Two days. It has been two long days since I have last spoken to or seen Mary. Our last encounter was interesting in the least. Actually, no. It was not interesting, it was painful. Seeing my brother, someone I trusted and admired, kissing my fiancé was more than painful. I can't bring myself to confront them about it, because honestly, I'm afraid that she will chose him. I guess I can't blame her if she does.
Bash has always been more passionate, more adventurous, and more alive. In fact, these are the qualities about him that I admire the most. If Bash wants to do something, he does. If Bash wants to learn something, he does. Mary must admire him for those qualities as well. Bash is taller and stronger. Maybe, just maybe, he could even protect her more.
I look out the window to see them walking together. Their dark hair and porcelain skin even match. I feel an ache in the pit of my stomach. It hurts me to look at them, but I can't seem to move my eyes away. They walk towards to lake. With all the force I can muster, I punch the concrete wall in front of me. My eyes are still glued to them, I don't even have the desire to inspect the stake of my knuckles. I lose them in the bushes. I was so focused on them that I didn't even notice the throbbing pain from my swollen knuckles. However, it's nothing compared to the pain I feel in my heart.
For a minute I contemplate giving up. I don't have the heart to completely abandon Mary, because I know her country needs France. But we can still have an alliance, even if the marriage is just for show. She can be happy with Bash and I'm sure that, eventually, her happiness will suffice for me as well. I think about Mary, and all the times we had together. All the memories coming back to me in flashbacks. Running up the stairs as children, jumping on the bed with feathers flying everywhere, dancing together at the ball, reminiscing our childhood during the picnic, our first kiss before I told her to marry Tomas, our secret rendezvous by the lake. With all these memories flying through my head, I come to a conclusion. Our relationship will never be easy, but I will make damn sure that it will be worthwhile.
It is obvious that Bash is a great man, but I am even greater. I can't go frolicking around the woods, because I have responsibilities. I am a man that can handle the responsibility that comes with being a great husband. Although I'm not as strong or tall, I can protect Mary because unlike Bash, I will do whatever it takes to keep her safe. Hell, in the short time she has been here I have manipulated my father, threatened my mother, and killed a man all for her! With the little freedom I have, I do my best to develop my own skills. I know how to make my own blades, a skill that I was not required to learn by any means. I am determined, I am loving, I am not selfish, I am caring, and I have a good heart. One day I will be a great King and an even better father.
I will win Mary's heart, because deep down, I know she sees that I am the man for her. She will marry me, not only for the alliance but for love as well.