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“Listen,” Theodore began, leaning in with a conspiratorial grin. “I know it’s a lot to handle, but you’re not alone in this. We’re here to help you through it, every step of the way.”
“Besides,” Eloise added with a playful smirk, “you’re not going to have time to worry about what everyone else thinks when you’re busy learning how to properly wield a scepter without poking someone’s eye out.”
“All right,” James said, determination returning to his voice. “Let’s do this— for Father, and for Theron.”
IN THE QUIET SOLITUDE of the palace gardens, James found a momentary respite from the chaos that had consumed his life since learning about his father’s heart attack. The gentle rustle of leaves and the calming scent of jasmine brought him a sense of peace he hadn’t felt in days.
“James?” came a soft, familiar voice behind him. Turning, he saw Amanda approaching with a small smile on her face. Her eyes shone with worry, though she tried to hide it as she held out a steaming cup of tea.
“Thank you,” he murmured, accepting the cup gratefully. Their fingers brushed for a moment, sending a warm shiver down his spine. It was an odd feeling, considering the weight of new responsibilities bearing down on him.
“Everyone is so worried about your father,” Amanda sighed, sitting beside him on the garden bench. “I just wanted to make sure you’re doing all right. Do you want me to come to the hospital with you? I feel like I should be there, not here trying to plan a wedding.”
“If the worst happens, our country will want to see me married with a queen at my side. You keep planning the wedding, and I’ll keep sitting around impatiently.”
He pulled her against him, just needing her warmth for a moment, despite the heat of the summer sun. “Am I selfish for thinking about us?” James asked abruptly, his voice cracking slightly. This was the first time they had been alone since the news broke, and the impact of his father’s condition on their future suddenly seemed all too real. “Our wedding, our plans together...What if everything has to change because of this?”
“James, you’re not selfish for thinking about our lives,” Amanda reassured him, placing a comforting hand on his knee. “But you know as well as I do that your duty to Theron must come first.”
He nodded, knowing she was right. But as he stared at the ring on her finger, he couldn’t help but feel torn between his desires and his duty to his country.
“I shouldn’t have left the hospital, but I needed a minute for it all to sink in. Do you know if Mother is planning to go to the hospital?” He was grateful for Amanda’s unwavering support, but he couldn’t help but wonder if he was capable of living up to his father’s legacy.
“I don’t think so. She’s pretty distraught, and she thinks she’ll make things harder on everyone if she goes.”
“I guess I should get back then.” He embraced her, kissing her cheek. “Thanks for being here for me. I needed you.”
Amanda stroked his cheek. “I’ll be here whenever you need me.” She thought for a moment about telling him what Marquis Christopher had said to her, but she decided against it. He had enough on his plate at the moment.
JAMES ENTERED THE DIMLY lit hospital room, his heart heavy. The steady beeping of the machines monitoring his father’s vital signs filled the air, a constant reminder of the king’s fragile state. He approached the bedside, taking a moment to observe his father’s pale face, deepened lines etched across his forehead.
“Father,” James whispered, grasping the older man’s hand in his own. “I’m here.”
Though unconscious, the king’s presence still held a comforting familiarity. James couldn’t help but remember the countless times his father had guided him, offering wisdom and advice as he prepared to one day take the throne.
“Remember when you taught me how to ride a horse?” James chuckled softly, reminiscing about the exhilarating experience. “I was so scared, but you told me that fear was just another challenge to overcome. You were always there for me, Father.”
A gentle squeeze on his shoulder interrupted his thoughts, and he looked up to see Amanda standing beside him. Her eyes shimmered with empathy, and she offered a reassuring smile.
“Your father is strong, James,” Amanda said softly. “He’s been through so much and has always come out on top. He’ll get through this, too.”
James sighed, rubbing the back of his neck. “I know, it’s just...seeing him like this makes everything feel so real. I can’t help but worry.”
“Of course, you’re worried,” Amanda agreed, her voice gentle. “But you need to have faith.”
“Every time I think about stepping up as king, my stomach twists into knots,” James admitted, his gaze falling to the floor. “What if I’m not ready? What if I make a mess of things?”
“James, look at me.” Amanda tilted his chin up until their eyes met. “You are more than capable of leading this kingdom. You have a good heart, and you’re surrounded by people who love and support you. We’ll all be here to help you through this.”
“Thank you, Amanda,” James said softly, his eyes glistening with unshed tears. “Your faith in me means the world.”
“Remember, you don’t have to do this alone,” she continued, her voice brimming with confidence. “You have me, Theodore, Eloise, and a whole kingdom behind you. Together, we can face any challenge that comes our way.”
James knew that Amanda was right. He didn’t have to face the future alone.
Amanda watched as James, deep in thought, traced the outline of his father’s hand with his fingertips. She bit her lip, hesitating, as she contemplated whether to tell him about her growing concerns regarding Marquis Christopher. No, she should wait.
“Hey,” she said gently, squeezing his arm. “Why don’t we take a walk? Get some fresh air?”
