The princess games

Is he right?

*Malik*

I’m in the royal suite at the resort, surrounded by the lavish decor that usually makes me feel like I’m in a gilded cage. I should be reviewing documents or preparing for my next official duty, but my mind is elsewhere… on Charlie. The memory of our date is still fresh, her laughter echoing in my mind like a sweet melody… and that kiss... I can’t shake the feeling that she’s unlike anyone I’ve ever met, and the connection we forged is one I want to explore further.

Just as I’m lost in thought, the door swings open, and in walks Zahir, his usual exuberant energy lighting up the room. “Malik!” he exclaims, practically bouncing on his feet. “You won’t believe who I just had a nice little chat with.”

I raise an eyebrow, my curiosity piqued, wondering if he migh have met someone. “Who?”

“Charlie! She’s absolutely delightful,” he says, plopping down on the couch as if he’s just won a prize. “I just had a little chat with her by the pool.”

“Why?” I can’t help but ask, feeling a sudden surge of jealousy… my brother is not interested in her, is he?

He grins, “I just wanted to meet the woman that my brother is falling for, after all she could become family.”

A mixture of pride and protectiveness flares within me, but I keep my expression neutral. “What did you two discuss?”

Zahir leans forward, his eyes sparkling with enthusiasm. “Just the usual… her stay here, her thoughts on the resort, and some light banter. But Malik, she’s different from the usual crowd. She’s not chasing after titles or wealth, I could feel that; she’s genuine I am sure of it.”

I can't help but feel a rush of gratitude that Zahir sees what I see in her. “What else did you think?” I ask, my heart pounding as I lean in closer.

Zahir shrugs, a grin still plastered on his face. “Honestly? While she might not fit the mold of what people imagine a queen to be, I like her. She seems smart, compassionate, and down-to-earth. So, all in all, I approve.” His tone is light, but there’s a seriousness in his eyes that makes me take notice.

A wave of relief washes over me, mingling with my lingering anxiety. “You really think she could fit into this world?” I ask, my voice barely above a whisper.

“Why not?” Zahir counters, his expression earnest. “Just because she's not a typical beauty doesn’t mean she can't bring something valuable to the role. She has a heart, Malik. And she has a way of making people feel seen.” He pauses, studying me. “I can tell you care about her.”

“Of course I do,” I reply, the weight of his gaze making my heart race. “But she doesn’t know who I really am. I don’t want her to be interested in me because of my title… but I also do not want to lie to her.”

“Then you need to tell her,” Zahir insists, leaning forward. “You need to be honest about who you are. If you care for her as much as I think you do, it’s the only way to move forward.”

I sigh, running a hand through my hair. “It’s complicated. I like the way we are right now… just two people getting to know each other without the weight of crowns and expectations. But if I tell her, it changes everything.”

Zahir leans back, crossing his arms. “Maybe it changes everything for the better. You might be surprised by her reaction. If she’s as genuine as you say, she’ll appreciate your honesty. Besides, you can’t keep hiding the real you forever.”

The thought sends a thrill through me, mingled with fear. “What if she doesn’t want anything to do with a prince? What if she sees it as a burden?”

Zahir shakes his head, his expression serious. “You’re overthinking it. If she’s the kind of person you believe her to be, she won’t care about the title. She’ll care about you.”

“Easier said than done,” I mutter, my mind racing with possibilities and doubts… to be honest I do not want to lose her.

“Just think about it,” Zahir says, a knowing smile tugging at his lips. “You’ve had your fun pretending to be a servant. Now it’s time to step up and be the man you are… crown prince or not.”

His words resonate with me, igniting a spark of determination. “You’re right. I can’t keep pretending forever. I need to tell her… soon.”

Zahir claps me on the shoulder, a grin reappearing. “That’s the spirit… And I get that it is scary… but the longer you wait the harder it gets.”