CHAPTER 04_ The Prep
991 Words
I settled into my new favorite armchair, losing myself in the pages of a worn leather book.
Just as I began to completely get absorbed in the story, a soft knock on my door broke the reverie. I signaled for the caller to come in.
The door swung open, revealing a slender young woman, in her late twenties precisely. Her curly hair was neatly tied in a bun and a crisp apron was wrapped around her waist, accentuating her petite frame. Her eyes sparkled brightly as she curtsied.
"Good day Ma’am." She greeted me. I’m Kylie and Prince Ryker sent me to you.
“Oh, Good morning” I replied, settling my book. “Please call me Ava, just Ava for now."
Kylie’s nod was almost impossible, but her understanding was clear. With a quiet indication, she beckoned to someone outside to come in.
I rose from my chair, curiosity getting the best of me.
A procession of palace staff flowed in, carrying an array of exquisite gowns, elegant shoes and delicate accessories.
My eyes widened waiting for answers, “what’s all this?” I asked, bewildered.
Kylie smiled, giving me a knowing look as she began to unpack the treasures.
“By the king's order, we’ve arranged a selection of new dresses and shoes to be delivered to your wardrobe, Ms. Black”, Kylie announced.
She inspected the arrangement of the dresses in the wardrobe, holding one spectacularly.
“This is specially crafted by the finest tailors in the kingdom” she explained, revealing a silk gown.
“The king wishes to ensure that you have everything you need while you’re here…and if you need anything in particular? Please do not hesitate to bring it to my notice."
I got to my feet, my hands trailing over the intricate beading of the dress. “This is breathtakingly gorgeous, I’ve never owned anything this pretty in my entire life”, I admired.
As the staff finished arranging the wardrobe, Kylie handed me a velvet-covered box.
“A gift from His Majesty, he requests that you wear the enclosed gown to tonight’s dinner”
"Tonight’s dinner?" My heart skipped.
“Yes, Miss Black, his majesty wishes to introduce you to the royal court.”
“Royal court?"" Isn’t that too sudden?” I asked, surprised.
Kylie grew silent.
“Talk to me Kylie, why so soon? C’mon sit”
Kylie hesitated before speaking in a hushed tone.
“I’m not allowed to interact so informally with you, Ms Black”
What. “Forget protocol, Kylie, if I’m your future queen, shouldn’t you take orders from me?” I reminded her.
She nodded in approval and I gestured for her to sit.
"Perhaps, a stroll through Willowdale palace would be better, Ms Black" "You should familiarize yourself with the grounds before dinner", Kylie suggested.
That wasn’t a bad idea. I put down the box, following Kylie intently. We left Everton Manor, walking through the palace grounds.
“Since the Queen’s demise, the palace has been somewhat different. Kylie said quietly.
"That explains why he’s so eager to secure his son's future within six months. They seem very uncanny about their future." Kylie explained.
"And how long have you been working here?" I asked, curiosity getting the better part of me.
“Shortly before her demise, seven years ago”
Kylie responded.
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I gazed at my reflection in the mirror as Kylie's skilled hands styled my hair into an elegant up do. She really is talented.
When I opened the velvet box, I was strucked by the gorgeous blue gown inside. It fitted me so perfectly, accentuating my curves as well. The fabric felt amazing on my skin, giving it a beautiful shine.
The neckline also had beautiful silver beading, my accessories were merely a top-up. The long sleeves had openings at the wrists too, everything was so perfect.
The velvet-covered box's contents was a stunning sapphire gown that hugged my curves perfectly.
Wearing this stunning gown, made me look like a queen. I couldn’t resist the urge of twirling constantly to catch the look behind me. It was indeed a masterpiece.
All of my anxiety disappeared within a twinkling of an eye.
Kylie had carefully styled my hair to showcase the necklace and highlighted my shoulders. She finished the look by gently sweeping two strands loose, allowing them to fall gracefully on my face.
"Kylie, what can I expect tonight?" I asked, my voice barely above a whisper, searching for reassurance.
Kylie's eyes darted around the room, ensuring we were alone.
"The royal court will be watching your every move, Miss Black." Just be yourself, I’m convinced you'll naturally charm them." She advised.
I nodded, taking a deep breath to calm myself. Kylie’s words offered some sort of comfort, but my mind still raced with doubt.
"And what about the princes' personalities?" "What are they like?" I inquired.
Kylie's voice drops to a whisper. "The princes are incredibly distinct individuals, each of them soaked in their own uniqueness. No matter how I try to explain, I think you’ll never get to understand. You’ll only truly comprehend their personalities when you interact with them personally.”
I sensed sweat running down my spine.
“Just be cautious, and I hope you choose rightly in the end,” she assured.
My mind wandered away in quietness.
"Remember, Miss Black," Kylie's voice brought me back to reality, "the princes are not just individuals, they're representatives of the royal family. Their actions, their words, everything is scrutinized."
I took a deep breath, bracing myself for the evening ahead. "I'll be careful, Kylie. Thank you for your guidance."
As Kylie finished my makeup, I stood up, smoothing out my gown. The woman staring back at me in the mirror was almost unrecognizable. I looked surreal and confident.
But beneath this surface, my heart trembled with anticipation and uncertainty.
- Writer
