "I didn't know you are back in town."

"I came back last night," she beamed. "For the state ball."

"And just in time," I chuckled.

"Who's that?"

She asked, indicating to Niall whom I had left behind me.