Surprisingly Royal

👸Chapter 4: A surprise visit

Ciara's POV

My eyes are all puffy from crying so much last night. I still can't wrap my head around the fact that I've been grounded , and for what? Nothing that serious, really. Now I'm stuck at home doing chores all day like I'm being punished for a crime.

I drag myself to the bathroom to take a long, warm bath to feel a little better.

Afterward, my stomach growls loud enough to echo in the hallway. I haven't eaten since yesterday's quick breakfast. So, I head toward the kitchen, hoping to find something to eat.

As I approach, the smell of bacon and scrambled eggs hits me. My first instinct is to run back to my room to avoid another round of scolding from Mum. But my stomach clearly has other plans, and honestly, I might pass out if I don't eat soon.

So I walk in, pretending everything's fine.

"Good morning," I say quietly.

"Good Morning," she replies, glancing up from the table.

"How are you feeling today?" she asks.

"Better than yesterday, I guess," I mumble.

"Alright then."

We set the table together, and she serves us breakfast. We eat in silence, and it's a little awkward , the kind of silence that feels heavy, like there's a lot unsaid.

⸻

Mary's POV

"So... any plans for today?" I ask, trying to break the tension and instantly regretting it.

"Not really. It's not like I'm allowed to leave the house," she replies without even looking at me.

"Ciara, I know this might seem unfair, but staying indoors is for the best right now. I just want you to stay safe. It's only for a week or two, and I promise you can still enjoy yourself in the house if you try."

I pause, trying to word it right.

"Please trust me on this, I'm only doing what I feel is right for you." I add softly

"What are you so afraid of?" she asks softly. "I'll just be out for a few hours. I'll be home by 4 p.m., maybe even 3! Please, Mum... just lift the punishment."

"I already explained this yesterday, and I'll say it again, my decision is final. Let's not argue about it anymore. Let's just eat and carry on with the day."

She mutters under her breath, "You brought it up..."

"Keep that up, and I'll have to add more to your punishment," I warn gently but firmly.

"Sorry. Won't happen again," she says with a sigh.

"Good. Let's finish breakfast before it gets cold."

She just nods, and we continue eating in silence.

Once we're done, Ciara clears the table and washes the dishes, while I fold the laundry and put everything away. Then, something hits me ,I never got any update about that letter yesterday.

⸻

Ciara's POV

"Ciara!" I hear Mum call out.

"Yeah?"

"Did go to the post office yesterday to check on the letter?"

"Oh... yeah. They said there wasn't anything for you."

"I see..." she says, clearly disappointed.

"I could go check again if you want," I offer quickly, hoping she'll say yes and let me out for a bit.

"Nice try, missy. You're not going anywhere. If anyone's going, it's me."

"But Mum—"

"No buts. Go back to whatever you were doing before I called you."

"Fine," I mutter.

Ugh. So much for my brilliant excuse. One small chance to step out, and it's ruined. That's what you get for living with a clever mum who sees through everything.

I finish washing up and go to dust the furniture in the sitting area. Mum is already there, knitting something that looks like a sweater.

Trying to sound casual, I decide to strike up a little chat. Maybe I can ease her up.

"Mum?"

"Yes, dear?"

"What's your plan for today?"

She gives me a suspicious look. "Why do you ask?"

"Oh, no reason. I just figured you might have plans that don't involve keeping an eye on me all day."

She chuckles softly. "Not much. I just need to drop by a friend's place to pick up some vegetables."

"Hmm... okay."

I start thinking of another way to sneak outside, but before I can get far with that thought, there's a knock on the door.

"I'll get it!" I say, walking over.

I open the door, and there's Emily, looking all flustered and down.

"Well, well, Em! What have I done to deserve such a blessing today?" I tease dramatically.

"Hey, Ciara. I really just needed someone to talk to... and who better than my best friend?" she says, looking like she's about to cry.

"Come here, Em." I pull her into a hug. "Let's go inside."

"Good afternoon, Auntie," she greets Mum politely.

"Are you alright, dear?" Mum asks.

"I'm fine, thank you. Hope you're doing well too?"

"I'm doing okay." Mum replies

Then Mum turns to me and says, "Since your friend's here, I'll go fetch the vegetables now. Make some tea for her, alright?"

"Sure. Feel at home, Em," she says as she heads out.

I grin. "Looks like we've got the house to ourselves. Let me make us some tea, and we can chill in my room."

Emily nods with a weak smile, and I get to work.

Once the tea is ready, we head to my room. I don't know exactly why she came here today, but I'm just happy to have her around.

⸻

☆☆☆☆☆

A/N

Hey lovely readers 👋😆
Thanks for reading this chapter — and sorry it came a little late!

Don't forget to vote and drop your comments if you're enjoying the story or want to ask anything.

Till next time...
Byeeee! 👋👋👋