Re-loved

CHAPTER ONE: LOST

Liam's POV

My existence has always followed a linear path. The loss of my mother has profoundly affected me, and ascending to the role of prince in this realm is a privilege beyond ordinary aspirations.

"Your highness, the king requests your presence," my loyal attendant Gregory interrupts my contemplation.

"I shall attend," I respond, releasing the final target into the air and handing my shotgun to the courtyard attendant.

Following a swift change, I proceed directly to the throne room.

"Father, I understand you wish to see me," I announce as I enter. Glancing to the side, I notice my stepbrother Cynfael, his mother, and other emirates sitting beside the throne.

"Take a seat, Liam," Father commands with a firm gaze.

"I prefer to stand, right here is fine," I assert, aware of the tension in the room due to our strained relationship.

"Emirates, let us commence," Father directs.

"We have decided that you should begin your duties as the crowned prince," the representative of the emirates states.

"I am aware of that. However, I am here because..." I begin, interrupted by the king.

"The king believes it is beneficial for both you and Cynfael to undergo training together," the representative continues.

"What?! No, Father, I cannot agree to this," I protest.

"I am the king, and my decision stands," Father asserts.

"Bringing this bastard and his mother into the palace was not enough; now you intend to pass my position to another," I express angrily.

"Do not address me in such a manner," Cynfael retorts, rising from his seat.

"My son is of royal lineage and has the potential to be a crown prince, unlike this pretender who claims rightful inheritance," Cynfael's mother interjects.

"Do not disrespect me, woman," I retort.

"And do not disrespect my wife," the king commands.

"When you engage in reckless behavior and tarnish your reputation, you fail to consider the consequences, always associating with a worthless crowd," Father admonishes.

"Father!" I exclaim.

"It is Your Majesty to you," the king corrects.

I shake my head and offer a wry smile.

"If you wish to appoint him as the crowned prince, go ahead. I have no need for the title. You may as well keep it for yourself," I declare as I turn to leave.

"Liam, you will not leave this room until I have finished speaking," Father calls out.

"It is Prince Liam, Your Majesty," I reply as I exit.

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"How dare he betray me like this? Preferring that fool over me," I exclaimed furiously.

"The nerve!!!" I yelled, hurling objects in my rage.

"Your majesty," a royal attendant interjected.

"What now?!! Can't you all just leave me in peace?" I snapped.

"It's a missive from Lord Darrick."

I stormed out of the chamber to retrieve the letter.

"You may go," I dismissed the attendant.

Darrick, a cherished friend of many years, had penned the missive.

Upon reading it, a smile graced my lips, brightening my day. A manor party awaits, adding a delightful touch to my plans.