Chapter 12

ALEX

I could just as easily say that I'm having the best time of my life with me. Mia's presence in my life completes me. I moved the strand of hair that had been covering her eyes while she slept. Even in her sleep, she was stunning. Her eyes slowly opened and welcomed mine. She was like a child who needed to be handled with care, and that is exactly what she was to me.

"Good morning, My Angel," I said softly as my fingers caressed her cheek.

Her smile seemed to be the only thing that could keep the flame in my heart alive. She stroked my cheek as well as raised her hand to my face.

"Was this your intention all along?" she inquired.

I leaned in close enough to feel her breath.

"Well, I believe this is what fate had in store for us," I said, smiling.

As she looked deeper into my eyes, I noticed a shift in her demeanor.

"I have the next King in bed with me," she said, smiling slightly as she fondled my hair.

Her words made my heart skip a beat, and disappointment crept in. She had previously stated that it was impossible for us to be together, which I did not agree with.

"Do you believe it is possible for us to be together?" she inquired

"Are you in love with me, Mia?" I inquired.

"I am...I am in love with you Alex," she patiently stated as she looked into my eyes.

"I want you to be my Queen," I said as I leaned in closer, my hand gently caressing her face.

Her expression was one of astonishment as if I'd said the most impossible thing ever. Her expressions conveyed uncertainty and concern, and each one made me fear I would lose her.

"I love only you, Mia, and all I want is you. And I promise to keep you safe and always by my side." I said with a smile.

Her smile returned, confident that I had solved the most difficult puzzle she had ever faced. I hugged her and felt a sense of fulfillment that I had never felt before. I looked into those green eyes that were always calling my name. I adore you. She stroked my face, slowly resting her brow on mine.

"I trust you and love you. All of your words have a special place in my heart, and I accept your offer, to be your queen." She whispered.

Her words bolstered me, and I kissed those enticing lips that had always left me vulnerable. A soft sigh escaped her lips as I felt fueled within me. I wanted her completely, and I never seemed to have enough of her. I had her entangled beneath me as I claimed every part of her body, and the passion we had shared returned.

I had Mia return home and be cared for alongside her mother. I couldn't stop smiling as I remembered every moment I had with her.

Clint smiled as he said, "Someone appears to be very bright."

"Isn't the afternoon sun lovely?" I said, standing on the balcony of the hallway leading to the main palace.

"Isn't this all about Mia?" He laughed.

A brighter smile appeared on my face. "She's...just perfect," I exhaled as I wrapped my arms around my chest.

"I've never seen you so happy," he said, laughing.

"I'm going to make her my Queen," I declared hastily.

"About that...His Majesty wants to see you," he said, his face straight.

My smile faded quickly, and I hoped that our meeting wasn't about what he told me after the war.

"You called Father," I said as I walked into the hall.

"Yes...Son," he said, smiling.

At the same time, I noticed someone else had joined us in the hall, and I was taken aback.

"It's a pleasure to see you...again, Prince Alexander." She spoke and bowed.

Arenila. Is she really here? Why?

My mind couldn't fit everything in front of me. Arenila had been a childhood friend of mine. We had a good time, and I really liked her at one point, and I knew she did too, but she never admitted it until she left.

"Pleasure is all mine," I said as I took her hand in mine and kissed her knuckles.

"Father, if it's okay with you, may I speak with you alone?" I spoke calmly, never taking my gaze away from Arenila.

"Alright, son," he said.

Father motioned to Arenila, who walked behind me until she was out of the hall.

"What brings her here now? I never agreed with what we talked about earlier" I spat, trying desperately to contain my rage.

"Alex, the Kingdom requires expansion, and neither I nor you are getting any younger. And since you still don't have a bride after all this time, I decided to do it for you," he said calmly

"Father, I do. I told you who I want to marry "As previously stated

"You're not marrying a peasant," he said emphatically.

"She's not a peasant!" My Father's eyes were filled with shock as I yelled.

I made an attempt. I tried my hardest.

I exhaled a sigh. "I can not marry someone I do not love," I explained.

"When it comes to the palace's affairs, there is no love. Love weakens you " He stated.

I took a moment to reflect. "If I'm still not allowed to make decisions on my own as a Prince, then I don't think I want to be a part of this game," I said.

"What exactly are you implying?" Father inquired, his face befuddled.

"I'm going into exile. I no longer wish to be a prince " I said as I walked away.

"Alexander!! Alexander!" He called, but I refused to answer.

I noticed Arenila's confusion and concern, knowing full well that my Father and I had a heated conversation. She attempted to communicate with me, but I was far too quick to give her that chance. I'm aware that my decision will cause uproar in the Palace, but I don't care. All I could think about was getting out of this dreadful place.

Clint calmly stated, "I don't believe this is the best way to handle this situation, Your Highness." As we had finally reached my quarters

Why is He always so composed?

"How would you like me to proceed in that case?" I inquired, tiredly.

"Why don't you marry Princess Arenila and have Mia as your concubine?" he suggested.

"Never. I'd prefer it the other way around "I stated. "Don't bother coming with me. Keep an eye on Father and stay with him. I'll be gone for some time " I included

I left before he had a chance to say anything. I no longer needed to change into my disguise clothing because I had no reason to conceal my identity.

Arriving at the stable, I got a horse and rode out of the palace, finally able to breathe normally.

I rummaged through my thoughts in an attempt to regain my sanity. My anger and frustration had gotten the best of me, and I'd waited far too long to be denied my one and only desire.