The princess games

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*Charlie*

As Prince Zahir stands to leave, I feel a small twinge of disappointment, I liked talking to him honestly. His presence lingers like the scent of his cologne, and I can't help but smile as he walks away, tossing a playful wink over his shoulder. Just as he disappears into the crowd, my friends materialize, their excitement palpable.

“Charlie! You won’t believe what just happened!” Tessa squeals, practically bouncing on her toes. “You were talking to him! What did he say? What was he like?”

Nia leans in, her eyes wide with curiosity. “Did he ask questions about you or did he just tell about himself? What did you talk about? Was he charming?”

Arabella, her expression a mix of envy and admiration, crosses her arms. “I can’t believe you got to sit with him. What was it like? Was he as handsome up all close as he is from a distance?”

I can’t help but laugh at their eagerness. “He was nice,” I say, trying to downplay the encounter. “We talked a bit about books and what makes a hero. He mentioned he prefers genuine connections over titles. It was really refreshing.”

“Nice?” Arabella echoes, her voice rising incredulously. “Just nice? You’re talking about a prince here, Charlie! And he was clearly flirting with you. You cannot tell me that was just nice!”

Tessa leans closer, her voice dropping to a conspiratorial whisper. “I can’t believe you kept your cool. I would have been a total mess. Did he touch your arm? Did you feel butterflies?”

I roll my eyes, a smile tugging at my lips. “Okay, maybe there were a few butterflies, but the ‘s**t a Prince is talking to me’ kind not romantic ones. I have Malik.”

Tess grins. “But still, Charlie, the prince is… well, a prince. And he’s totally into you. You have to admit there’s something about him.”

“Actually, is it just me or does Malik and the prince look a lot alike?” Nia says raising an eyebrow

Arabella shakes her head, a playful smirk on her lips. “Please. They’re like night and day, beside being like… from the same country, so of course the have similar colouring. Zahir is this dazzling light, all charm and charisma, and Malik… well, he’s a servant. They’re nothing alike!”

I shake my head in amusement, defending Malik while my head flashes pictures with the memory of Zahir’s charming smile… are they alike? “I don’t know about that. They both have their own appeal. Malik has this depth, a warmth that feels genuine. Zahir seems… fun and charming, sure they have some of the same traits, but this is a small country and not super diverse .... also I am pretty sure the Prince was just being friendly.”

Nia leans back, studying me with a knowing look. “You’re saying that now, but what if Zahir is more than just a pretty face? What if you’re missing out on something amazing?”

“Or,” Arabella interjects, her voice dripping with playful skepticism, “what if Zahir is just a fleeting moment? You know how princes are; they come and go. But Malik, he could be the one, your soulmate.”

“I don’t know yet,” I admit, my thoughts swirling. “There’s something about Malik that feels real. We shared a moment last night that I can’t shake off. It’s different with him. I’m not ready to just toss that aside for a prince’s attention.”

Tessa nudges me with her elbow, a teasing glint in her eye. “But you have to admit, it’s kind of exciting, right? Having a prince interested in you? Even if it’s just for a day or two?”

I laugh, shaking my head. “I guess. But I don’t want to get caught up in the fantasy when I have something real with Malik. And who knows what could happen when we see each other again?”

Nia nudges me playfully. “Just don’t forget about us little people when you’re swept off your feet by your prince… or Prince charming.”

I chuckle, shaking my head at their playful banter. “I promise I won’t. But for now, I think I’d rather keep my feet on the ground with Malik. Besides, I’m sure Zahir will have his hands full with all these women anyway.”

Arabella feigns a gasp, clutching her chest dramatically. “Oh, how could you betray us like that? One prince in our midst and you’re just going to let him slip away?”

Tessa rolls her eyes, a grin spreading across her face. “You know what? I think you’re just trying to keep Charlie away, Arabella. You want him to notice you instead.”

“Please, I’m the one who deserves to catch his attention first.” Arabella retorts, crossing her arms in mock indignation. “You all have to admit, I’d be the better choice for a royal romance.”

I can’t help but laugh at their friendly rivalry. “Well, you all have your charms. But remember, I’m here too. And I’m not giving up on Malik, so I am no threat.”

“Fine, fine,” Nia concedes, her eyes sparkling with mischief. “But you better keep us updated on the prince’s every move… and if he tries to sweep you off your feet, you better not forget your friends and send him our way.”

As we share a laugh, I realize that no matter how charming Prince Zahir may be, the bonds I have with my friends… and the deeper connection I share with Malik… are irreplaceable. I may be swept up in the moment, but my heart knows where it truly belongs.