fairytale upside down

"I Love You " X "I'm Sorry "

Henry's POV
I love her.. From the moment I laid my eyes on her I love her but since the first time we met I lied to her about my identity.

I don't even know why I lied to her that I'm not Prince but that's because maybe I was scared if she knew that I'm a Prince she won't be able to see the real me but by the time I realised she doesn't like Princes at all I never dared to tell her who I am.

Albert is a Palace guard and a good friend of mine.. He knows that I'm sneaking around to meet Cindy. One day he followed me, found out and he was pretty angry but eventually agreed and sometimes comes with me to keep me safe.

I have been meeting her since the last 3 months and she is doing great... She is a fast learner but honestly I don't care about her sword fighting. All I want was to see her.. If I have to lie then be it.

Today is the day of the week and I was thinking about sneaking out again when grand Duke came running bursting through my door.

"what is it that you need grand Duke.. It's not a wise thing to do.. Entering my chamber without knocking." I know he is the royal advisor my father appointed but I don't hold much of respect for him. He is manipulative and I know that he is a lot interested money than his job.

" pardon me for being irresponsible Prince Henry but your father is ill and is calling for you." he said panting.

I didn't hear anything after that as I started running towards my father's chamber. There he is.. Looking pale.

"father.. Father.. Are you alright? What happened?" I ran towards my father and sat beside his bed on my knees.. Tears started threaten to come out but I can't.. 'a Prince can't show his weakness' that's what my father taught me.

He stayed strong even when my mother left us.. He is a great ruler and I have so much respect for him. I promised myself that I won't disappoint him ever.

"as you can see.. His majesty has been ill for a couple months now but looks like its getting worse" grand Duke replied. My father just nodded forcing a smile... He is weak... He was fine today morning. He was weak but he still did his work but now I'm looking at his pale body laying on bed.

"is there any way to treat his illness? Find the best physician.. I need my father to be fine" I whisper yelled.

"royal physician is present to serve his majesty and he said he can treat him but can only try..." Duke answered.

"OK.. You may go now. I want to be with my father" I said.

Everyone left but grand Duke stayed. I want him out but I can't order him... Only my father has the privilege but he trust him too much.

I sat there looking at my father. He slowly lifted his left hand cupping my cheek .

"father..." I said snuggling.. leaning into his palm.

"Henry... My son... I want you to take the throne" my father said Horsley... His voice held so much love and care.

"no father.. I can't do that. You will be fine. I have so much time to think about it." I said... Mostly calming  myself

"we can't see future, son. Please... I want to rest peacefully knowing my people are safe in hands of a fine king " he said

I know.. I understand.. And I want to take the burden upon my shoulders but in order to take the thrown I have to get married. And here I am lying to the girl I love.. I don't know how she takes the thing about me being Prince let alone marriage.

"but... Father. In order to take the thrown I have to get married" I said.. Shocked by the situation I got myself into.

"yes.. Prince Henry. And your father already choose a fine princess who can be a great queen to rule beside you" grand Duke intereped.