Enchanted Rivalry

17. Tangled threads

Aria 

As I stepped into the palace gardens, the morning air greeted me with a gentle breeze, carrying the scent of blooming flowers and fresh dew. The soft sunlight filtered through the leaves, casting dappled patterns on the ground below. Prince Andrews was already waiting for me, seated at a wrought-iron table adorned with a delicate lace tablecloth.

He looked up as I approached, a warm smile gracing his features. "Good morning, Princess Aria," he greeted, his voice carrying a hint of anticipation.

"Good morning, Prince Andrews," I replied, returning his smile as I took my seat opposite him. The table was set with an array of breakfast delicacies, from freshly baked pastries to exotic fruits.

As we began to eat, Prince Andrews engaged me in light conversation, asking about my well-being and sharing anecdotes from his own kingdom. His presence was comforting, offering a sense of stability amidst the turmoil that had consumed my thoughts.

I found myself gradually relaxing in his company, the tension from the previous night's argument with Kael slowly dissipating. Prince Andrews' easygoing demeanor and genuine interest in my thoughts and feelings provided a welcome respite from the chaos of politics and conflict.

The serene atmosphere of the palace gardens was shattered by the sudden arrival of Kael and the soldiers of Shadowlands. My heart skipped a beat as I watched them approach, a knot of apprehension forming in the pit of my stomach.

Prince Andrews noticed my unease and furrowed his brow in concern. "Aria, what's wrong?" he asked, his voice tinged with worry.

I swallowed hard, my gaze fixed on Kael as he drew nearer. "It's uhh.. Shadowlands," I replied, my voice barely above a whisper. "They're here."

Prince Andrews tensed visibly, his eyes narrowing as he regarded Kael with suspicion. "What do they want, after last night?" he asked, his tone edged with concern.

As Kael approached, his presence casting a shadow over the tranquil setting of the palace gardens, I braced myself for the inevitable confrontation. His expression was inscrutable, his eyes flickering with an intensity that made my skin prickle with unease.

"Hello-" Kael began, but I cut him off before he could finish his greeting. "Don't talk to me," I interjected sharply, my tone laced with thinly veiled hostility.

Kael's gaze hardened as he turned to me, his fake grin in response to my rebuke. "I wasn't talking to you," he retorted.

I scowled at his dismissive tone, resisting the urge to lash out in frustration. Instead, I turned my attention to Prince Andrews, who stood beside me, his expression a mixture of concern and confusion.

Kael extended his arm in a disingenuous gesture of civility, offering Prince Andrews a handshake as he greeted him with a curt "Good morning."

I couldn't help but mutter under my breath, my frustration boiling over. "It was until you got here."

"Again, wasn't talking to you" He added, side glancing at me.

With a tense nod in response to Kael's jab, I rose from my seat, my movements stiff with pent-up frustration. "Prince Andrews," I addressed him, forcing a polite smile despite the turmoil churning within me. "I think I'm going to go get ready. I'll join you later."

Kael's retort cut through the tension, his words heavy with thinly veiled sarcasm. "Oh, no need to ruin your stupi—I mean, your romantic date because of me. I'll just wait."

I pivoted on my heel to face him, my eyes narrowing as I met his gaze head-on. "Wait for what?" I demanded, my tone sharp with irritation.

His gaze remained steady, unyielding. "I need to talk to Prince Andrews," he replied evenly, offering me a false smile that did little to mask the underlying tension between us.