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“We haven’t decided yet, but we’re looking forward to exploring our options.”
“Ah, young love,” my father muses, smiling fondly at us both. “It’s such an exciting time, isn’t it?”
“Indeed, it is,” I agree, my gaze drifting back to Lily.
She offers me a shy smile, and I’m struck by the realization that she will make an amazing princess. And, one day, an amazing queen.
As our conversation continues, I find myself becoming increasingly certain of this fact. Her grace under pressure, her intelligence, and her genuine kindness are qualities that would serve our country well. And as I watch her effortlessly charm my parents, I understand just how smitten they are with her.
With full confirmation, I see that this ruse has worked. My parents don’t even seem to suspect that I’ve set up an agreement with Lily that’s based on anything but the deepest love.
I’ve done it. I’m a con artist of the finest caliber.
When our meeting finally comes to an end, my parents stand and embrace Lily warmly, welcoming her into our family. And as I lead her out of the drawing room, hand in hand, I have to force myself to not smile with glee. Everything is going exactly to plan.
“Your parents are wonderful, Felix.” We walk down the corridor, and she draws her hand out of mine.
But of course. Without an audience, what is the point of touching?
Unfortunately, I miss her hand already. And her lips. And every other inch of her body.
I’d be lying if I said our night together hasn’t constantly been on my mind. I’m not a weak man, though. I can compartmentalize things, and I understand a little something about consequences.
“I’m glad you think so,” I reply, pulling myself back to the present moment. “And I have no doubt that they’re just as taken with you as I am.”
“I’d love to take a look at the gardens,” she says. “If that’s all right. I read online that there are over a hundred different kinds of roses in it.”
“Of course. Right this way.”
The setting sun casts an enchanting glow over the palace grounds as I lead Lily outside. The warm breeze carries the sweet scent of blooming flowers, and my heart swells with happiness at the thought of showing her this magical place.
She gasps with wonder as she takes in the sprawling landscape before us. “I can’t believe I’m actually here. It’s like something out of a fairy tale.”
As we stroll along the manicured pathways, Lily marvels at the vibrant flowerbeds, the delicate fountains, and the majestic peacocks that strut around the grounds. Her joy is contagious, and I find myself falling even deeper under her spell.
“Over there…” I point to a particularly lush corner of the garden. “…is my favorite spot. I used to come here all the time when I was younger, just to think or read.”
“Would you mind if we went there? Even though it is your special spot.” She gives me a teasing look.
“Of course not,” I reply, guiding her toward the secluded haven.
As we make our way through the labyrinth of hedges and blossoms, the last rays of the sun give way to the silvery light of the rising moon. The world becomes bathed in a soft, ethereal glow, and the air between us seems to hum with electricity.
Finally, we reach the hidden alcove, which is encircled by fragrant jasmine and rose vines. A stone bench rests beneath a canopy of stars, providing the perfect vantage point to gaze upon the twinkling night sky.
“Wow,” Lily breathes, awestruck by the beauty that surrounds us. “This place is magical.”
“Isn’t it?” I stare at her for a long moment. She looks otherworldly in the moonlight, like a fairy or angel that doesn’t belong here among mere humans.
As we sit down on the bench, our hands brush, sending a jolt of desire coursing through me. The magnetic pull between us is undeniable, and I find myself drawing closer to her until our faces are mere inches apart.
This is wrong. I shouldn’t have brought her out here, to such a romantic spot, to such a private place. I need to get up and walk away.
And yet I don’t. I stay firmly where I am, letting everything unfold.
“Thank you for bringing me here,” Lily whispers, her breath warm against my lips.
“Anything for you,” I say, my voice deep and my heart pounding in my chest as I lean in for a kiss.
