The Royal In Love

Chapter 1

Yriana's POV

"That's because you'll be getting married next month-" My father's words made me choke on air! Everyone looked at me in shock.

"Yriana? Are you okay?" my older brother Yoran asked worriedly. I nodded, but my mind couldn't process what I had just heard.

"That's because you'll be getting married next month-"

"That's because you'll be getting married next month-"

The words echoed in my mind. I turned to my father in disbelief.

'A suitor one day, a husband the next? And at only twenty-four, I'm supposed to settle down into married life already?'

"Pa, you're joking, right?!" I forced a sarcastic smile, but my father simply laughed.

"Of course not! Hahaha! I'm serious," he said, his tone suddenly firm. I gripped the knife I was using to cut the meat even tighter.

"I don't agree with this," I said, standing abruptly. My tone was serious and barely contained my anger. My father's expression mirrored mine, growing stern as the room fell silent.

"You'll get married whether you like it or not," he said firmly. "Your mother and I have already decided. Show some respect-we're doing this for you-"

"For me? Whether I like it or not? Since when do you decide my fate?"

"Yriana!" my mother scolded, rising to her feet. I ignored her.

"Why do you always force things on me that I don't want? Even the person I'm going to marry-you get to decide!" I shouted, unable to hold back my frustration.

"Respect my decision, daughter! You're embarrassing us in front of our guests. You know our tradition!" my father bellowed, standing as well.

"F*** that tradition," I muttered under my breath. "You care more about that damn tradition than you care about me? My whole life!" My voice grew louder as I pointed to myself. "I'm suffocated by all your orders! It's always about what you want! Did you ever stop to think about how I feel?" Tears streamed down my face.

"Yriana," my older brother Willsen said worriedly, but I simply glared at him.

"Daughter, you'll be happy someday. I'm doing this for you and for the kingdom!" my father declared passionately. I responded with a sarcastic smile.

"No, Pa. You're doing this for yourself!" I snapped, not caring if I sounded disrespectful. Without another word, I stormed out, ignoring the concerned looks from the palace staff. I nodded absentmindedly when asked if I was okay.

I eventually found myself in the archery room.

"Your Highness, what are you doing here?" the guard asked, puzzled. "And why are your eyes swollen?"

"I'm here to train," I said flatly. "Don't mind this." I wiped my tears hastily and ordered the servant who had followed me to prepare my archery equipment.

"But Your Highness, your father specifically ordered-"

"I don't care," I interrupted. His mind isn't mine to control, anyway.

"Very well, Your Highness," the guard said formally, bowing as I entered the room. My equipment was already prepared, and I quickly changed into my training attire.

Once I was ready, I entered the archery room. Thankfully, it was empty. At least here, I could vent my anger. I stood before the archery target and began shooting. With every release of the arrow, I felt my frustration pour out, accompanied by tears.

"He wants me to marry for the kingdom? And for myself? Tss. Does everything I want have to go against what he wants?"

"Doesn't he realize I have dreams? Just because I'm a princess doesn't mean I have everything I want."

"Then again, I shouldn't be surprised. He probably thinks he owns everything just because he rules the kingdom."

I tried holding back my tears, but when my arrow hit the bullseye, I broke down, sobbing uncontrollably.

"But I have to do something. I can't just let this happen."

Suddenly, I heard a rustling sound.

"Who's there?" I called out, looking around. No one answered until...

"You're quite skilled at archery," a voice said from behind me.

I turned sharply to find Prince Kyzer standing there.

"Prince Kyzer?" I exclaimed, lowering my bow.

It was indeed him-the prince I was supposed to marry. He stood before the target I had been practicing on.

"Yes, it's me, Princess," he said formally but with a teasing smirk. I glared at him, raising my bow again and aiming it at him, narrowing my eyes.

"Woah, you're scary!" he said, feigning fear.

"What are you doing here?" I asked coldly. "Are you following me?" I moved the bow closer to him. He smirked.

"Forget what I said about him being serious. Tss."

"What if I said yes?" he replied, grinning. "By the way, why did you storm out earlier?" he asked curiously.

"You heard everything, didn't you? You have ears, don't you?" I released an arrow, which grazed the side of his face and hit the target dead center. I grabbed another arrow from my quiver.

"My father wants me to marry someone I don't even know," I said bitterly, releasing another arrow that hit the bullseye. "Someone I don't even love."

I turned to look at him, and for the first time, his expression turned serious.

---

Kyzer's POV:

I am Prince Kyzer Andrix Alvarez, better known as Kyzer Andrix of Sycernus. (This all happened before the earlier events, just so you know, haha.)

"Mom, where are we going?" I asked curiously as they prepared the carriage.

"I'll tell you later," she said with a smile, causing me to frown.

'Why not now? Tsk.'

I didn't press the matter and climbed into my carriage. My parents were in the one ahead of mine. After some time, the carriages stopped in a kingdom unfamiliar to me.

The attendant opened the door, and I stepped out, marveling at the kingdom's beauty.

"This kingdom is stunning," I thought, impressed.

My parents disembarked as well.

"Your Majesty, welcome to the Kingdom of Hymenaius," the emperor's right hand greeted warmly.

"What business do we have in such a beautiful kingdom?"

"Son, you're going to meet your future betrothed here," my father said, grinning.

"What? As in, someone I'll marry?"

"Dad, seriously?" I asked. "Why are you choosing for me when I can find someone myself?" I said, annoyed. They only laughed.

"Don't worry, you'll meet her soon," my mother said, chuckling. I took a deep breath to calm myself. Honestly, I wasn't entirely opposed-it was just shocking. Besides, they had a point. This arrangement might save me from women chasing me for my wealth.

"I just hope she's not a spoiled brat."

"Is this for real? Am I really seeing this?"

"Of course, you're seeing it," they replied.

"Is that Princess Yriana?" I asked, surprised, pointing to the group training nearby.

"Yes, Your Highness," they answered, which left me in awe.

What the heck?

"In my entire life, this is the first time I've seen a princess who knows how to wield a weapon," I exclaimed in disbelief.

"Even her father and the entire kingdom couldn't believe it when she decided to train with a sword," they said with a smile. I kept watching her, amazed by her skill.

I think I'm starting to take an interest in her.

What am I even saying?

"The Emperor was against her training with swords," they continued. "But because of Princess Yriana's determination to fight and defend the kingdom, she convinced her father to let her."

I couldn't take my eyes off her.

Tsk. Tsk. Tsk. A clever princess.

"Tell me more," I said absentmindedly.

"About what, Your Highness?" they asked, puzzled.

"Everything about the Princess. After all, we're set to be engaged," I said with a smirk, though my tone was serious. They stared at me for a moment before continuing to walk.

"Many have come here before you, Your Highness," they began. "Because of Princess Yriana's beauty and the wealth of her kingdom, suitors arrived daily-three or more at a time. But the Princess rejected every one of them, which led to her disagreements with the Emperor."

They added, "She's not like other princesses. Instead of putting on makeup and charming princes, she's out here training with her sword. Thanks to her two mentors, she's become incredibly skilled. I once asked her if she was afraid of arguing with her father, and do you know what she said? 'Tss. Is he a three-headed dragon that spits fire when he's angry? Ridiculous.' I didn't know whether to laugh or stay silent. Hahaha!"

Their laughter was contagious, and I chuckled as well.

Sir (out of respect, haha) was naturally talkative, so he shared even more stories about the Princess. We passed by her quarters and other parts of the palace.

"That's all for now, Your Highness. Apologies for my chatter," they said. I smiled, patting their shoulder.

"It's fine. Your chatter turned out to be quite helpful," I said with a grin, making them laugh. As we approached the dining hall, they added, "You're quite the joker, Your Highness. You should head in; the Emperor might be looking for you."

When we arrived, I saw my mother already there, but the Princess was still absent.

What's taking her so long? How many hours does she train?

"You're here, my son. Did you enjoy touring the palace?" my mother asked with a smile as I took my seat.

"With a palace this beautiful, how could I not? It's like paradise," I replied with a polite smile, making them laugh.

"You're such a charmer," Lady Yvina said with a chuckle, and I smiled at her.

"Father, isn't Yriana here yet?" asked her brother, Prince Yoran, I assumed.

"Not yet. That child's training takes forever-it's been over two hours now," the Emperor said, rubbing his face in frustration.

What? Two hours? And she's still not tired? When I watched her train, she didn't even seem worn out.

"Training? For what?" my father asked, curious.

"In swordsmanship, Your Majesty," Prince Willsen replied respectfully, shocking my parents.

"She trains with a sword? How remarkable!" my father exclaimed in surprise, while my mother looked equally astonished.

"Yes, but I don't approve of it. She's too young to wield weapons," the Emperor said with concern.

So that's why.

As the conversation continued, the Emperor's advisor announced that Princess Yriana was on her way. When she descended the grand staircase, she looked as dazzling as a diamond, her beauty enhanced by her attire.

Yriana Wynzill of Orientalis.

I couldn't help but stare at her. The Emperor brought up our engagement, and an argument broke out between him and the Princess. I couldn't believe how boldly she defied her father. It was clear she didn't want to marry me.

She's the kind of princess who doesn't need a prince to protect her.

"Ah, that stubborn child. Please forgive her for her rudeness," the Emperor said, exasperated.

"It's fine. We understand," my father replied with a smile.

An idea crossed my mind. I stood up and walked toward the path the Princess had taken.

"My son, where are you going?" my mother asked, startled.

"I'm going to follow the Princess," I replied formally, hastening my steps.

"What-?" I didn't hear the rest of her words as I had already walked far.

I don't know why, but I feel like I'm starting to admire her.

To Be Continued...

Chapter 2

Kyzer's POV

"Sir, who are they?" asked the guard. I saw Yriana enter this place, and I carefully followed her.

"I am Prince Kyzer of the Kingdom of Astrochelys," I formally replied.

"My apologies, Your Highness. I was mistaken. What brings you here?"

"I saw Princess Yriana pass through here. May I come in to speak with her?" I asked politely.

"Of course, Your Highness. The princess is in the archery room." Without further delay, I proceeded inside.

I saw her practicing archery relentlessly. I hid as I noticed her wiping away tears, probably because of the argument earlier.

Her anger was evident from how forcefully she shot her arrows. When one hit the bullseye (the author knows!), she suddenly collapsed to the floor and cried.

'I feel sorry for her.'

I moved instinctively, and she turned in my direction. Quick-witted as I am, I sidestepped to avoid her notice and quietly approached her from behind.

"You're quite skilled at archery," I said. She turned to me in surprise.

"Prince Kyzer?" she exclaimed and lowered her bow.

"Yes, Princess," I replied formally, though teasingly. She narrowed her eyes at me, picked up her bow, and aimed it at me, her gaze sharp.

'She's different from the princesses I've known.'

'Her eyes are as fierce as a wolf's.'

"Whoa, you're scary!" I said, pretending to be frightened.

'She might even fight better than me.'

"What are you doing here?" she asked seriously. "Are you following me?" She stepped closer with her bow still aimed at me.

"What if I said yes?" I smirked, then turned serious. "By the way, why did you leave earlier?"

"You already heard, didn't you? You've got ears, don't you?" She released an arrow that whizzed past my face, landing dead center on the target.

She grabbed another arrow from her quiver. "My father wants me to marry someone I barely even know," she said bitterly, firing another arrow that also hit the center.

"To someone I don't even love." She turned to me, and I grew serious.

'Why does that hurt to hear?'

'I shouldn't feel this way. I have no right.'

"But feelings can change," I said without thinking, stepping closer to her.

She stepped back, puzzled. I continued approaching and studied her face-her brown eyes, her straight nose, and her rose-tinted lips. She seemed like the most beautiful woman in the world.

I noticed a wall behind her (not the author, of course). I cornered her there. Her face showed a mix of nervousness and defiance.

"Change? How?" she asked, swallowing hard.

"With each day we spend under the same roof, your feelings will change little by little," I said, gazing into her eyes. She blushed.

"And what if I force myself to?" she asked, her eyes searching mine. I shook my head.

"You don't need to force it. It will come naturally, like flowers in a garden-they bloom when the time is right," I whispered in her ear, "just like what you're feeling now." She froze in shock.

Suddenly, we heard someone passing by, and we quickly straightened ourselves.

"Your Highness, it's time for you to rest. Ah, Prince Kyzer, you're here too. Your father is calling for you," said a smiling woman.

"I'll get dressed first, Miss Enna. Please go ahead," said Yriana as she left.

"Come, Your Highness. Let me accompany you. I know my way around here," said Miss Enna as we walked to my quarters.

"I am Miss Enna, the princess's caretaker," she introduced herself.

"It's an honor to meet you," I replied politely.

She stopped in front of a large family portrait.

"The emperor was overjoyed when they were blessed with a daughter. He never expected it."

"Why didn't he expect it?" I asked.

"Because, from their ancestors, no woman had ever been born into their family," she explained with a smile.

I was taken aback.

"So, please take care of her. Even if you feel nothing for her-"

"My heart is already learning to love her," I said seriously, gazing at her portrait.

'I'm not sure, but I think I'm falling for her.'

'I won't stop myself because it's what I want.'

A smile spread across my face at that thought.

I was heading to my room. The palace was so vast, it required patience to navigate its halls and corners. When I arrived, I saw my brother, Willsen, standing on my balcony, gazing at the soldiers training below.

"Princess Yriana has arrived," someone announced. I walked over to Willsen, who didn't take his eyes off the scene below.

"Why did you leave? Don't you know it's disrespectful for a princess to leave a banquet without permission? And as if that wasn't enough, you argued-"

"Are you here to lecture me?" I asked irritably.

"Is that what you think?"

"Yes!"

"I'm just advising you," he said with a smirk, calming me down.

"Where's Yoran?" I asked.

"He's training to be the next emperor," he replied.

My eldest brother Yoran, being the firstborn, was the natural heir. While he trained for leadership, Willsen led the soldiers. If neither of them could, I stepped up to lead.

"Do you have any idea?" I asked seriously.

"About what?" he turned to me.

"The marriage," I said bitterly.

"Honestly, no. Father told us before the guests arrived," he replied.

I sighed deeply. "Everything I do, he opposes. Even the choice of who I'll marry-he decides for me," I said bitterly.

"Why can't he let me choose someone I'll love?" My voice cracked. "I envy the princesses in stories who find their own happy endings with the ones they love." I looked at my brother, tears streaming down my face.

"I'm a princess too."

"Why don't I deserve a happy ending?" I sobbed, collapsing into a chair.

"Yriana..." Willsen tried to comfort me.

'I want to fall in love. The kind of love where your hearts leap every time you meet. A love that makes you want to marry, not because of an agreement, but because of mutual affection.'

"Tahan na, Yriana. Don't worry, I'm here. Should I call Yoran-"

"No, he'll just worry-"

"Yriana!" Yoran's voice startled me as he rushed to my side.

"Why are you crying?" he asked, concerned. I couldn't answer and just hugged him tightly.

"Nothing, really," I said, wiping my tears.

"And you," he pointed at Willsen, "what are you doing here?"

"I was just visiting Yriana," Willsen said with a smile.

"Prince Willsen, the soldiers are ready for training," his lieutenant called out.

"I'll be there shortly," Willsen said and excused himself.

I entered my room, and Yoran followed.

"Yriana, you should rest for now," he advised.

'I just want to be alone.'

"Could you leave me for a while?" I asked.

"Alright, Your Highness," the attendants said as they left.

"Yoran, please, just for now," I pleaded, and reluctantly, he left, closing the door behind him.

I stared blankly at the ceiling, the memory of Kyzer's words echoing in my mind.

"You'll feel it naturally, like flowers in a garden-they bloom in their own time."

'Didn't he realize how much those words affected me?'

'Wait, why am I letting it affect me?'

I thought about the marriage.

'I won't let them decide my fate.'

'There's only one thing I can do.'

Yriana's POV

I started packing my things. Yes, I've decided to leave my life in the palace. I'm utterly exhausted. I don't want to stay here any longer.

I gathered my belongings. For a long time, I wanted to escape, but my conscience about the kingdom always held me back. Now, my decision is firm. I cut my hair short, dressed entirely in black-a black tank top, leggings, jacket, and black rubber shoes. I only brought essential items and, of course, my bow and sword, an heirloom from my grandmother.

Once ready, I headed to the door.

"Good, no one's here," I muttered with a smirk and carefully snuck out, ensuring none of the servants noticed me. I made my way to the main gate, where two guards stood watch. As I approached, they blocked my path.

"Your Highness, where are you going?" one of them asked. I ignored them and quickly bolted.

"Princess! Your father will punish you for this!" they shouted as they chased after me.

"Leave me alone!" I screamed, running even faster. When I glanced back, I saw that more guards had joined the pursuit.

I was near the gate when-

"Yriana!" My brother's voice startled me. I turned and saw him leading the chase.

"Just let me go!" I yelled as I sprinted away.

"You know that's not possible, Yriana!" my brother Willsen shouted back.

I used every trick I could to lose them, weaving through paths until I finally felt safe. I hid behind a wall, gasping for breath.

That was probably the fastest I've ever run. I rested my head against the wall and looked up at the darkening sky.

'They won't see me now, not with these black clothes,' I thought.

But still, no matter how hard I tried, I couldn't escape them.

"You're really fast, huh?"

I froze at the familiar voice. My body stiffened.

I know that voice.

When I turned to the side, I saw him-Prince Kyzer.

"What the...!" I stepped back in shock.

"Why do you look so scared? You weren't like this when we first met," he said with a smirk.

"Waahhhh-!" I tried to scream, but he covered my mouth.

"Don't shout; they'll hear you," he whispered harshly.

I pushed his hand away. "Why are you following me, Prince Kyzer?" I asked sarcastically.

"To make sure you're safe. I heard there are bandits around here," he replied nonchalantly. I rolled my eyes.

"I can handle a few bandits," I said confidently, making him chuckle.

"I thought you already went home," I said.

"We're leaving tomorrow afternoon," he replied, his gaze drifting to my outfit.

"Why are you running away?" he asked bluntly.

I sighed, looking up at the dark sky. "Because of the wedding, I guess."

"It's not just the wedding," I admitted. "But yes, that's part of it. I'm tired of my father's decisions controlling my life. It feels like I'm trapped. I can do some things I want, but only within limits. It's suffocating." I paused, sensing his eyes on me. "But no matter what I do, even if I run away, I'll eventually have to face it. Maybe this is just my fate," I added with a bitter laugh.

"Why does it seem like you're unbothered by it?" I asked.

"Unbothered by what?" he asked, confused.

"By following orders you don't want to, and agreeing to marry me. I even expected you to treat me horribly, yet here you are, talking to me and being playful despite my attitude," I said in one breath. He smiled.

To Be Continued...

Chapter 3

"Well, I don't mind the things they ask me to do. Honestly, I'm not even sure why. When my mom told me about the wedding, I didn't feel angry or upset. I don't know why, but I can't bring myself to be mad at you," he confessed.

His words made me feel like the worst princess in the world.

'Ugh, Yriana, you're such a fool!'

"But I understand you. Still, running away from your life in the palace is wrong," he said seriously..

I shrugged. "It's dangerous out here, and many people would want to harm you. You know how people's minds work," he added.

"Yeah, you're right," I admitted, resting my head on his shoulder without thinking. He seemed startled.

"Maybe I just need to accept it, even if it's hard," I whispered, gazing at the sky.

"Don't worry, you won't regret marrying me," he said seriously.

"How can you be so sure?" I asked.

He smiled and draped an arm around my shoulder.

"Like I said, your feelings will change once we're under the same roof. I'll make you feel what a woman like you truly deserves," he said.

Before I realized it, my eyes had closed. He gently stroked my hair.

"I hope so," I murmured.

'Maybe I really can be happy with him.'

"Don't worry, Yriana. I'll take care of you, no matter what. One day, you'll love me too, mi amor," he whispered

Willsen's POV

"Yriana!!" I shouted as we continued searching for her.

"What the heck?! Where is she?!" Yoran yelled in frustration. "Yriana!!!"

I glanced up at the sky-it was already dark. The guards informed us that she had run away from them. They also mentioned she was wearing all black, clothes that were entirely unsuitable for the palace.

Yriana? Where are you?

"This is my fault! I shouldn't have left her alone in her room!" Yoran cried out in regret.

The truth was, we had no idea she was planning to escape her life in the palace. I couldn't think of a reason why she would do such a thing. Only one thought came to my mind.

"It's because of the marriage arranged by Father," I muttered absentmindedly.

Yoran turned to look at me. "That's the only reason I can think of for her leaving," I said seriously. We locked eyes for a moment.

"Let's split up so we can-"

"No need," we froze at the sound of a familiar voice. Turning around, I was stunned to see...

It was Prince Kyzer, carrying Yriana, who was fast asleep!

Yoran even took off his glasses in shock. We approached him quickly.

"I'll explain everything later. For now, she needs to rest," Kyzer said. Yriana was peacefully asleep in his arms as we all started heading back to the palace.

"Are you okay? Isn't she heavy?" I asked, noticing he seemed burdened.

"I'm fine," he replied curtly and continued walking ahead.

Well, at least she's safe with him. I glanced at Yoran, who was glaring at Kyzer.

"Hey, stop worrying. Yriana's fine now. What's bothering you?" I asked Yoran in confusion.

"I don't trust that prince," he said seriously.

"And what can you do about it? Their marriage has been arranged-it's their decision. You have no power to stop it. Besides, I doubt he'd hurt Yriana-"

"What if he's not a good person?"

"If he's bad, then why would he bring Yriana back? Think rationally, Yoran," I said firmly.

"Fine," Yoran sighed heavily. "But if he ever hurts Yriana, I won't hesitate to send him to an early grave," he said, his words making my eyes widen.

Is he joking?

Knowing Yoran, if he says something, he means it. He'll find a way to follow through, even if it's a matter of life and death.

"Are you serious about what you just said?" I asked, startled. "Don't forget he's a prince-"

"Tss. Who cares?"

"But-"

"You know me, Willsen. I can't stand it when the people I love are hurt."

"I understand you-"

"Then that's the end of it," he said as he walked toward the door. I hadn't even realized we'd arrived back.

Stubborn as ever!

His attitude is so frustrating!

"Your Majesty, they've arrived," a voice snapped me back to reality.

"The King is waiting in the hall, Your Highness," one of the attendants said. I headed to the hall, where I saw Prince Kyzer still carrying Yriana. Everyone was already aware of what happened.

"Thank you, son. If not for you, my daughter might have left for good. Take her to her room," Father instructed.

"There's no need. I'll take her myself," Kyzer said. I smiled to myself, relieved that Yoran wasn't around.

"Oh, alright," Father said with a smile.

"I'll come with you," I volunteered, surprising everyone. But Father agreed, so I accompanied Kyzer to Yriana's room, followed by a few attendants.

---

A Few Minutes Later:

"How did you find her?" I asked curiously.

"I didn't look for her. I followed her," Kyzer replied with a smile, glancing at the sleeping Yriana.

Followed her?

"Why were you following her?" I asked, intrigued.

"I don't know why, but I just felt the urge to. Maybe I was worried about her," he admitted.

"Mmm... I see," I nodded. "But I want to clarify something," I said seriously as we neared her room.

"What is it?"

"Do you have feelings for her?" I asked, and he froze.

"Please understand, I'm asking because my sister's emotions are at stake-"

"I like her," he interrupted.

I was stunned by his response. We arrived at her room, and he gently laid her down on the bed.

"Ever since I first saw her, I've admired her. She's different from all the princesses I've met. I won't deny my feelings... because I want to embrace them," he said, gazing at my sister's face.

Yriana's POV

I woke up to the light streaming into my room.

This is my room.

How did I get here?

I sat up, still disoriented.

"Sweetheart, you're awake!" I didn't notice the door open. It was Mother.

"Mother? How did I get here?" I asked, surprised. She sat beside me on the bed.

"Who brought me here?"

"Calm down, dear."

"Mother, please tell me-"

"It was Prince Kyzer who brought you back to the palace," she said, and I froze.

I remember falling asleep on his shoulder.

How embarrassing!

"You're awfully quiet. Are you embarrassed because he carried you all the way to your room?"

"What?!" I exclaimed in shock.

He brought me here himself?

"Go on, take a bath," she said, cutting off my questions. I decided not to push further and prepared myself.

An attendant was brushing my hair when Mother asked, "May I do that instead?"

"Of course, Your Majesty," the attendant said, handing her the brush. Mother gently brushed my hair.

"I can't believe you've grown so much. You used to be just a baby in my arms, and now you're a young lady," she said with a smile. "Promise me you'll never cut your hair, no matter what happens."

"I promise, Mother," I replied.

"Let's go, dear."

As we walked, I asked, "Mother, is it true? Did he really bring me here?"

"Yes. But why did you leave last night? Are you upset with your father?" she asked directly.

"Should I have a reason to be happy?"

"Watch your mouth, Yriana," she scolded. "At least respect your father's decision."

Sigh. I guess I have no choice.

We arrived at the dining hall moments later. Everyone was already there, and I noticed an empty seat beside Kyzer. I let out a small sigh and sat down.

"Let's eat," Mother said.

While they talked, Father suddenly asked, "When's the wedding?"

Startled, I dropped my spoon, drawing everyone's attention.

"Are you alright, dear?" Lady Arry asked.

"I'm fine, Your Grace," I replied formally.

"You're too formal. From now on, call me Mommy," she said with a smile. "And him, Daddy."

"B-but-"

"It's alright with her, Mom, Dad," Kyzer interjected with a grin.

"Good, then," Father said. "The wedding will be next month-two days from now, to give Yriana time to adjust."

You're rushing me already!

"This is for the kingdom and for both of you. Understood?" Father asked, looking at us.

"Yes," we replied in unison.

---

After the meal, I excused myself to go to the garden. While enjoying the breeze, someone joined me-it was Kyzer.

"Are you following me even here?" I asked, annoyed.

"Leave us," he instructed the attendants, who obeyed. "Why? Is it forbidden?"

"Yes, it is!"

"I'll follow you wherever you go," he said confidently.

"What are you, a guardian angel sent from heaven to protect me?"

"I'm no guardian angel, but I can protect you," he said, leaning closer. "Not because it's my mission or someone told me to, but because it's my responsibility... and what my heart wants."

I froze, unable to move.

"What-"

Tsupp!

He kissed me on the cheek!

I couldn't move. It felt like the world had stopped.

Why does it have to be him? Fate, why?!

To be continued...