Princess Ava

Chapter 5

Kaelen, slouched in a chair in the corner of the room, boots still on, arms crossed — fast asleep. He looked less like a king and more like a worn soldier.

She barely made it two steps before his eyes snapped open.

In a heartbeat, he was on his feet, intercepting her as she reached for the balcony.

“You’re not a prisoner, Ava,” he said calmly, gripping her arms just firmly enough to stop her, “but you can’t run. This is your life now — whether you like it or not.”

She glared at him, breathing hard.

“You’ll begin lessons soon,” he continued. “You need to learn our customs, our laws. You will rule beside me. And you will follow the rules of this kingdom.”

Ava stared at him, her voice caught between fury and disbelief.

Was this fate? A new prison with silk curtains? Or… something she had the power to reshape?

Ava didn’t answer him at first. Her eyes met Kaelen’s, unreadable. Then, slowly, she nodded once.

“I understand,” she said quietly.

Kaelen searched her face, trying to read her true thoughts, but there was nothing—just silence and calm obedience. He let out a breath, almost relieved, and for the first time since she’d seen him again… he smiled.

It was small, restrained, but unmistakably real.

Ava blinked. That smile—warm, human—threw her off more than the crown, the soldiers, or even the throne room had. For a moment, something wavered inside her.

But she shoved it down.

Play the role. Learn their ways. Wait. Then strike.

Later that day, three royal maids entered her chamber—nervous at first, but respectful. “Your Grace,” one whispered, bowing. “We are honored to serve the future queen.”

Kaelen had assigned them personally.

They bathed her, dressed her in fabrics that shimmered like moonlight, and guided her through the palace halls. Ava walked in silence, eyes calm, lips neutral.

But inside, she was reeling.