Chapter 7 AGREEMENT

NEXT DAY, 7PM, RADIANT CROWN PALACE

The Palace buzzed with excitement as maids scurried about, preparing for the grand introduction of Prince Alex's fiancée. The air was electric with anticipation, and the sound of soft chatter and clinking silverware filled the air. The palace's grandeur was on full display, with sparkling chandeliers, polished marble floors, and intricate tapestries adorning the walls.

In the royal dining hall, Princess Isabella beamed with pride as she congratulated Hazel-well, yes, Hazel won.

Isabella's warm smile and genuine aura made Hazel feel at ease, despite the intimidating grandeur of the palace. The princess's kind eyes and gentle manner put Hazel's nerves at bay, making her feel like she was part of the family.

"Congratulations, Hazel! You deserve it," Isabella said, her voice warm and genuine.

"I'm so thrilled to have you as a part of our family. You'll make a wonderful addition, I just know it."

Queen Ophelia, however, didn't share the same enthusiasm. Her face remained stern, her eyes fixed on Hazel with a hint of disapproval. Her expression seemed to say, "You're not good enough for our family."

Elara glared at Hazel from across the table, her arms crossed. Her eyes seemed to bore into Hazel's soul, as if daring her to make a mistake. Elara's piercing gaze made Hazel feel like an outsider, a feeling she couldn't shake off.

Hazel, meanwhile, was a nervous wreck. She couldn't believe she was sitting among royalty-Queen Ophelia, Princess Isabella, and soon, the king himself. The weight of the moment settled heavily on her shoulders, making her feel like she was drowning in a sea of expectations.

Just then, the doors swung open, and the king entered. Everyone rose from their seats, bowing in unison. Hazel followed suit, her heart racing with excitement and nerves. The king's commanding presence filled the room, making her more nervous.

Once seated, the maids began serving the feast. The king turned to Queen Ophelia and asked,

"Where is Alex? He should be here to greet his fiancée." The queen's expression turned even darker, her eyes flashing with annoyance, but she controlled it.

Just then, Alex strolled in, flashing his famous smile. He greeted Hazel with a charming bow.

"You look stunning. I'm honored to have you as my fiancée." Hazel blushed, taken aback by Alex's sudden charm. She couldn't help but wonder if this was the real Alex or just a facade.

Not just her-everyone was shocked. Did Alex just compliment Hazel? Just like that?!

Princess Isabella stared at him suspiciously, but Alex was already talking to Hazel, making the king smile happily.

Even Queen Ophelia had to calm down. If her son liked her, then she wouldn't mind.

After about thirty minutes, Alex stood up.

"Hazel, can I talk to you privately, please?" He smiled.

"Oh... yes," Hazel said and got up, all eyes on them.

"We will be back, Father," he smiled and went out.

Hazel also bowed and followed.

Alex stood somewhere silent and turned to her coldly, all the fake smiles on his face disappeared, and Hazel almost froze, even without him saying a word.

"I just want to make the air clear enough so we can both have peace in this darn palace... Don't ever-I repeat, don't ever have it in mind that I am your fiancé or whatever it's called. Well, of course, in front of the family, especially the king, we are a couple. But don't ever try any nonsense outside of that, do you understand me?" Alex warned, and Hazel looked at him speechlessly.

"I just asked a question," Alex glared.

"I understand," she mumbled.

"When you see me, hide from my sight. Like, he should have at least got me someone sexy who's my type," Alex mumbled, glaring at Hazel all over.

Hazel swallowed and sighed, trying to control herself, the way he was staring at her as if she were disgusting.

"Alex?" They heard Isabella's voice, and Alex immediately grabbed Hazel's hand.

"Oh, sis, we were just coming," he said.

"I can see you two are getting along," Isabella said.

"Of course, she's pretty," Alex grinned.

Hazel also smiled...