AllFreeNovel
Share Us
Chapter One
Esme
Home.
It’s a word that usually conjures fond memories.
Memories of love. Of laughter. Of belonging.
Coming home after a long time away is often an occasion to celebrate. Moms hug their daughters, telling them how much they missed them. Fathers embrace their sons, asking how they’re getting on in the world. Siblings make jabs, sometimes tease each other about a new love interest. But through it all, one thing endures.
Their love for each other remains true.
That’s not what it’s like for me.
There are no warm greetings.
No hugs from family members.
No love.
There hasn’t been for years now.
Instead, the second I step out of the SUV driven by my chief protection officer and stare up at the imposing walls of Lamberside Palace in the Nation of Belmont, I’m met with nothing but stiff formality.
Custom.
Tradition.
After all, there’s no room for love in a monarchy.
Or so I’ve been told throughout my life.
“Your Highness,” a man in a dark suit greets me with a bow, as is expected of him.
“Good afternoon, Oliver.” I offer one of the palace butlers a cordial smile.
“How were your travels?”
“Uneventful. It’s a short flight from Paris.”
“Lovely to hear. The Queen Mother has requested to see you upon your arrival.” He does a once over of my attire. “Would you like to take a moment to…freshen up?”
I’ve been around this life long enough to know that’s his polite way of suggesting I change into something more in line with the unspoken dress code before he takes me to see my grandmother.
The skinny jeans, white, off-the-shoulder top, and wedge sandals revealing my bright pink toenail polish certainly aren’t appropriate attire.
Especially the wedge sandals.
“That’s not necessary. My grandmother’s time is valuable. We can go there directly. It’s why Adam drove me here instead of my apartment at Gladwell.”
Oliver arches a brow, silently questioning if I’m certain. When I don’t respond, only holding my head higher, he nods, extending his arm toward the entrance.
As I cross the threshold into the lobby of Lamberside’s residential wing, a weight settles on my chest.
Or perhaps a noose wraps around my neck.
To everyone on the outside, I live a fairytale life. I have the best clothes. Designer handbags. Expensive shoes. Not to mention, a vault containing priceless jewels dating back centuries.
