The princess games

Breakfast

*Charlie*

As we step into the lavish restaurant, the aroma of delicious food, fresh pastries and brewed coffee envelops us, making my stomach rumble with anticipation. Sunlight pours in through the floor-to-ceiling windows, casting a warm glow over the elegantly set tables adorned with delicate floral arrangements. Tessa, Nia, and Arabella chatter excitedly, but my heart races for a different reason. I scan the room, hoping to catch a glimpse of Malik.

“So were do we want to sit?" Tessa asks, her eyes widening as she takes in the grandeur. Nia nods thoughtfully, her gaze darting from the opulent decor to the luxurious buffet spread that looks like a feast fit for royalty.

Just as we’re about to go grab a table, a familiar figure catches my eye. Malik has been standing near the entrance, like he was waiting for us. He is adjusting his crisp white shirt, his dark curls framing his handsome face. He spots me and flashes that charming smile that sends butterflies fluttering in my stomach.

“Charlie,” He strides over to us, radiating an effortless confidence. My heart thuds as he approaches, and I can’t help but notice the way he carries himself… like someone who knows he belongs, even in this sea of opulence. Not like you expect a servant really.

“Good morning,” he says warmly, his gaze lingering on me for a moment longer than necessary. “I hope you’re hungry ladies.”

“Starving,” I reply, trying to play it cool, but the excitement bubbles beneath the surface.

“Follow me,” he says, gesturing for us to walk ahead. I can’t help but steal glances at him as we make our way through the restaurant. He leads us to a table decorated with vibrant flowers… roses, lilies, and orchids… creating a romantic atmosphere that feels almost surreal. There is a small sign saying ‘reserved’.

“Did you do this?” I ask, my voice barely above a whisper as I take in the stunning arrangement.

He nods, a sheepish smile spreading across his face. “You deserve something special.”

Before I can respond, he takes my hand and leans down, kissing the back of it, sending a rush of warmth coursing through me. My cheeks flush as my friends watch, wide-eyed with awe. I can’t help but grin like a lovesick fool.

“Enjoy your breakfast,” he says, stepping back and giving me one last lingering look before he walks away.

As he disappears into the bustling crowd, Tessa practically squeals, “Okay, that was beyond adorable! Are you freaking out right now?”

I nod, my heart still racing. “He’s just so sweet. I can’t believe he did all this.”

Nia leans across the table, her eyes sparkling. “You two are like a modern-day fairy tale. I mean, how often does a girl get a romantic breakfast set up by a handsome guy?”

Arabella rolls her eyes but can’t hide her smile. “As long as you’re not falling head over heels for just the fantasy, I think it’s lovely. Don’t forget to keep your head on straight, though… after all he is a servant.”

“I’m not,” I assure them, though a part of me knows it’s getting harder to separate reality from this enchanting whirlwind. “I just want to enjoy it while it lasts.”

We make our way to the buffet, and I can barely contain my excitement as I load my plate with an array of tropical fruits, pastries, and fluffy pancakes. The spread is nothing short of luxurious, and I feel like I’m in a dream.

Just as we’re filling our plates, a commotion erupts nearby. I glance over to see two small groups of women glaring at each other… one group clad in flowy dresses and sun hats, clearly embodying the ‘Trad Wife’ aesthetic, while the other group wears daring swimsuits, clumsy sharongs and high heels, exuding confidence and sass.

“What’s going on?” Tessa whispers, her eyes wide.

“It looks like a showdown,” I reply, trying to suppress a giggle. The tension is palpable as the Trad Wives and the sexy girls trade barbs, their differences clashing in a way that feels almost theatrical.

Before things escalate further, Tessa and I exchange determined glances, and we rush over to intervene. “Hey, ladies, let’s not do this here,” Tessa says, her voice calm but firm as she steps between the two groups.

“We’re just having a bit of fun!” one of the sexy girls retorts, tossing her hair over her shoulder.

“And we’re just trying to enjoy our breakfast without any drama,” I add, trying to diffuse the situation. “How about we all just take a breath and appreciate the beautiful morning?”

After a tense moment, the Trad Wives seem to relent, exchanging glances before one of them huffs, “Fine. Let’s just eat.”

As the tension subsides and everyone returns to their meals, Tessa and I high-five each other, relieved we managed to avert disaster.

Back at our table, Arabella raises her eyebrows, clearly amused. “You two are brave. But did you hear the rumors? They’re saying the prince will be at the pool today.”

My heart skips a beat asTessa says. “Prince Zahir? Here at the pool? Seriously?”

She nods, a gleam in her eye. “Yes, Apparently, he’s looking for someone to join him for a swim. Can you imagine?”

Tessa’s eyes light up, and I can already see her plotting how to catch the prince’s attention. “What do you think, Charlie? Should we make a plan?”

I can’t help but laugh, caught in the whirlwind of excitement. “I think we should enjoy our breakfast first and see where the day takes us. Who knows what might happen?”

As we dive into our delicious spread, I can’t shake the thought of Malik and the prince from my mind. One represents a romantic promise, while the other embodies a world of possibilities.