The princess games *Completed*

Another dinner

*Charlie*

As we step out of our building and make our way to the dining room, the air is thick with anticipation… These buffets are absolutely amazing and not what you usually imagine from an all inclusive hotel.

The golden chandeliers illuminate the hallway to the dining area, and I can’t help but feel a little giddy at the thought of another evening with my friends and maybe seeing Malik. But my excitement is tinged with a hint of envy… not a bad envy, more a friendly one. Nia got an invite to the private dinner with a mysterious man, and she’s been practically glowing all day.

I am super exited and happy for her and I can’t wait to hear all about it.

“Do you think she’ll actually come back after the dinner?” I ask, my curiosity piqued.

“You mean if she falls in love with him and forgets about us?” Tessa laughs.

Arabella smirks, “Well, if he’s anything like the prince, I don’t blame her. But let’s focus on our dinner. We’ll get the scoop from her later.”

“I mean if she would join him for the party,” I say with a small headshake. “But yeah, let’s enjoy dinner.”

As we enter the lavish dining room, I spot Malik at the far end, chatting with a couple of guests. My heart does a little flip. He looks effortlessly charming, as always, dressed in his spotless servants uniform that seems to accentuates his tall frame. The moment he sees us, his face lights up, and he makes his way over with that magnetic smile that makes my cheeks flush.

“Good evening, ladies,” he greets us, his voice smooth and inviting. He takes my hand, raising it to his lips and kissing it softly. A rush of warmth floods through me, and I can’t help but blush. “Charlie, you look stunning tonight… as always. All of you Ladies look great.”

“Thanks, Malik,” I manage to reply, trying to keep my composure.

“Where’s Nia?” he asks as he leads us to a beautifully set table adorned with flickering candles and elegant place settings. “I see She is not with you.”

“She will be at the mixed dinner,” I say, my voice laced with a hint of pride for my friend. “She’s got a date!”

Malik raises an eyebrow, a playful grin spreading across his face. “Ah, I’ll be working that dinner as well. I'll make sure she’s okay. I’ve got my eye on her.”

“Thanks… I’m sure she’ll be just fine with you around,” I say, feeling a rush of gratitude, it is really sweet of him to care.

We settle into our seats, and the atmosphere buzzes with laughter and conversation around us. Malik takes our drink orders before asking. “So, what did you girls get up to today?”

Tessa can barely contain herself as she leans forward, her eyes sparkling. “We went to the spa… It was absolutely divine. Massages, facials, the whole package!”

Arabella chimes in, “And it was all courtesy of a generous gift. You won’t believe who sent it.”

“Oh? Do tell!” Malik leans in, clearly intrigued.

“The prince himself, Zahir… can you believe it?” She says.

I can’t help but notice the playful glint in his eye, and I wonder if he already knows. “At least that is what She believes,” I say, trying to keep my tone light.

Malik raises an eyebrow, feigning surprise. “Oh, it was?” He winks at me, and I feel a flutter of realization wash over me. It wasn’t the prince who sent the gift; it was Malik. My heart races, and a smile spreads across my face. “Let me get your drinks.”

He turns to get our drinks, and I can’t help but steal a glance at Arabella and Tessa. “Did you see that? I think it Was him, not the prince” I whisper, my excitement bubbling over.

“Oh you think so?” Tessa beams, clearly loving the idea. “It’s so sweet of him.”

Arabella looks confused. “How would he afford that? He is a servant. No, I think it was the prince.”

Malik returns, placing our drinks on the table with a flourish. “So, what’s next on the agenda for your trip? Any more surprises?” he asks, his gaze lingering on me.

“We’re just soaking up every moment,” I reply, feeling a warmth spread through me. “But I’m sure Nia’s dinner will be the highlight of the night.”

“Speaking of highlights,” Malik leans in, lowering his voice conspiratorially, “I’ve heard some whispers about a gala happening saturday night… Apperantly the crown prince will be there, It’s going to be quite the event.”

“Seriously?” Tessa gasps. “We have to go.”

Arabella nods eagerly, her eyes glinting with mischief. “Count me in. We can’t miss that.”

Malik chuckles, his eyes sparkling. “I’ll make sure to arrange everything. You girls are going to love it.”

As we dive into our meal, the conversation flows effortlessly. Malik comes by several times to check on us, and I find myself hanging onto every word he says. I’m grateful for the laughter, the delicious food, and the company of my friends.

Time slips away, and as we get to the dessert, I can’t help but feel a sense of euphoria enveloping me. I am starting to look forward to the rest of the evening.