Emery: A Prince's Adventure

My great-grandfather was a very close friend of the previous king of England. They've known each other since they were kids; that's one of the reasons why they were close. When they were in their sixties, they made an agreement between friends that the first daughter born from my family will be engaged to the first son born from the royals.

Unfortunately, my grandfather was born which made the agreement continue on. When they thought that my grandmother would be having a girl, they were mistaken. My father was born and that's explain why I'm here-a result of his love with my mother.

Would I consider it fate or misery? The agreement was made in the twentieth century which was highly impossible to not have a single daughter born until me. Other girls wouldn't be complaining-seriously, being engaged to a royal right after you were born-that's a fairy tale.

But, am I made for Emery?

--

Emma

''What?!'' I ask, without realising the tone of my voice-causing the whole restaurant to become quiet and turn to look at me. I immediately cover my face with my hand; embarrassed. As I mutter curses under my breath, I start to look back up at my mother, seeing her lips curve up into a smile.

''You heard me, sweetheart.'' She replies, taking a bite of her salmon. Both of her brown eyes are looking straight at me and for once, I feel like poking both of her eyes due to the anger I'm feeling. My mind can't seem to take the pressure I'm feeling at the moment.

''What does that even mean?'' I groan, rubbing onto my temples as I start to feel stress radiating.

My mind can't seem to forget the words she said minutes ago. She told me that I am engaged to a well-known prince of England. Not only that, she also told me that I have been engaged ever since I came out of her tummy-taking the first breath of fresh air. My mother could be insane, she might need to be admitted to the hospital and get things checked out but I know that's not it.

''Emma, what's so shocking about it? You're twenty-five this year, you don't have a boyfriend, you are beautiful, available-so you shall get married. It's destined for you. Other girls would be dying on their feet to marry a prince. I really don't expect a reaction like yours,'' She says, shaking her head in disagreement.

My eyebrows furrow, not really believing what she said, ''I don't want to get married, mother. I'm twenty-five, single, beautiful but not available. There's nothing that you can do to force me because I have control over my own life.'' I reply, with a smile on my face; trying to calm myself down.

To my surprise, she starts to chuckle which leaves me in confusion. I continue to look at her, trying to seek for answers but she seems calm and prepared for everything-which terrifies me. What if she planned everything out yesterday before meeting me? That can be a disaster.

''You simply don't understand, child. Your great-grandfather made the agreement with the previous king of England. Do you know how important is it? Royalties take such things very serious, they don't fool around.'' She continues before taking a sip of water.

''No. This is not happening. I have a life, mum. I managed to take over dad's restaurant and make it successful again after my graduation so you're not going to take that away from me. Marriage is very out of topic, we shall not talk about this again if you don't want to upset me.'' I say, groaning afterwards.

My life can't be destroyed with marriage. This is too much for me to handle. Sometimes, I can't even handle myself and she wants me to marry a royalty? That's very insane. I know, I've been single ever since I got my heart broken by my first love-back in high school but that's not the case, I really don't want to fall in love again. Not yet.

''Sweetheart, this isn't my choice. It was made before your father was even born. There's surely not an option either for you,'' She breaks the silence, causing me to groan once more-realising that she's really starting to piss me off.

When it comes to temper, I'm not very good at handling it. My family knows that about me. They say that it comes from mum but she hardly agrees. Almost everything about me comes from her except for my appearances-it's mostly from dad but the eye colour is definitely from mum.

Brown eyes all the way, people.

Mum and dad had a divorce when I was fifteen. It's due to the fact that they can't solve things very well-it's the cause of their marriage to be broken. Dad also said that they weren't compatible anymore and if they continue any further, it might scar deeply. Apart from their divorce, they are still close friends.

''Wouldn't you like it if I marry someone I love?'' I ask, causing her to stop talking at once. Her eyes are looking straight into mine; somehow I see regret appearing but she immediately blink it away.

Tears are starting to appear in her eyes, making me lean back on the chair. She breathes out, smiling down before looking back up at me, ''Just like your father and I.'' She mutters under her breath but still loud enough for me to hear.

''Exactly,''

She holds onto my hand on the table, ''That's exactly what I want for you, Emma. I want you to marry the man that you love, the man that you will plan your future with together, the man that you will fight for. I want what's best for you, honey. Marrying the prince is definitely not one of them but there's not an option for you,'' She rubs the back of my hand with her thumb; trying to soothe me down.

We end up enjoying the silence, only remembering the memories of growing up and spending with our loved ones. I know, deep inside, she never wanted to let dad go and it goes the same with him but it's also true that if you truly love someone, you'll let them go when it's right. For the sake of each other's happiness.

''I don't want to marry someone I don't know,'' I say and she nods, agreeing, ''I'll think about it, I'll either run away and leave the country so that they'll never find me or I'll come and see you,'' I add, making her laugh.

I immediately stand up, walking towards her before wrapping my arms around her neck and pulling her close for a hug. She rubs onto my back, soothingly trying to make me feel and think that everything will be alright. Everything will be fine. Nothing will come and prevent me from living the life I have planned.

''I love you, mum.'' I whisper near her ear.

''I love you more,'' She replies, pecking onto my cheek. I head straight towards the cashier to settle the bill before heading out after glancing one last time at her-seeing that she's also looking back at me with a small smile. Not a single mother would want to see sadness in their child's eyes but sometimes it's too difficult.

I walk down the street but my mind can't seem to forget about the things she said. My eyebrows furrow, remembering that she didn't say his name so I can't exactly search his name online because that's the only way I can know how he looks like-incase he's beautiful, I might reconsider.

Excuse me, what? I thought. I am not that cheap! I will not go for someone just because he's good-looking but that may be like the first reason-then again, it's not really necessary to only go for his looks. He could be handsome but he could also be hot-tempered; like me. If we're both hot-tempered, things will fall apart. Even the castle's roof.

I push the door open to my restaurant and I am greeted with a large amount of people enjoying their meals. My lips curve up into a smile at Jace-a very close friend of mine ever since he started working here. He's been good at giving me advice especially when it comes to men. I'm not the only one that is interested in men, he is too.

''How was it with your mother?'' He asks, resting his elbow on the counter.

With a deep sigh, I turn to look at him, ''It's awful. It would be better if I didn't go.'' I reply, earning myself a chuckle from him-maybe we can trade places. He can take my spot and go marry while I stay here, enjoying the life that I've always wanted.

''Sorry to hear that, baby girl but what happened?'' He raises an eyebrow.

We both sit down at the nearest table as he continues to look at me, concern in this eyes. He takes both of my hands on the table; trying to ensure me to speak because everything is going to be fine. ''I'm engaged,'' I mutter which causes his eyes to widen-not quite believing what he heard.

''Engaged as in engaged to be married?'' He blinks a few times.

''Yes, silly.'' I chuckle.

He looks down at my hand, trying to search for the engagement ring but I quickly raise both of my hands up, showing him that there's definitely no ring. Then, he continues to furrow his eyebrows in confusion; probably thinking that I'm insane and creating a fake engagement with an invisible man, ''Who are you engaged to? Is he hot? Handsome? Fuckable?'' His grin widens.

I roll my eyes, expecting his answers already.

''I don't know!'' I reply.

Jace furrow his eyebrows a bit more than necessary, almost squinting his light blue eyes, ''Are you saying that you don't know if he's hot or not? Girl, then you shouldn't marry him. What if he's old or a pervert or a pedophile? That's never safe, I wouldn't be there to protect you, sunshine.'' He raises his index finger before shaking it sideways.

''I mean, I don't know, Jace. My mum told me that I'm engaged to a royalty-how crazy can that sound? She didn't even tell me his name so we can't really search his name for pictures. I'm left clueless.'' I shrug, making a sad puppy face.

''Whoa, wait a minute. You're engaged to a royalty?'' His eyes widen instantly, showing how surprised he is. Then, he starts to stand up-overreacting a little before sitting down once more; but that's Jace, you got to love him, ''Damn, Emma. Go for it! He's a royalty, what more do you want?'' He winks.

''That's exactly what I don't want. Marrying a royalty is pretty cool in Disney movies but in real life, it seems impossible and weird. I'm a normal city girl who doesn't know shit about royalties-besides, this could be a pity joke. I don't what to think anymore,'' I lean my head against the seat, sighing deeply, ''What if he thinks that I'm ugly?'' I add.

''What if he's ugly?'' Jace questions.

I laugh, realising that it's true. I don't know how he looks like and he surely doesn't know how I look like-we both could be simply normal who might like each other or we might end up hating each other and never want to talk about anything. He can be a crazy lunatic or he can be a sweetheart; it's all possible.

''Baby girl, Emma, you're the most beautiful friend I've ever had. I swear, you can make any gay guys go straight but that's not going to happen with me, alright? You obviously have everything you ever wanted here in New York, maybe you can try and see, he could be one in a million?'' He sits beside me, wrapping his arm around my shoulder and pulling me close; giving me support.

''You friendzoned me, Jace.'' I look up at his blue eyes.

The both of us end up laughing and deep inside, I know that Jace is right. If it's true that I've been engaged to him ever since I was born, I can just go and see how things will go on-if he's a lunatic or something awful, I'll leave and never look back. I either live in regret of not going to see my so-called-fiancé or confirm things.

Who knows? He might be really nice and we might have each other's back.

''You might be right.'' I mutter.

He playfully punches me on the arm, ''What are you talking about, sunshine? I'm always right.'' He replies, chuckling before standing up, ''Look, unlike you, I actually work here and I need to get back before something goes wrong.'' He pats onto my shoulder and he starts to disappear into the kitchen; leaving me here, thinking about my life.

''Boss, you got a phone call!'' One of my employees shout from behind, causing me to quickly run towards the back, taking the call.

After work, I am just chilling in the living room, watching my favourite TV show. It's quite a day at the restaurant since it's actually the weekend, that explains the amount of customer. I've been dedicated towards my dad's restaurant ever since I graduated because when I was younger, he told me that it'll be mine one day.

Only if I work hard enough.

I guess I did work hard enough because if I didn't, I wouldn't be here, running after the restaurant. It's quite thrilling, running after a family business-I once thought on becoming a cardiologist but becoming one is a risk; leaving me here, running a business.

''Hi dad,'' I say after hearing him answering the call.

''Hey, princess. How are you? Is everything okay?'' He asks, making me smile after hearing his voice-I've missed him. The last time I saw him was last Christmas because we've both been busy and he moved to San Diego a couple of years ago.

''I'm good, how are you?'' I feel tears appearing in my eyes; making me press my lips into a thin line, wanting to prevent myself from crying. For no reason, I really feel like crying and tell him everything that has been going on with life but I don't want him to worry.

''The usual, sweetheart.'' He answers and keeps quiet for a few seconds, ''I know there's something wrong, Emma. You can tell me anything. You and I against the world, remember?''

My lips curve up into a smile as I wipe away the tears that has fallen, ''I had lunch with mum today and I found out that your grandfather was a really close friend with the previous king. Due to the fact that they want their friendship to last, they made an agreement.'' I speak, hearing him sigh at the other line; probably not expecting me to find out.

''It's not like that, Emma.''

''How long were you going to keep it a secret, dad?'' I ask.

''It was never a secret. Some people say that you were destined to marry the next king in line because ever since the agreement, you were the only first daughter born and he was the first son born. They have always had a son-it's highly unexpected for them to have a first daughter born.'' He continues, ''The agreement was made centuries ago but an agreement with the royalties are very respected.''

I breathe out, ''I've never had a choice, haven't I? You would never walk down the aisle with me towards the man I love but towards a man I barely know, would you still consider that destiny? What happened to you and I against the world, dad?'' Tears are streaming down my cheeks as I swallow the nonexistent lump in my throat.

''I'm so sorry, princess. This is one of the reasons why I don't want you to know,'' He replies.

''You can't keep it away forever.'' I mutter under my breath.

''I love you, Emma. I was only trying to protect your feelings. I wanted you to be the girl with hopes and dreams instead of the girl who knows that she'll never have a choice of her own future because it was decided before she was even born. I was only protecting my little girl,'' He says, somehow, I understand-he's only trying to make me believe that I'll actually have a normal life.

A life where I can choose where I'll stay, what I'll be, who I'll end up with but that has turned into memories. Memories that I don't intend on remembering. Maybe they were right, being an adult is much more difficult than I thought it would be. I've been wanting to grow up fast so that I can own everything, earn anything, be something but I can't seem to believe that it's all decided.

''I love you too, dad.'' I reply, ending the call before sighing deeply; watching the rain through the glass window.

Emery

I open the door to see a familiar dark brown haired woman standing with a smile on her face and just like that, I know there has got to be something, ''Mother.'' I mutter, earning myself a push from her so that she can enter the house-I take a few steps back, seeing that she has brought two bodyguards along.

As I turn to look at her, I see her eyes wandering around the house; probably mocking this place in her mind. Without further ado, I close the door, stepping towards the middle of the living room, ''I know that's not yours, Emery.'' She points at a white loose blouse, clearly a women's clothing.

To my surprise, she stands up, heading straight towards my bedroom. I quickly follow behind her, ''What are you doing?'' I ask but she ignores me by pushing the door open, revealing a woman with dark blonde hair, still in her deep slumber-which causes my mother to glare at me immediately.

She closes the door, gently and starts to pull me by the wrist, ''This is what you've been doing in Melbourne? Living like a man with no purpose? Who is she? Is she your girlfriend?'' She questions, making me put both of my hands on her shoulders and slowly letting her sit down on one of the sofas.

Both of her hazel eyes won't stop glaring at me and I know that she's not satisfied with me. Ever since I was eighteen, I moved straight to Australia because I don't want to be involved with any duties back in England-I never wanted that kind of life. I want a free life where I can do whatever and however I want.

Apart from that, I furthered my studies here.

Even in Australia, I know she's been keeping track of me. I'm the only child and I'm next to the throne; it's clear why she takes really good care of me. Other than the motherly love, sometimes I can't even have my own privacy-I've caught a few people following me and it was all her idea. She thought to keep me safe.

''Is she a prostitute?'' She questions once more which causes my eyes to widen slightly.

''No, she's a friend.'' I answer, shaking my head in denial.

Honestly, I barely even know her and she's just a girl I met last night at a party. She kept on wanting my attention and maybe I was too drunk to think clearly which explains why she's here, in my bedroom, in my house; in bed. Clearly, something happened last night with her.

''Friends don't have sexual intercourses.'' She responds and I start to chuckle-realising that it has been a while since I've talked to her. I've missed her and her voice; I missed her nagging a bit more because she always does that on the phone.

''It's a bit creepy when you say it like that,''

She rubs onto her temples, ''Oh dear, Emery. At least she's not your girlfriend, that would have broken my heart. She's definitely not I imagined my daughter-in-law would be but now when I think about it, she's far from what I imagined. Too far,'' She says, stating the truth.

Some men would be finding a girlfriend or even settling down at my age but due to the fact of being royalty, I have a hard time trusting women. No one here knows who I am because I want them to see me as a normal person with a normal life; not someone who's royalty and should be highly respected.

''I don't plan on having a girlfriend, just so you know.'' I say, taking a sip of water in the kitchen.

I look up to see her walking towards me. Her eyes are hiding something-something that I can't figure out. Mother has always been good with secrets because she enjoys keeping them, for the sake of someone's happiness or sadness. She's really good at keeping other people's secrets too.

''Excellent because you are getting married,'' She says, clapping her hands and smiling widely at me, causing me to choke on my water.

''What do you mean?'' I put the glass in the sink before turning to look at her once more, trying to seek for answers in her eyes. The way her eyes shine with happiness; I know that she has known this for a long time and has been waiting for the right time to tell.

She walks closer towards me, ''Emery, your great-grandfather was very close to her great-grandfather and they made an agreement for the sake of their friendship. They want their friendship to last forever so that's why you have to marry her. She's the first daughter born ever since the agreement was made-in the agreement, it stated that the first daughter born shall marry the first son born. Do you get this?'' She grins.

''You mean, that I have to marry her no matter what?'' I raise an eyebrow.

''Don't look of it that way, it seems a bit heartless, don't you think? You two have been destined to marry each other-it's fate. People say that all the time because how can there not be a single first daughter born in their family? It's quite a mystery.'' She chuckles, patting onto my shoulder.

I immediately furrow my eyebrows, realising something. Yes, it's true that I never really think about settling down just yet but when it comes to marrying someone, I would like it to be someone that I love instead of marrying someone that I barely know-it seems ridiculous.

This is the twenty-first century, we all have the right to marry whoever we want but I guess that right isn't for royalties. Then again, I don't know when it comes to her; she's probably jumping up and down when she heard that she would be marrying me, a royalty.

I guess she just got lucky.

''I can't just marry someone. I don't want to,'' I mutter under my breath before sighing deeply, walking towards the other side, not really wanting to face my mother at the moment.

She follows me from behind, ''There's nothing that we can do. The agreement has always been sealed to fulfil when your great-grandfather died-he made your grandfather promise and your grandfather made your father promise. I guess you won't be making that promise because you'll be fulfilling it.''

''I won't even be making that promise if I'm not in place to fulfil it. Everyone has a choice, mother especially when it comes to marrying someone. Just cancel the agreement, no one will question. You have the power to do that,'' I say, running my fingers through my hair, not quite believing that my mother came all the way to Melbourne just to tell me that I'll be getting married to a stranger.

''It can't be cancelled, my dear. I don't have the power to that, it has been written in the law until it is fulfilled-which will be cancelled on its own.'' She replies, sighing before sitting right next to me, soothingly rubbing my back.

My eyes immediately meet hers, ''She could be older than me-''

She cuts me off, ''She's twenty-five this year.''

I let out another sigh, somehow realising that there's not other way for me to run away from this kind of things. Agreements are taken seriously with royalties because it is something that rarely happens unless necessary. For some reason, I feel a bit curious about the girl; maybe she's attractive.

No, don't think about it right now. I thought. I don't marry someone just because she's attractive, I'll marry someone for her heart-for herself.

''Have you met her before?'' I ask, trying to know a bit more if I'm stuck with her. I might as well know something about her and not filled with blanks when we meet.

Mother looks at me, ''I've never met her before but I've seen pictures of her. Of course, I would want the best for you, Emery. She's a very beautiful girl, you don't have to worry about how she looks. I know how it bothers you with your curiosity but try to push that thought away for a moment.'' She replies.

I squint my eyes, trying to take a better look in her eyes before trying to joke around, ''I don't trust you.'' I say, jokingly and she starts to slap onto my arm; making me laugh once more.

With a smile, I wrap my arm around her shoulder which earns me a sigh. I look down at her, seeing that she has a heartwarming smile that can cheer anyone up-that explains why father fell in love with her; anyone would, ''If she's not what as you described, I'll be screaming bloody Mary.'' I joke once more.

She rolls her eyes, ''Never underestimate the queen, Emery France Van Allan.''

I cringe after hearing her say my full name because I rarely hear anyone say it. It would always be Emery or Prince Emery of Cambridge. Then, we both turn to see the woman with dark blonde hair standing near the bedroom door as she watches my mother and I with confusion, ''I'm late, I should go.'' She says, walking towards the front door after pecking onto my cheek.

My mother watches the whole thing with glares but as soon as she's out, I peck onto mother's cheek, ''You must've learned something after years of staying by yourself.'' She says.

''I've learned to cook, if you must know.'' I reply with a grin.

''Fascinating, prove it.'' She stands up, looking at me. From the look on her face, I can tell that she doesn't seem to trust me but I walk straight towards the kitchen with her trailing behind me, waiting for me to cook her a meal that I've come to know by heart.

''You'll see how lucky you are to have me as your son,'' I say, taking the ingredients before putting it on the kitchen counter as she sits on one of the stools, watching my every movement.

As I turn around to wash the vegetables, I can't seem to remove the thought of marrying someone I don't know. Of course, we all start with being strangers but it takes time to know each other before actually moving to a stage where marriage is an option-unlike me, it'll come straight and forward.

''Mother, may I at least know her name?'' I glance towards her direction for a few seconds as I see her taking a bite of an apple.

''Emma,'' She replies.

I look down at the vegetables in the sink before thinking of the name Emma. How would an Emma be? Funny? Outgoing? Boring? Caring? I just feel like knowing something about her; so that I can actually decide whether it's a right choice to make or not-I've been fooling around and never thinking on being serious with someone.

Even if we may marry soon, I might come to like her or I might also come to dislike her. If we are going to marry, we'll be spending the rest of our lives together and mother will expect us to have children or at least a child; which I can confirm, will not be soon.

''Has she already filled your mind?'' I hear mother asks from behind, causing me to chuckle lightly.

Surprisingly, yes even though I don't even have a single clue of how she looks like or how she is-I'll try my best to imagine her as someone I'd want to spend my life with; putting away any negative thoughts.

Emma, that's a pretty name.

Emma

It has been a week since the talk with both mum and dad. I took the whole week to really sort things through without hesitation because I want to figure things out instead of keeping them. Due to that, I guess it has been working for me to choose.

Apparently, mum booked the flight ticket earlier than I thought she would. She told me that she knows how I'll think through it and accept sincerely but then she also told me that there was also a high chance of me declining. That's the truth; I was considering declining but like Jace said, why not give it a try other than living in regret.

''You could be wrong,'' I say, turning to look at her.

Her lips curve up into a small smile, ''I could but you're here with me-in England, fulfilling your fate. No one can run away from everything, right Emma?'' She replies, putting on her lipstick before eyeing her lips in the mirror.

I glance one last time at the mirror before we start to make our way towards the exit and my eyes widen as soon as I see a black limousine parked at the front; grabbing everyone's attention at the sight of the two flags. My eyes wander around the tinted windows-trying to see if it's even possible for me to look inside but it's very impossible.

Mum and I stand still, not really knowing what to do.

''I thought we're getting a cab?'' I say, glancing at my mother and she nods, completely agreeing.

To my surprise, a royal chauffeur starts to make his way towards us with a small smile on his face. He appears to be around his forties but still manage to look young. Within seconds, he has already grabbed both of our bags before placing them in the trunk and opening the door for us.

''I'm sorry but as my mother informed, we're getting a cab.'' I say, trying to make sure that he's not picking up the wrong person or anything because that's far from what I want at the moment. We're in a foreign country and we've hardly been to England before except for dad, he was born here.

He furrows his eyebrows, ''I'm sorry miss but I was tasked to come and pick you and Mrs. Parker at the airport-as requested by the queen.'' He replies.

My mother smiles, ''Alright then, come on in, Emma.'' She says, getting inside the car while I stand still, watching her getting comfortable. With a sigh, I start to step inside-seconds before the chauffeur starts to close the door.

I glance once more at my mother, seeing that she's eyeing the sparkling water, ''I can guess that you don't know about this but I could be wrong.'' I say, breaking the silence and earning myself a sigh from her.

''Emma, I only arranged for our flight and our transportation which is clearly not this limousine. As far as I'm excited to meet the queen or my future son-in-law, I'm not as cruel as you think.'' She responds, choosing the mineral water instead before taking a sip.

I let out a deep sigh as I turn to look out through the window and realise that we're on our way to meet the queen and even the prince-my fiancé, that's what they call him. The whole ride is awkwardly quiet, I wouldn't dare to make a conversation with mother, who'll know what she will say. She's quite excited, I can see that and truth be told, I don't know what I should be feeling.

Excited or casual?

Deep inside, I don't feel a thing except for this curiosity of how he looks like. He might be curious about how I look like too if he haven't seen any of my pictures but you can never trust a royal family when it comes to matchmaking, they have every information that's possible. I guess they're lucky in some ways.

My eyes wander around the city of London and it somehow surprises me at the sight. I can't deny that this country is a beautiful country-it's also the place where mum and dad met during their first year of university. I consider London as their spot of love because this place has brought them together while New York has been a place that teared them apart.

''Don't you miss this place?'' I ask her.

I can feel her looking at me before I start to turn and see the emotions in her eyes, ''There are a lot of memories here in England and London is the very one of them. Your father and I met here, we spent our time here and we even declared our love here. You can pretty say that it sums everything. Emma, you should know that I still love your father but sometimes, it doesn't last forever.'' She replies.

''Don't be like me. I let the man that I love go. I want yours to last with happiness and love-no pretending needed. If things don't work out the way you have in mind or planned, just tell me and I'll get you of here as soon as possible.'' She adds, pulling me in to snuggle and I quickly respond by kissing her cheek.

I'm lucky to have a mother like her. This agreement has nothing to do with her, she doesn't force me into this. She may seem like she's choosing what's best for me and I guess that she wants me to try it out-probably I'll find love here and won't even seek for a new one back in New York.

Ever since my heart was broken terribly, I had no desire in dating. I want a love that lasts till the end of my breath instead of a love that can hardly make it through the first stage. I don't want a love where it's filled with lusts but a love where it's filled with specialities. Honestly, I may not be an expert in love but I have my own concept.

''We'll see soon enough,'' I mutter under my breath.

If only I have a sibling to pour my worries and sorrow, that would've been much better. Being the only child, it's not much of a joy sometimes. Yes, I can get anything I want because my parents love me very much that they'd risk everything but they also hope for everything when it comes to me. They have no other child to hope for.

As soon as I see a glimpse of the castle, I immediately feel attracted to it. The way it beholds its beauty from afar, it's quite mesmerising-truthfully, it feels like a fairytale but everything feels real and the world is not only filled with happiness and happily ever after. There are endings, pains, sorrows and problems that only the strongest one can overcome.

The car comes to a stop at the entrance of the castle before the royal chauffeur steps out, opening the door for mother and I. We both step out of the car, taking in the sight we both see with awe and respect. My eyes immediately focus on a woman with dark brown hair as she steps down from the stairs, a wide smile plastered on her face.

''Welcome, it's very lovely to finally meet you two.'' She says in her accent but by the way she talks and moves, it is full of poise. Then, her hazel eyes meet mine instantly, showing some sort of awe in them, ''Oh dear, you are a very beautiful young lady.'' She adds, grabbing onto my hand.

I smile back at her, feeling my cheeks heat up within seconds. Mother stands beside me as she looks at me with a smile-then we were both invited to step inside the castle, making us take the view much more further and deeper. As soon as we stepped inside the castle, we were speechless. Everything seemed beautifully arranged and expensive.

Now, we're in one of the rooms, where we're just standing in the middle.

''It's very rude of me not to introduce myself, I'm Queen Genevieve but you can just call me Genevieve. Apparently, my son is quite late than usual-it's very rare of him to act this way, my apologies.'' She speaks which I respond with a smile; not really knowing how I should react with a royalty but to only keep my manners well.

''I'm Julia and this is my daughter, Emma.'' My mother replies.

''Of course, I've known her existence ever since she was born.'' The queen-Genevieve says before she starts to look up at the door but I stay still, not really wanting to turn around and see if it's her son.

The sound of the two doors opening start to bother my heartbeat, making it faster than usual. I immediately look down at the ground, playing with my fingers as I do so, wanting to make it seem less awkward than it already is, ''Emery, you're late.'' She says, showing an unpleasant look on her face as the footsteps get closer.

''I'm sorry mother, I was out.'' He responds.

At the sound of his voice, it's deep and husky which can be listed in one of the attractiveness in men article I read a few months ago. Genevieve smiles as she looks at me, ''Emery, this is Emma.'' She says, gesturing for me to turn around but my skin goes ice cold-showing how nervous I am. It's not the fact that I'm scared if he won't like me but I'm scared of the sight I will see.

With full courage, I turn around, meeting a pair of light brown eyes looking back at me as he eyes my face. I manage to take a better look at his six foot two height and his well-built body because he seems to do the same but with a slight of respect. One word, gorgeous. That's all I can say at the sight of him.

Well, there's more. He's beautiful, gorgeous, handsome and very good-looking. I think all of those are categorised in the same way but I can't help it. Maybe Jace was right, coming here isn't a bad choice-I can actually meet the prince up close and take in his beauty. It might be weird for me to drool or stare at his face so I look down, breaking the eye contact.

''It's nice to meet you, Emma.'' He says with a small smile on his face. When he spoke my name, it felt like my whole body was being burned in fire. It glided off nice and I never seemed to have this much of an effect when it comes to people saying my name.

''Likewise.'' I reply.

The queen chuckles from behind, ''Now that's settled. Emery, would you care to show Emma around while Mrs. Parker and I have a little talk, getting to know each other.'' She says and I immediately look up at Emery-who seems to clench his jaw and fake a smile that I can very much notice.

''As you say, mother.''

I turn to look behind and see my mother and the queen has made their way towards the other door, leaving the room as they are having their conversation. Now, it's only Emery and I; the both of us are drowning in the ocean of awkwardness. He looks down at my five foot five height, ''Shall we?'' He says, pointing at the door.

I respond with a smile and we start to make our ways out, just walking down the big hallway. My eyes can never seem to look at him because I fear of getting caught; that would be very awkward. Even though we're walking side by side without uttering a single word, it feels like we're saying everything.

''I just came back from Melbourne a few days ago, I'm sorry if I'm a little bit off.'' He breaks the silence.

''It's alright. I have the same effect sometimes,'' I reply, glancing at his direction.

We continue to walk in silence once more until we enter a different room where there are paintings hung on the wall. It doesn't take me long to notice a painting of Emery-he seems slightly different but even in the painting, everyone can tell how attractive and ravishing he looks, ''That's you.'' I say.

He turns to look at his own painting, ''That's me, a couple of years ago.'' He replies.

I nod, only looking around the room without uttering anything. When I turn to look at Emery, I see him looking at the painting beside his but I keep quiet, not wanting to invade his privacy-it might make him dislike me more if he already has.

Surprisingly, our eyes meet once more but this time, I don't find the need to look away. We are staring into each other's eyes with thoughts in our head yet I can't really comprehend what those thoughts are. Even though my eyes are brown, yet I find his very warm and beautiful than any other brown eyes I've seen; including mine.

''I-'' We both say at the same time which causes both of us to keep quiet afterwards.

His lips are curved into a small smile, ''You first,'' He says.

''Well, just so you know, I was thinking really hard before I came here. If you think that I shouldn't be here, say it so I can leave. It wouldn't be much if I leave now because things won't be too complicated.'' I say and all he does is just looking at my face without saying anything for a few seconds.

''Your turn,'' I mutter after realising that he has not spoken a word.

''That's far from what I want to say.'' He replies, slightly smirking as I watch him taking a few steps towards the side-providing distance between us, ''I heard that you own a restaurant.'' He adds.

My eyes widen before chuckling which earns his attention at the sound of my laughter, ''Yeah I do in New York and it originally belongs to my dad but he gave it to me-so I run it now,'' I answer, eyeing his every movement, ''What about you?''

''I'm sorry to say that I'm not that kind of guy but I own the country if that impresses you.'' He smiles, making me chuckle once more. Honestly, I wouldn't think of being very casual with him-we're actually chatting like normal people and I seem to forget that he's royalty.

''That's the first,'' I mutter, realising that I'm actually speaking as if I've been with a lot of guys so I quickly look up at him-clearing my throat. It wasn't supposed to come out that way.

His brown eyes are staring into mine, ''Do I have to worry about other men courting you?'' He asks, lessening the distance between us by taking a few steps forward. Due to our heights, he is currently looking down at me but for some reason, our heights are more likely perfect.

We both end up staring at one another and I don't seem to mind either. Why would anyone mind if a charmingly beautiful prince stares at you for quite a long duration of time but you want to stare at him too and the best way is to just stare at each other? True. That's quite a statement. I thought.

''Do you intend on courting me?'' I ask.

''It won't take long,'' He replies.

Within seconds, the two doors are opened from the other side, causing both of us to turn and look-seeing a man in his suit stepping in, probably one of the guards, ''My apologies, Your Highness but the king requests for your presence.'' He says, earning a nod from Emery before stepping out.

Emery turns towards me once more, ''I'll see you around.'' He says and I reply with a nod as he starts to make his way towards the door, pulling it open before closing it behind him. I am left here standing all by myself until I decide to make my way towards the garden, unintentionally finding my way without trouble.

Once I reach there, my eyes widen immediately, surprised to see my mother standing near the door and has a playful smile on her face. I place a hand on my chest as a reaction, ''Oh shit, you scared me.'' I mutter in a hurry.

She laughs, ''You aren't easily scared, what's in your mind? How was he?'' She asks, pulling me close before closing the door and sitting on the nearest bench. We are both just looking at each other but from the look on her face, it shows that she had quite a pleasant conversation with the queen probably talking about an engagement or even marriage. That's just a wild guess.

''How was who?'' I raise an eyebrow, trying to cover up the sudden nervousness.

''Don't fool me, Emma. He must be very charming to have this kind of effect on you.'' She chuckles and I immediately feel my cheeks heat up in embarrassment-it's not due to Emery but being around Emery, it feels different. I'm not sure whether it's a good different or not and I can't seem to realise that. Staring into his brown eyes manage to make me feel lost because they are somehow filled with emotions and something else; something I can't comprehend.

When we were talking, I can't help but feel nervous around him even though I might seem like I'm alright. His presence brought feelings that I haven't felt for awhile; the last time I felt it was in high school with some guy, should've known he was a waste of time and tears.

Emery talked about courting and I can't be sure if he was serious or not because men tend to fool us around but instead of pushing me away or trying to take advantage, he actually said courting-which made me feel like I'm not even living in the twenty-first century.

''He's alright,'' I reply after minutes of being quiet.

''Just alright?''

I turn to look at my mother, ''Well, he's a prince so you can guess what he is like. He's charming but I'm just guessing that being charming is in his nature, he was raised that way. A royalty is always raised to be charming and respectful. He was like that when we talked,'' I say.

''That's quite true. We can hardly know if that was the true him or he was only pretending for the sake of his reputation.'' She agrees, looking at the fountain up front before letting out a deep sigh.

''Exactly.'' I mutter under my breath, ''How was your talk with the queen?''

''We talked about your engagement with Emery and how to make it public. It's going to be one hell of an engagement, Emma. You can actually kiss your privacy goodbye because it's a dangerous world with the press and all, trying to get a bad side of you and she also told me that everything goes on well, the wedding won't take long to happen.'' She replies.

I let out a humourless chuckle, ''We arrived for a few hours and she already talked about the engagement. That's quite blunt,'' I say.

''There will be a welcoming dinner tonight where the queen will invite a few of her friends including us. We're requested to come so that you can be seen with Emery-I can't say I agree but there's not much of an option.'' She breathes out, ''We're here now, might as well enjoy it before you make up your mind and start to run off.'' As she stands up, she starts to look down at me with teary eyes.

''Mum, why are you crying?'' I stand up, pulling her close.

''Please don't run off, Emma. Even if you don't want this engagement or wedding to happen, tell me so that we can leave as soon as possible but don't walk away and never see me again-that's not what I want. I don't force you to stay and fulfil what has been destined for you because I'm giving you a choice, you deserve to choose your own life. If you also think that this kind of life doesn't suit you and that you want to find your own kind of man to marry, I'm always here to support you.'' She looks into my eyes and I can't help but pull her for a hug.

''I'm not going anywhere,'' I whisper into her ear.

Once we head up to our rooms, I am surprised to see a big beige coloured box on the bed so I immediately make my way towards it before opening the box, seeing a dark red dress nicely placed in the middle with another small beige box and surprisingly, there are a set of earrings and a necklace-made from diamonds.

My lips curve up into a small smile, knowing the fact that red is definitely my colour.