12

"In two days time, we can visit the new bakery you built for Noah, dear," Dad said as he placed the books back on the shelves.

We just finished our afternoon lessons. This time, it was about the people's characteristics. He taught me how to communicate with the people and how to earn their trust. He said that what matters most to the people is our relationship with them and how we see them as humans.

I gathered the papers on my table then handed it to him. "That's nice. I can't believe it's already done."

"You said you didn't want it to be too grand or too simple, so the engineers really did their best this time."

Suddenly, there was a knock on the door. "King Andriego?"

We turned and saw Queen Josephine by the door. I stood and curtsied.

"Yes, Queen Josephine?" Dad answered as he straightened his coat.

"If I may so, I would like to request for something," She started.

"Of course. What is it?"

She took a deep breath then smiled at us. "As you know, it will be Brylle's birthday tomorrow."

My heart pounded. I almost forgot. Prince Brylle was Queen Josephine and King Ricardo's eldest son. He was a year older than Thomas and Althea. 12 years ago, when Wierxia was still young, they had a baby which the country rejoiced in. One night, when they were celebrating Brylle's 8th birthday, there was an invasion. Queen Josephine and King Ricardo were separated from their children when the guards tried to control the situation. A few hours later, when they were getting back together, Thomas and Althea were the only ones to be found. Brylle was taken that night. Queen Josephine locked herself in their room for a week. She went out only once a day to eat. Their family suffered for 5 years, before finally accepting the tragedy.

"Is it okay for us to celebrate it here?" She softly asked.

"We would be delighted to prepare a feast for Brylle," Dad beamed. Queen Josephine thanked us then left.

I sighed then laid my head on Dad's shoulder. "I'm glad Queen Josephine is finally getting the hang of it."

Dad patted my head. "It's difficult, but she's getting there."

Dinner went by in a flash. Mom was teaching Althea how to sew dresses this past few days and Thomas was having sword practices every now and then with King Ricardo. I guess Keith is getting bored already.

I immediately excused myself after eating then headed to the kitchen. The chefs and maids bowed at me as soon as I entered. The kitchen was busy but the atmosphere didn’t feel chaotic.

"Is Noah here?" I asked.

"Hey, Princess!" I heard Noah call from one of the stations.

I walked towards him and saw that he was reading a recipe book. I noticed that his station was organized and not messy at all. There was only a book leaning on the metal border.

"Are you busy?" I asked as I study what he was doing.

"Not much. I'm trying to learn new recipes for tomorrow. I heard we're having a party," He said, not taking his eyes off the book.

"Uh, about that. Can I ask a favor?" I asked.

He closed the book then wiped his hands on his apron before facing me.

"Sure. What is it, Princess?"

The moment he looked at me, I almost forgot what I was going to ask him. He looked really nice with his messy hair and apron. It really suits him, doing the thing he loves. I almost got distracted that I noticed he was already staring at me. I immediately went back to my senses.

"I was wondering if you can make the dessert for tomorrow?" 

He raised a brow. "And that is?"

I cleared my throat. "Queen Josephine and King Ricardo like cheesecakes too. Thomas and Althea prefer it more with blueberry. You can mix up something like that, right?"

He crossed his arms then smiled. "Well, you know cheesecakes and experimenting are my specialties."

I giggled. "Thanks, Noah."

"No problem."

For a few seconds, we were only looking at each other, figuring out what to say next since the conversation already ended. That was the moment I had a good look at him. He had nice hazelnut eyes, just like Thomas, and long eyelashes. His lips curved like a small heart on each side and-

"Princess?" He suddenly called.

I felt my whole face warm up. I can't believe I was staring at him and observing him!

"Oh! I- I uh- I'm sorry. I should head back. You're probably busy," I stuttered.

"No no, it's okay. Would you like to try the cake I just made?" He offered then showed me a mini cake in a round plate, with strawberries and wafers on top.

"That looks amazing," I whispered.

He chuckled then sliced a piece. I noticed that when he cut open the cake, there were different layers of colors inside.

"I mixed up different flavors inside hoping for a fresh new flavor. It’s basically strawberry, peach and vanilla." I grabbed the plate from his hand and took a bite.

I felt my cheeks turn rose. It was a shivering yet fresh flavor. The flavor of strawberry and peach really complimented each other but the addition of vanilla made it not too sour or strong. It was like a perfect combination. I couldn't help myself from chuckling.

He looked confused. "Is it bad?"

I smiled then looked at him. "It tastes absolutely wonderful."

His face suddenly lit up. There I felt it. I felt waves and shivers through-out my body. My hands went from cold to warm. My face felt rosy and I suddenly froze.

"I'm glad you liked it," He said. He was about to take the plate from my hands when our fingers suddenly touched. He flinched, so did I.

Standing there, we looked at each other. He looked a little shocked and we were not moving at all. I feel like my face is getting a sun-burn from being too warm.

"I- I'm s-sorry. Did I...?" I was suddenly cut off by his laughter. It was a new sound in my ears. It was like an angel’s choir.

"What are you saying sorry for?" He asked. I cleared my throat, hoping that would stop myself from blushing even more.

"I don't know. I just felt like apologizing," I muttered.

He smiled. "There is nothing in this world that you should be apologizing at me for."

I didn't know how to stop myself. I froze in that moment. I can't deny it, I can't escape it. Everything was confusing me even more. The emotions suddenly bottled up and I can't understand why. My heart was beating so fast and I seem to be half confused. Why am I so nervous? Why can't I move? Why am I not looking away?

"Your Highness?"

Someone suddenly called and I was back to my senses. I looked behind Noah and saw Chef Kai looking at us.

"You look pale, Your Highness," He said.

"Are you tired? You should rest already," Noah said as he placed the plate on the table.

I cleared my throat then straightened my gown. "Uh- yes. I do feel a little tired. Thank you, Noah, for the wonderful cake. I should be heading out now."

Noah bowed. "My pleasure, Your Highness."

When I was about to leave, I heard Chef Kai's laughter and Noah's voice. As soon as I got out of the kitchen, I basically ran to my room. I even heard Sir Saint calling me but I was too distracted to stop. 

I held my chest tight. I can't seem to understand what's happening with my feelings. Yesterday, I was in love with Angelo, but now? Why do I smile more often when I’m with Noah? Why do I feel more comfortable with Noah? Why does his laughter sound so soothing to me?

"I can't. Not another one,” I told myself.

If I can't save my relationship with Angelo, how can I possibly save Noah?