Ruining The King

Chapter 3.1: flicker of Hope

Amelia clutched Sarah's hand tightly as they climbed the stairs, the sting of the Crown Prince's words lingering in the air. Tears welled up in her eyes, threatening to spill over. Sarah squeezed her hand reassuringly.

"Don't mind him, Lady Whitestone," Sarah murmured. "He's been through a lot lately, and his temper is short."

Amelia wiped away a stray tear. "But why did he treat me like that? I was just trying to be kind."

Sarah sighed. "There's more to this story than you know, child. Prince Mason is not like most royalty. He's… complicated."

The rest of the day passed in a blur. I helped Sarah with chores, the tension from the earlier encounter hanging heavy between us. I stole glances out the window, yearning for a glimpse of the gardens she had seen earlier. The promise of fresh air and a quiet moment to collect her thoughts was a beacon in the storm of her emotions.

Finally, as dusk settled, Sarah announced, "Why don't you go explore the gardens, Lady Whitestone? It might help clear your head."

Amelia's heart lifted. "Thank you, Sarah. That sounds lovely."

Stepping outside, she breathed in the cool evening air. The scent of blooming flowers filled her senses, a stark contrast to the sterile air inside the house. As she wandered deeper into the garden, the sound of her footsteps crunching on the gravel path was the only sound that broke the peaceful silence.

Suddenly, a deep voice startled her. "This garden is even more beautiful at night."

Amelia whirled around to find Prince Mason standing behind her, his hands clasped behind his back. He looked different in the moonlight, a vulnerability shimmering in his green eyes that had not been there earlier.

Amelia hesitated, unsure how to respond. The memories of his earlier outburst were still fresh.

Sensing her hesitation, Mason spoke again, his voice softer this time. "I apologize for the way I acted this morning. It was…uncalled for."

Amelia was surprised by the apology. "I… I do not understand. Why did you treat me that way?"

Mason let out a frustrated groan. "It's a long story, and frankly, not one I'm comfortable sharing right now. But trust me, it's not about you."

He paused, his gaze flickering across her face. "You made breakfast for a stranger; someone you didn't even know. That takes courage. And for that, I am grateful."

Amelia felt a blush creep up her cheeks. His words, though simple, held a surprising amount of sincerity.

"Can we… start over?" Mason asked, extending his hand towards her.

Amelia stared at his hand, then back at his eyes. Despite her initial fear, there was something about him, a vulnerability hidden beneath the surface, that made her want to believe him.

Taking a deep breath, Amelia placed her hand in his. His touch was warm and firm, sending a jolt of electricity through her.

"Mason," she said, her voice barely a whisper.

A flicker of a smile played on his lips. "Amelia. Perhaps, over time, I can tell you why I reacted the way I did. But for now, let's just enjoy this peaceful moment."

And as they stood there together, surrounded by the beauty of the moonlit garden, a fragile hope flickered within Amelia. Perhaps, just perhaps, there was more to this strange new life than fear and uncertainty.