Prior Engagement

"What do you mean you're not joining us for lunch, Your Grace?" Rylen asked with clear confusion on his face as he and Caius walked out of his private study.

"Exactly that," Caius replied with no further explanation.

"That doesn't say anything. What excuse would I give to the Queen, Her Majesty?" he asked in horror.

"Tell her I have a prior engagement," he replied, annoyed that he had to explain himself.

"What prior engagement?" Rylen asked in disbelief. He was in charge of Caius's schedule for the day; he would know if the crown prince had a prior engagement.

"I don't see how that is any of your business," Caius replied.

"What? You're really not going to join us for lunch for this obscure engagement of yours?"

"I don't understand why you would insist on this," Caius said, shooting Rylen a glare as he walked next to him.