Astrana's POV:
"What do you want?" My finger pluck the flower tearing it from the stem. "Was the yelling before not enough?" To think he can humiliate me in front of my friends like that. Seriously, does he think because he's the older one he gets to snap at me like that? I didn't even get to scold him about calling me a prostitute! This time, he's going to get it for sure!
"I'm sorry."
I grit my teeth. You think it's that easy? "Why don't you go and…" My eyes widen as a man kneels on one knee in front of me. A gardenia appears in his hands as I blink. What…
"I'm sorry for yelling at you, Astra." Gold and silver eyes drift down at the floor of the gazebo. "I know now that I wasn't taking your feelings into consideration. I should have never yelled at you and if you want to yell something back, please do so. I won't say a word."
He won't say a word?
My eyes narrow as my lips curve upwards into a smirk. "You won't interfere?"
"I won't."
"No matter what I say?"
He shakes his head. "As I said, I shouldn't have shouted."
"Does that mean you admit you're inferior to me?"
"Inferior?" A laugh rings through my ears. "Oh no. You listen here-"
My body tenses as a murderous aura emits from the bushes not far from us. Where is that aura coming from? I glance in the direction of the aura. Huh… so that's why… I guess mom loves me as well. Considering she's emitting such a deadly vibe towards her precious son and all. Hahaha! Who knew my all and powerful brother is afraid of my mother?
"I'm sorry."
"Answer the question, older brother." I cross my legs leaning back into my seat. "Does that mean you're admitting you are inferior to me?"
Hm, My eyes narrow as the guy kneeling lets out a breath. "No one is superior or inferior. We're siblings as well as twins." Trying to avoid it huh?
"Then I must've been imagining things but didn't you say you were superior to me?"
"I didn't mean it-"
"Oh?" I place a hand under my chin. "I must've gone crazy then. Gee, are you sure you didn't mean it?"
"It was during the heat of the moment."
"I don't know." My eyes trail to his figure. "You were pretty calm about asserting your authority over me."
Gold and silver eyes look directly into mine. "Astrana, I'm kneeling and apologizing to you. What more do you want?"
"Kneeling?" I raise a brow as my hand waves. "You're only on one knee. I hardly consider that kneeling."
He opens his mouth to protest but I cut him off. "Kneeling with both knees to the ground is kneeling. One knee is nothing special."
"But-"
"Oh wait," I cover my mouth stifling a laugh. "You're the Crown Prince. You have never kneeled with both knees in your life." Mom and dad exempted us from that rule long ago."I guess I should be happy to have my eldest brother, who is also the one and only prince, kneel before his insignificant younger sister. Shouldn't I?"
He blinks every few seconds staring at me as he closes his eyes. "I'm sorry for saying you are inferior to me." Beautiful eyes open locking into mine. "You are not inferior as I am not superior. We are equals."
Does he really mean that?
"However, if you want me to admit I am inferior, I will do that."
"Really?"
"Yes."
Choices. So many choices here. Should I get him to admit that? It would bring my anger down about this however… "Spend the day with me."
He blinks as I take the flower from his hands with a smile. "You heard me." I lean my body closer so that my mouth is beside his ear. "Unlike you, I have no intentions in asserting my authority and humiliating you in front of our friends." I glance at another bush nearby as it rustles from their movements. Not to mention if he admits it, my world would automatically turn upside down. That would not be pleasant whatsoever. Besides, I have no desire to be superior. He's my older by a few seconds twin not to mention the Crown Prince. He has always been superior. I lean back crossing my ankles. "What do you say, brother? Want to spend the day with me?"
The man in front of me blinks blankly as he snaps from his stupor. "Is that all you desire?"
"Yup!" I shoot him a bright smile. "We haven't spent time together recently so I'm asking you again, do you want to go to the mall with me?"
Fifteen minutes later:
"Hey look!" I shout as my hand drags his hand. "Thankfully it's still opened!" Hehe, this should teach him a lesson.
"Where are we even going?" The being behind me voices sipping his vanilla milkshake from earlier. "You've dragged me into every clothing store there is."
"Not every." He raises a brow as I point towards the sign. All the color from his face diminishes instantly as he chokes. I'm etching this to memory. "I've been needing a few apparels so-"
"I'm going to wait out here."
"What?" A laugh escapes my lips. "No, silly. You're coming in with me."
"You expect me to step foot in a lingerie store?!"
"Okay. First of all," I place my hands on my hips. "It's more than a lingerie store. They sell plenty of clothing and secondly, you owe me this for calling me inferior."
"But-"
"Or did you not mean what you said when you apologized?"
He opens his mouth then shuts it, pursing his lips then opening it once more. "Astrana, anything you can buy from this store, you can get it tailor made by the-"
"I know but I like going to Victoria Secret." It's fun to see all the items on sale while watching you squirm internally hoping none of the beings recognize you.
"Then you go in by yourself. I'll stay out here and-"
"I need you to sit and guard by the fitting room."
"Don't they have locks?"
"Yes but I'll feel more secure with you outside."
"How does that even-"
"What if the locks don't work? Do you want some guy to walk in and see me naked?"
His eyes widen. "What? Of course not. What are the chances that will-"
"It might happen." I clasp his hand in mine. "Do you want your twin sister to experience that kind of humiliation? Not to mention, it will definitely damage my fragile mentality." A gasp rings out my lips. Time for the kicker. "If that happens, it may affect me so much that I will develop a fear of men. What if I won't be able to get a boyfriend or get married because of it?"
"Your overreacting-"
"Then mommy will blame you because you failed to protect me." I swing his arm back and forth sporting a pout. "By then, I'll be old and lonely. Everyone around me probably gotten married at that point yet I am here all alone without a husband all because of you were too concerned with your reputation to enter this store and protect your sister!"
…
The man in front of me stares at the sign then back at me staying silent for a couple of minutes. "Sis, you're being ridiculous."
"Oh yeah? Then tell me, why do you refuse to go in with me?" My brows furrow as I fold my arms over my chest. "If it's not because of your reputation, then what is it?"
He blinks shifting his eyes side to side as I stare at him expectantly. "Ok. Maybe it is that. However-"
"See? What are you so embarrassed about? It's just a store. Besides, you're married. What's such a big deal about seeing underwear?"
"I'm a guy! It's going to be me in a lingerie store packed full of women!"
"Who said guys can't enter the store?" I glance at the store. "I don't see any signs stopping you from entering."
"Don't you understand-"
"I don't. I don't understand why you can't put away your pride and go-"
"I'm the Crown Prince. Everything I do represents The Royal Family. If someone recognizes me in there, it's game over." He whispers as he defaults to his neutral expression. "Mine and The Royal Family's reputation's will be tarnished if someone happens to recognize me in that dreaded store. Did you happen to think of that?"
Oh…
"Oh come on, Lucky." I hold his right hand with a pout. "What are the chances someone will recognize you?"
"Must I remind you I'm not in disguise? There's a high chance someone might-"
"Then put in some contacts." Oh yeah… "Never mind. Just put on sunglasses and a hat." That works in movies.
"But-"
My eyes narrow as I pull his collar close to my face. "You owe me this. You're the one who called me inferior. You're the one who said you're willing to spend the day with me. All of this is your fault so you have to go in there with me."
Gold and silver eyes stare into mine. "Fine but don't you dare use my real name in there."
My threat actually worked?!
"Gotcha, Adrikins!" I peck his cheek. "Anywho, let's go."
"Wait. Hold it." A hand pulls me back as I blink. Huh? He materializes a comb and a bottle of gel. "Hold this."
"What are you-"
I hold his milkshake as he rubs the gel between his fingers, raking through his hair evenly then pushing it backwards so there is a bit of volume on the top of his head. "Comb."
Oh wow…
He takes the comb and works it through his hair. Huh… I know this style… ah-ha! It's called a Quiff! No wonder it looks so familiar. It's somewhat close to his everyday style but more slicked back and shiny. "You should style you hair more often."
"I'm doing this because of you." My brother mumbles with a sigh as he finishes up on his hair. "You better tell no one. Got it?"
I roll my eyes as he digs through the bag I'm holding to find his sunglasses. "You look really good with that hairstyle though." It makes him look even more intimidating. As if he's apart of the mafia or something.
"Did I mention I hate gel?" He sticks out his tongue in disgust. "Remind me to buy pomade and wax."
Ah… so that's why… "But why?" I pat his head furrowing my brows. Oh. "You look really dashing with your hair styled like this."
"I don't like to feel products in my hair. So gel is a no go. Plus, it makes it not as soft." It also gives the wet but dry look too.
"Won't pomade and wax do the same thing?"
He shakes his head. "Pomades and waxes are more pliable and moldable. It leaves the hair soft and manageable without the product buildup."
Makes sense.
Five minutes later:
I glance at the guy sitting at the bench to the side of the fitting rooms. He seems occupied now. My brother crosses his legs while leaning back against the wall reading a magazine. Darn it. How am I supposed to make him feel uncomfortable when he's so absorbed in that magazine? Hm…
"Excuse me," Someone taps my shoulder as I blink swerving my head to meet a woman a few years older than me.
"Yes?"
Hazel eyes stare into mine. "I… I hope you don't take this the wrong way but," She glances at the guy sitting on the bench then back to me. "Your husband is really handsome."
I have a husband? I stare at her blinking every few minutes. Huh?
"P-Please don't take it the wrong way!" She stammers waving her arms in front of her chest. "I-I'm not hitting on him or anything but I just happen to find you two make lovely couple that's all."
Husband? I shift my eyes around the store as what she said clicks into my brain. Oh no. Not again! What's with people mistakenly thinking my brother and I are a couple? We look identical! I'm like the girl version of him!
"Do you mean the guy reading the magazine?" I point at him as she nods.
"Yes. You are a very lucky lady, miss."
Lucky? You call being mistaken for his wife a lucky thing? "Why didn't you say that to him? Why go to me?"
"Oh it's just," She leans close to my ear. "He seems very intimidating." Indeed.
I stifle a laugh shaking my head slowly. "He is, isn't he?"
Her hazel eyes drift to my body then back to the guy sitting on the bench. "Are you newlyweds?"
Lets just go along and see where this takes me. "Mhm."
"Splendid!" A hand grabs mine as I follow her to the back room. "We just got new lingerie. Since you're newlyweds, why not pick something out for the bedroom?"
B-Bedroom?!
My eyes automatically widen as I glance back towards my brother who is still oblivious to our interaction. What is he reading that's so-
"Now, no need to be shy." A giggle rings through my ears. "The best way to keep a guy like him is to seduce him."
Seduction? Yea right. The only being he finds seductive is Lily. I'm willing to bet a million bucks he'll gag if I wear these revealing garments in front of him.
"No, I think I-"
"I'll throw in a buy two get one free!"
"Get one free?"
She nods as I place a hand under my chin. "Hm," I just thought of a way to make him squirm.
Astral's POV:
"Hey," My sister walks up to me as I snap the magazine shut. "Ready to go?"
Great timing. It was getting boring reading about gossip. Who knew celebrities nowadays are involved in dating scandals. I mean really. Is it that hard for beings to be friends? Why do people always assume two individuals walking together a couple or something?
A finger pokes my nose. "What's gotten you in such a rush?" She holds up a pink-laced bra with a tiny smirk. "What do you think?"
"About…" She's not asking what I think she's asking me… right?
"This." The woman in front of me holds it to her chest batting her eyelashes. "How do you think it would look on me?"
"How would I know?" Wait a minute… why is she asking me this personal question? Hm, does she not know her size? Now that I think about it, she's probably a c cup and that bra is most likely going to-what the?! I internally shake my head. Woah. What am I thinking?!
"Well," She winks pecking my cheek pulling back with a smile. What's with her smile? "Just wait and see, honey."
Honey? I furrow my brows as she enters the fitting room. She never… calls me honey. It's always Lucky, older brother, bro, buba when she was younger at least but honey? Huh… My eyes drift to the magazine again as it displays a model on the bed wearing basically nothing. I turn it face downwards letting out a breath. What's up with these magazines? They're probably the reason why I had that weird thought about her. These things are a bad influence! That's got to be it.
"Adrien," A voice rings through my ears as I turn to the fitting room.
"What?"
"I can't seem to figure out how this works." She can't figure out how to wear a bra? Huh… speaking of which, how do ladies put them on? Do they just have amazing flexibility to be able to latch the latches behind their back?"Can you come here and help me?"
My entire body goes rigid as I blink blankly at the door. Did… did she just say… no. I shake my head. I must've heard wrong. Gosh, reading trashy magazines have done nothing good for me. "I'm… pretty sure you can figure it out." I must be hearing things.
"I just need help zippering this up." Zippering? A bra has zippers?!
"Why are you asking me?" I cross my legs rubbing my eyes. Why does it still hurt this much? Shouldn't my regeneration power kick in already? Or is this not a serious enough injury?
"Honey, come on. I need help."
There she goes with that name again. Honestly, why is she-
"Go help her."
Huh?
A woman a few years older than me sports a slight smile. "No need to be embarrassed. Just go and help your beloved."
My… My what…?
"Look, if you mind all the people in this store, you're never going to get anything done." My eyes shift to the many ladies at the store browsing the items on sale. "I'm the store manager and I say it's totally appropriate for a husband to help his wife in the changing room."
My… wife?!
Astrana's POV:
Hahahaha!
The guy in front of me shuts his eyes tightly crossing his arms. "You have some explaining to do."
"What's there to explain, Adrikins?"
"Honey," He lets out a sigh as I gulp. Uh-oh… I know that tone. "Care to explain why the manager thought I was your husband?"
I purse my lips raising a brow. "Weren't you?"
"When was I ever-"
"We had an arranged marriage to unify both sides."
"More like a forced marriage."
He mumbles as a giggle escapes my lips. "We were married after all. You were my husband."
"Yes but that didn't count-"
"Why didn't it count? I've been wondering this for quite some time now but why didn't it count?"
"You're my sister…"
"No. Like before you knew I was your twin. Why didn't it count? I mean I got married to you legally and-"
"We were strangers. We barely knew anything about each other."
"So? Plenty of marriages are arranged marriages. What makes us so different?"
"You're my-"
"Of course I know I'm your sister but we got married. On the soap operas I watched, strangers become lovers over a series of obstacles-"
"Sis, real life is not like a soap opera." My brother lets out a breath shifting his weight onto his other leg. "Besides, it didn't matter if I didn't know you were my sister back then. No offense but I felt no romantic attraction towards you."
Ow… getting rejected by my own brother. I don't like him that way either but still… that stings a bit.
I wave a hand rolling my eyes. "That's because you were in love with Lily. If you weren't," This gives me a great idea! "I would've made you fall head over heels for me."
"Yeah. Good luck with that."
"Hey!" I punch his shoulder as he rubs it. "You're being really mean lately." First, calling me a slut and now this? Has he always been this mean?
His shoulders shrug. "I promised my wife I would try not to lie."
"So that gives you the right to say things without a filter?" My left eye twitches as I resist the urge to strangle him. Me a prostitute? As if!
"Why are you getting so worked up?"
"Maybe because you called me a prostitute in front of everyone?" I throw my arms up as he stands there. "Ever think of that, genius?"
"What's so wrong with that? I say it like I see it. You were wearing such a revealing costume and you looked like a prostitute so I-"
"Don't you dare finish that sentence!" My face heats up as I narrow my eyes. To think he would use such a word to describe me. I shut my eyes deeply breathing in and out. Just breathe, Astrana. No need to be angered by the likes of him.
"I still don't see what's wrong with it."
"You!" My left arm points in his direction as I grit my teeth. Calm yourself. Just… breathe."Are you intentionally trying to get on my nerves?"
"Am I?"
Oh sure. Acting all innocent is your specialty.
I let out a breather as I gulp. Time to put my plan into motion. "Just curious but why are you closing your eyes?" He stays silent as I carefully hug his chest, wrapping my arms around his waist. I can't believe I'm about to do this. "What? Can't handle seeing your sister naked?"
"Astrana,"
"Hm," I press my body against his as one of my hands touch his left cheek. "Such a shame really. If you would open your eyes," The higher ups, if you're happen to be listening, I am so sorry. "I can show you the wonders of the world." That's a good way to put it… right?
"Let go of me. Do you have any idea what you're doing?" A calm voice rings through my ears as I poke his nose. "You know what you're insinuating is taboo not to mention illegal, right?"
"Oh? What am I insinuating, my handsome brother?" I giggle as my arms wrap around his neck loosely. "Be real with me Astral." My voice lowers into a whisper as I glance at the door. Luckily the door is locked. "I seen the way you look at me. The way you always help me, pat me on the head, your gestures towards me are far different than someone who sees me as a sister."
"That's because you're my only sister. I'm supposed to look after you."
"We're twins." I blink as his eyes shut tighter. "You don't need to look after me." I'm the one who should be looking out for you instead. Wait, why are we talking about this? Darn it. He always can steer the conversation his way for some apparent reason. "That's not what matters right now, honey." I cup the sides of his face. "Are you sure you don't feel anything for me?"
"As in romantic attraction?"
"Yes."
"No." His hands lands on my shoulders. "However, if you talk about physical attraction," Huh? Gold and silver eyes stare at my face. "Then yes."
W… What?!
My throat tightens as he pushes me to the wall. His arms pinning my wrists as I try to wiggle them free. "What do you think you're doing? Let me go this instant!"
"Why are you being this way?" A smirk crosses his lips. "Wasn't this what you wanted to happen?"
"I…" Yes but not like this! I should be the one who's making him uncomfortable not the other way around!
"Now that I look at you," I gulp as his face leans close to my face. "You really are attractive, my dear sister."
"Y-You're too c-close." Why am I stammering? He's my brother. I should not be stuttering but why? Why does my face feel so warm? Wait a minute, don't tell me I actually like him romantically?! Ew! No way. I refuse to believe that. "M-Move a bit, will you?"
"Move?" He tilts his head slightly. "Why's that? Didn't you say you find me handsome?"
"I d-did s-say that b… but…" Hold on… he's handsome…
"But what?" My eyes widen as his lips gets closer to mine. "Are you shy? No need to worry, I've got tons of experience."
Experience from kissing your wife that is. Just wait until she hears about this! To think that you can do this to your own sister… oh… A thought clicks in my brain. I just figured out why I feel this way.
"Experience in kissing?"
He nods. "Want me to-Mph!"
I slam my lips onto his as his eyes bulge out of their sockets. Hahaha! Look at his expression right now. He disconnects from my lips swiftly backing away looking pale as a ghost. Woah… is he going to faint? Maybe that was too bold of me to tease him like that.
"Why did you pull away, handsome?" A smirk crosses my lips as I approach him. Nah. He deserves a little scare. "I thought you said you know how to kiss." My lips smack in distaste. "You had me excited for a second there." That was nothing more than a peck. Granted it was longer than a peck but definitely not how a kiss should be. At least I think.
"Astrana, what are you-"
I grip his jaw forcing him to look at me as he turns away. "What do you think I want? I said that I loved you romantically, right?" Definitely not romantically.
"You-"
"Do you know how hard it is seeing you with Lily everyday?"
"I… you're my sister…"
"So?"
"It's taboo and illegal."
"The law can't stop love."
"I have a wife."
"Then divorce her."
"She's bearing my children."
"I can…" Please forgive me! "I can bear your children." I whisper as his jaw dangles in horror and disbelief. What did I just say?! I'm insane! How can I say that to my brother? Ew! Gross! Yucky!
"W… What…?" A gasp escapes his lips as he furrows his brows. "You…" Yeah. I can't believe it either. Do I have no shame?! Ahhhh!
He stares at me blinking blankly every so often as I gulp. Should I end the joke now? He looks as if his brain will explode or something.
"Astrana… did you know what you just… said?" My brother utters in complete shock as I resist the urge to laugh. That's a genuine shocked face if I ever saw one. Looks like he's really really surprised. Then again, how else would a being react when a sister says she likes her brother romantically.
"Yup!" I clasp his left hand. Well, my pride is out the window today. "I love you, Astral."
His brows furrow as his gaze shifts towards his hand, trying to wiggle it free. "I…"
"Yes? Is there something you want to say, brother?" I blink fluttering my eyelashes sporting a big smile. Hm, how should I proceed next?
"Are you ill? Perhaps a fever is messing with your head?" This idiot. Why is he responding this way? "Hang on," He takes out his phone from his jacket pocket. "I'll phone Nistro and make you an appointment."
"What for?" Appointment?
"What do you think? It's either that you're ill physically or mentally. More likely mentally but don't you worry, sis." Gold and silver eyes look up at his phone. "He's an amazing psychiatrist and physician. Whatever is wrong with you, he can make you better."
Oh?
My eyes narrow as I immediately knock his phone from his hands causing it to fly downwards shattering it on impact.
(Shatter)
Whoops…
"Now I have to get a new phone. Seriously, why did you-"
"You think I have a mental disorder because I confessed I liked you romantically?!" I grip his shirt collar tightly as my blood boils. He seriously thinks I'm mentally ill? "How on Astral World did you come up with that conclusion?"
"Since we are twins…" He trails off as I grip his collar tighter. "Can you… let go of my hand?"
"Why? You have never refused physical contact with me before so what makes this time different?"
"Astrana-"
"You know what you're doing is terrible, right?" I bite my lip. Here goes nothing. "Can't siblings like each other romantically without one of them having a mental illness?"
"It's-"
"I know it's taboo and illegal but still. Love is love. What's wrong with siblings liking each other?"
"Well," His eyes drift downwards. "It's not that siblings can't like each other but-"
"But what? It's taboo? Illegal? It can potentially harm the baby if they decide to reproduce? It can mess up the family tree?"
He nods. "Yes."
"So because of that you assumed I have a mental disorder?" How does that make sense? I mean… it's rare that siblings will have that kind of attraction to each other but to say I have a mental illness of all things?!
"There is a thing called Genetic Sexual Attraction. It is a phenomenon of intense attraction between biological family members that can occur after close relatives are reunited after a long period of separation."
So he thought…
"You thought since we separated at an early age…"
My brother nods once more. "It's nothing to be ashamed of really. Having a mental disorder that is. Even I have been diagnosed with a bunch of things so-"
"You have?" Why of course he has! Considering all the trauma he'd been though, I would be surprised if he didn't have any mental issues.
"Yup." He gently places his hands on my shoulders. "I wasn't judging you if that was what you were assuming. There's no shame in seeking help from others including therapy."
"Really?"
"Really."
"But," This was not the way I imagined this going but since we're here… "I'm curious. What were you diagnosed with?"
He blinks. "This has nothing to do with the conversation."
"Aw come on, Lucky! You said you were diagnosed yet you're not going to reveal what you were diagnosed with? How is that fair?"
"What fairness? Since when did fairness become a factor in this?"
"Come on!" My eyes light up. "Are you really diagnosed with ASPD like that Edward guy?"
He rolls his eyes pushing my forehead away. "Like you will ever know." A brow raises at my body. "Why are you in a towel?"
I cover my chest with a gulp. "What? Were you expecting me to be naked with you just a few feet away?"
"You did say you needed help with something so I assumed-"
"You pervert!"
"Really." A pair of arms cross his chest. "You're the one who kissed me and said that you will bear my-"
"Hey!" My face grows crimson as I slam a hand onto his mouth. "I get it, okay? No need to say it out loud!"
Geez, this day is not how I expected it to turn out.
Zach's POV:
"Are you sure?"
"That's what he said." Thankfully I was able to seep out some information from him. I let out a breather placing my hands on the back of my head. "He said the more he talks about it, the better it will be."
"It's not like we can force him to open up."
True. Even though he has improved over the years, getting him to reveal his secrets is a difficult task.
"Say," Purple eyes look in mine as I place my feet on the table. "How did you get him to reveal that? I thought the patient-doctor confidentiality law states-"
"I had to beg him to get that information." My knees are still sore from kneeling. But… "He said he was and still is suffering from post traumatic stress disorder."
"PTSD?"
I nod resting my head on the spinning chair. "It's a result of his trauma."
"Is there a way to cure it?"
I mean…
"I'm not sure but he did say his avoidance of that topic will hinder any results the therapy might have."
"Hm," She places a hand under her chin. "How about you talk to him. After all, he seems the most at ease with you."
What?
I blink at her for a few minutes. How on earth is he more at ease with me than his wife?"You're his wife."
"Yes but he tells you things he wouldn't tell me." What is she- "Remember that incident about her?"
My body freezes as I recall a certain memory. Oh… "In hindsight, I think he told me that and cried so I could get off his case."
"Whatever it was," She waves a hand plucking a strawberry from the bowl that's on the bed. "There are things he would tell you that he wouldn't tell me."
That may be true however…
"I have a feeling someone else would be more suited for this role."
"Really? Who?"
Based on his actions over the years, it has got to be him. However…
Derek's POV:
(Shatter)(Crash)
On the concrete lays broken glass, all separated into a million pieces as a gasp rings through my ears.
"I-I'm so sorry, My Lord." A maid automatically kneels before me as I blink. Why is she wearing a veil covering half of her face?"I wasn't l-looking where I was going. I promise, it w-won't happen again."
Actually, it wasn't her fault at all. I wasn't looking where I was going and got distracted. Speaking of which, I swerve my head towards the sky. Where is that crow? I sensed dark energy radiating from it. Why would a crow have such energy I would never know but I sensed it clear as day.
"It wasn't your fault." I respond after a minute as my eyes look towards the lady kneeling. "I wasn't paying attention."
She lowers her head even more as I let out a breath. What is it with servants being so scared to mess up? It's not like I'm the Prince or anything. I guess it's a social construct. "I'm serious. It wasn't your fault so stop kneeling."
"Thank you, My Lord." She raises her head as my eyes widen. Why does she look so… familiar?
"Have I… met you before?" My brows furrow as my eyes narrow. I feel as if I seen her somewhere before. She shakes her head bowing her head downwards. Hm, "Why are you wearing a veil?"
"My Lord," She curtesy. "I'm afraid my appearance won't be suited for your eyes."
Huh?
"What are you talking about?" A chuckle escapes my lips. "I would never judge a being based on their appearance, if that was your worry."
"N-No. Of course not. It's just I have an injury on my face…"
Ohhhh. So that's the reason why.
"What injury is it?"
Her eyes widen clearly not expecting me to ask that. "I-I'm sorry?"
"Your injury. What was it caused by?"
"M-My L-Lord, this isn't a thing you should worry yourself w-with-"
I materialize a tub of ointment and hands it to her. "Here. This is amazing for treating scars to deeper wounds. Just put it on every night until it disappears."
"I-I can't possibly-"
"I gave you it out of my generosity. Are you saying you would refuse my gift?"
The lady in front of me immediately kneels clutching the tub in her hands. "T-That was not my intention."
I'm sure I'd seen her before. But where?
Star's POV:
(Knock)(Knock)
"Coming!"
The door creaks open as a pink haired lady greets me sporting a smile. "Why Miss Star, you're here."
"Indeed I am." I hold up a wooden basket filled with some fruits. "Is Astrid home?"
"Ah yes." She escorts me inside and shuts the door. "Although I'm afraid the Miss is resting at the moment."
Her hand sets down a cup of tea. "No need to wake her." I respond bringing the cup to my lips. "Let her rest." A brief moment of silence flows through the room as a thought passes through my mind. "How is she by the way?"
"The Miss has been really well recently." The woman in front of me sits down across from me. "It must be because of your company."
My… company?
"Does no one else visit her?" Surely a gorgeous lady as her would have a bunch of friends.
She shakes her head letting out a sigh. "Sadly, there are beings out there who judge her for her disability."
"No way!"
"I know right?"
"Why are they so shallow?"
The being across from me gulps down her drink slamming the cup on the table. "I know. I'm not being biased because I serve her but the Miss is the kindest being I have ever served during this lifetime." Her green eyes glance at the crib with the baby who is sleeping peacefully. "She saved a baby from the streets! If that doesn't scream nice then I don't know what will."
Exactly! What is the matter with people these days? If this keeps up, I feel bad for the next generation.
A breath escapes my lips. "I'm assuming no one else visits?"
Her eyes widen as she shifts her gaze downwards for a few seconds then to mine. "You're the only one who visits these days."
"It must be awfully lonely for the two of you."
"Yes but she's gotten quite better since the baby arrived. She's more… talkative now."
That's good to hear. "Oh. Speaking of which, does the baby have a name yet?"
"Unfortunately no. The Miss doesn't want to name him."
"Why not?"
"She said she may get attached."
I blink at the crib for a minute. "Isn't that a good thing?"
"That's what I said as well but she said she was only taking care of him for the time being. Once his real parents show up, she'll give him back."
She… She's not serious… is she?
"Natalia, I mean this in the kindest way possible but your mistress is incredibly naive if she thinks his parents will come back after abandoning him on the side of a road." Abandoning a baby on the streets?! At least take him to a safe place like an orphanage or in the worst case scenario, leave him in front of a good family's house. But to hate your son so much and leave him alone in an alleyway? These people are evil!
She shakes her head tucking a strand of pink hair behind her ear. "I tried to convince her but she didn't want to hear it and refused to name him."
Honestly, after all this time I've known her, she can be as stubborn as a mule.
"So, we're just calling him the baby for now?"
"Unfortunately."
I glance towards the crib once more. Who would abandon such a little cutie like you?
Maria's POV:
"Lady Maria?" Big purple eyes look up at me with a head tilt.
"Yes?" I crouch down to her level. "Is there something you need, Young Princess?"
"Is daddy sad about something?"
I blink at her question. Why would she ask me that? "Why do you say that?" He seemed fine earlier when he was apologizing to Astrana.
The girl in the light pink dress pouts. "I don't know but he's different than usual."
"Different?"
Was it because he actually yelled at his sister? Or was it because he asserted his authority over her? Either one was highly out of character for him.
"Yeah. He's more quiet and won't play with me." Her arms cross in front of her chest furrowing her brows as I hold in a laugh. So cute! "I know he's busy but I want to go to the mall as well."
What? "You want to go to the mall as well?" She nods. "But then why didn't you say anything?" If he knew, she would definitely be able to tag along.
"Because daddy was apologizing to auntie and I didn't want to interrupt."
Oh wow…
"You were afraid that if you went, they wouldn't get the chance to make up?"
A tiny nod comes from the young toddler as my heart swells up. She is so sweet! Oh my gosh! "Melody, can you be my daughter instead?" It's incredible how much this two year old thinks of other beings. When I was two, I was sort of the opposite.
Her bright eyes blink at mine. "Huh?"
"You are just so adorable!" My fingers pat her blue and black locks as she scrunches her nose. Did she pass the terrible two phase? Who am I kidding? This girl having a terrible two phase? Really?
"Lady Maria,"
"Hey." I frown at her shaking my head. "I thought I said not to refer to my title."
"But if I don't refer to your title, what else can I refer you as?"
"Just call me by my name."
"But that's rude since I'm younger than you."
She's not wrong there. Oh yeah! There's an exception! "Yes. Since I'm older than you, calling me by my name is rude. However, if we go according to the rank distinction between us, you're the Young Princess while I am just a Lady."
"But… you're older than me…"
I nod letting a laugh escape. "Yes but a princess outranks a lady." The toddler in front of me furrows her brows in confusion. Hm…"For example, your father is the Prince, making him superior than me and everyone else except for Their Majesties."
"Even mommy?"
Well… I'm not really sure. Considering she's the Princess Consort… even though she's his wife, she's not technically apart of the Royal Family because blood lines and all. So does that mean he has more power than her? But then again… "I'm not sure but I would assume since he has the royal blood flowing through his veins, he has more power than someone who married into the Royal Family." Right? Blood is thicker than water. In this case, if he's the son who Queen Enna gave birth to, wouldn't that make him have authority over his wife?
Purple eyes widen. "Does that mean mommy doesn't have any power?"
"Oh no. I don't mean it like that, sweetheart. She has authority over the beings beneath her such as Lord Derek, Brandon, Zach, Lady Star, Duchess Estrella, and many more but she doesn't have power over the Prince, Princess, and Their Majesties."
"So mommy doesn't have any power over daddy?"
How should I put this… "Well…"
"Who says I don't have any power over him?" A voice rings through my ears as the girl in front of me tackles the woman walking towards me raising a brow.
"Hey, how are you feeling?"
Her lips curve upwards carrying the two year old in her arms. "A bit nauseous but I'm fine."
"Mommy, you don't have power over daddy?"
A hand pokes her nose as a giggle escapes her tiny lips. "If I don't have power over your father, who will?"
"But Maria said-"
"What she said is true but that is only in regards to political matters."
"Politics?"
My friend nods. "Yes. I married into the Royal Family but I don't have royal blood so that makes me a step down than your father."
"So I was right. Daddy is more powerful than you."
"Yes, honey. He is very powerful however," She winks pecking her lips. "I can make him do whatever I want."
"Really?" Her big eyes widen after a moment. "Then can you make daddy stay forever and ever?"
Stay forever? What? Is he going to leave again or something? Amethyst eyes furrow looking at me as I shrug. "Of course, my sunshine. Your father will stay with us forever."
"Then we can be a happy family!"
"Mhm!" Her arms pull her daughter closer, embracing her body as she sighs leaning closer to me. "Maria, did you say something to her?"
"What? You think I said something to her?" A scoff escapes my lips. "Puh-lease, what could I possibly say?"
"Then why did she ask me that question?"
"Beats me. Perhaps Astral said something to her?"
If that's the case… does that mean he will leave again? Oh no. Not on my watch! Last time was difficult as it is for everyone.
"I'll talk to him about-"
"What?!" A being shouts as my attention directs onto a guy covering his mouth in horror.
What's wrong with him? He looks as if he received horrible news or something.
"T-Then is the Prince and Princess okay?"
Prince? Princess? Okay? What are they talking about?
A girl sniffles wiping her eyes. "I-I don't know. All I heard was that there was a shooting at the mall-"
Shooting?!
"Shhhh!" A hand clamps over her mouth. "We must not let this get to the ears of the Princess Consort."
Did she just say… shooting? My body goes rigid as I gulp. Nah… I must've heard wrong, right? Besides, what sane being would shoot up a mall? Not to mention, if the mall was shot up, they would survive since royal members are significantly stronger than ordinary beings.
A hand grips mine tightly as I swerve my head towards my friend. Her complexion pales as she slowly places her daughter down. "Lily," Darn it. She must've heard them! "I'm pretty sure they're fine. Don't worry too-"
"My chest hurts."
Huh?
"Your chest-"
"Hold me. I think I'm going to faint soon." A whisper echos in my ears as I immediately secure my hands on her waist. "Call Nistro."
"Woah," Her complexion pales as I lower her to the ground. "Lily. Hey," My fingers gently tap her cheeks. "What else hurts?"
"My head."
"Mommy!" A girl whimpers tugging her arm.
"Don't you worry Princess. She'll be fine." I gulp as her eyes shut letting out a groan. Or at least I hope so.
"Someone! Bring in the doctor quickly!" A hand sudden falls limply towards the ground as my body freezes. Oh no… "The Princess Consort has collapsed!"