ARIA
I needed a break. After spending so much time in my office, the invitation to an event was a welcomed distraction. My betas, Claude and Callister, accompanied me, and I felt a small sense of relief at leaving the confines of the palace. At the occasion, we were given a VIP section, a perk of my status as king. The finest wine flowed freely, and although I drank quite a bit, I remained sober, my mind too restless to succumb to the alcohol.
I tried not to think about Aria or the turmoil between us. Instead, my thoughts wandered to my family, the duty I carried as king, and the immense weight of responsibility. I turned to my betas, seeking reassurance. "Am I doing a good job as king?”
Claude nodded earnestly. "You're doing a lot, Zavier. Don't be so hard on yourself.”
I laughed softly, but the sound was hollow. "That's a lie, Claude. I'm not doing a good job. I'm failing. Everything is falling apart.”