The Prince and His Girl

Tobi's POV I stood alone in the throne room, facing my parents with a cold stare. The room was built to impress—ornate rugs covered the marble floors, and every inch of wall space was dominated by gilded tapestries and coats of arms. King Wren and Queen Catherine sat almost peacefully on their golden thrones, clad in blue velvet, elevated so they could always look down on whoever stood before them. "I will not agree to this arrangement," I said, scowling. "So you'd best find yourself another prince and son." "Come now, Tobias," King Wren sighed. "You are not a boy any longer. This is your duty." "Lady Adelaide is a fine young woman. If you got to know her, you might even grow to love her one day," Queen Catherine offered gently. "She is not my mate, nor will she ever be." "But Tobias, it’s been two years since your first shift," my mother said, sadness softening her features. "And you have yet to find her." My jaw clenched. They didn’t understand. Couldn’t understand. "How about a deal then?" King Wren arched a brow. "One year. Go out there, look for her. If you don't find this girl in twelve months, you are to return home and marry Lord Cadmus's daughter. End of discussion." I didn't respond. My silence was answer enough.