CHAPTER 24 ALARIC Today was the day I would be spending with the ladies, it would be supervised. The setting was made in such a way that we would have a whole lot of audience watching and listening to us as we went on a date. It would last for an hour for each lady and get to talk to them, know what they fancied. I was looking forward to It, I know I already had a pre-existing bias, because I wanted to be with Amelia but I also just wanted to get to see for myself how I felt for other ladies. I sat across from Lucia, the air brimming with anticipation, I couldn't help but feel a tinge of apprehension. Our conversation started off with the usual pleasantries, but something felt off, scripted almost. I longed for genuine connection, for a glimpse into her true self. I know that people say a lot of things about her but maybe I could find out something about her that made her special. "You look beautiful today," I complimented Lady Lucia and she grinned at me, it was a soft grin, not
CHAPTER 25AMELIAIt was almost my turn to have my date with Alaric, I had sat down to listen to his date with other ladies, I can't lie, at one point I was jealous because I felt he was giving them so much chance to actually talk and prove themselves. I didn't know what exactly to do, but just to sit down and watch things unfold. But it was Bianca's date with him that caught my attention and a lot of other people's attention, they now believe I didn't want to win, some said it was a lie and that I had just played Bianca, that wasn't far fetched because I wasn't really completely honest with Bianca, I knew I needed to come clean before it was too late, but for now I needed to concentrate on making an impression. Constance and I stood in the grand hall, engaged in a rather unconventional practice session. She was determined to teach me the ways of ladylike demeanor, and I, well, I was doing my best to keep up. The struggle was evident on both our faces. "I watched the other ladies a
AMELIAI was overwhelmed with joy, as I knew I had done well on my date with Alaric. We had spent longer time than any other competitors talking. As Constance embraced me with joy, celebrating my successful date, I couldn't help but bask in the warmth of her support. Her words of praise uplifted my spirits, but little did I know that a storm was brewing in the form of Bianca. I knew this was the battle that awaited me after my date with AlaricIn the corner, Bianca pulled me aside, her eyes burning with accusation. "You're a liar, Amelia," she hissed, her voice dripping with venom.I was taken aback by her sudden hostility, my brows furrowing in confusion. "Bianca, what are you talking about? Why are you calling me a liar?" I knew I should be too forward about my approach with her, maybe she was talking about something else, at least I hoped.She scoffed, her voice sharp. "You tricked me, Amelia. You made me believe you didn't want to win this competition, so I would let my guard dow
ALARIC I entered my chambers, a mixture of excitement and apprehension swirled within me. The five names echoed in my mind—Amelia, Charlotte, Jane, Bianca, and Lucia—the contenders I had chosen to accompany me. This time it was solely my choice, as I was the one on a date with them.Each one had captivated me in their own way, but it was Amelia who held a special place in my heart. She was the one that prove herself to not be scripted and reading straight out of a lady's handbook, I hope everyone had saw what I saw in her and no one would question when my final decision to make he my queen is made.Just as I began to settle into my thoughts, Boaz, my trusted advisor, entered the room. His face was filled with concern, and I knew something weighed heavily on his mind."Alaric, there's been talk circulating about your connection with Amelia," Boaz began, his voice laced with caution. "People are speculating that she may be the one to win your heart."A smile tugged at the corners of my
AmeliaDays here seemed to go slow, but I had found ways to keep myself busy. I lay in my bed, engrossed in a book, I heard a faint creak from the door. Startled, I turned my head to see Alaric, the king I loved , sneaking into my room. I couldn't help but arch an eyebrow at him, my curiosity piqued."Alaric, how on earth did you manage to sneak into my room? You're the king, for goodness sake! Someone would easily notice!" I exclaimed, a mix of surprise and amusement in my voice.With a mischievous grin on his face, he replied, "Ah, my dear Amelia, I have my ways. A king must keep his skills sharp, you know. Besides, I simply couldn't resist the opportunity to see you."I couldn't help but chuckle at his audacity. "Well, you certainly have a knack for surprises, Alaric. But what brings you here in the dead of night? Shouldn't you be attending to your royal duties?"He took a seat on the edge of my bed, his eyes sparkling with excitement. "Ah, my dear, it's the upcoming herbal tea co
AMELIA"I am losing my mind and I can't help it," I murmured. I prepared for the competition, Lucia, a rival contestant, couldn't resist the opportunity to taunt me. She approached with a smug smirk, her voice dripping with arrogance."Well, well, Amelia. I see you've managed to stumble your way into this competition once again. Just a stroke of luck, I suppose," Lucia sneered, her tone condescending.I straightened my posture, refusing to let her words dampen my spirits. With a playful smile, I retorted, "Ah, Lucia, always so charming with your compliments. But you know, luck can only take you so far. Perhaps today, it will be my skills that shine."Lucia's eyes narrowed, clearly taken aback by my confident response. She scoffed, attempting to regain her composure. "Skills? Please, Amelia. Everyone knows you're just a mediocre Lady, riding on the coattails of fortune. Today will prove that."I chuckled lightly, a twinkle of mischief in my eyes. "Ah, Lucia, you underestimate me. Whil
AMELIAAs the last day of the competition loomed closer, Alaric and I found solace in each other's company. We sat together, our hands entwined, discussing our hopes and dreams for the future. The weight of keeping our relationship a secret had taken its toll on us, and now, in this intimate moment, we poured our hearts out to one another."I can't believe it's almost over," I said, my voice trembling with a mixture of excitement and fear. "But I'm scared, Alaric. What if the last competition is something I can't do? What if I fail?"Alaric turned to face me, his gaze filled with unwavering confidence. "Amelia, my love," he said, his voice gentle yet resolute, "I've seen you accomplish the impossible. I've witnessed you learn new skills in a matter of weeks, defying all odds. Trust me when I say that there's nothing you can't overcome."His words touched my heart, and I couldn't help but feel a surge of determination. "But Alaric, what if this time it's different? What if it's beyond
AMELIALady Giselle's announcement hit me like a wave crashing against the shore. The final competition was indeed knitting, but not just any knitting—it was machine knitting. My heart sank, and a frown etched itself upon my face. All my practice and preparation seemed to crumble before my eyes."Machine knitting?" I muttered in disbelief, my voice filled with frustration. "Not even handmade knitting? This is not what I had anticipated."Constance, always my pillar of strength, gently placed a hand on my shoulder. "Amelia, my dear, I know it's not what you hoped for, but don't let it discourage you. You've come so far, and you can still give it your best."I sighed, my mind a whirlwind of emotions. "But Constance, I've practiced and honed my skills in traditional knitting. I have no experience with these machines. How can I possibly compete?"Constance's eyes sparkled with unwavering belief. "Amelia, remember that you are capable of learning and adapting. Even though it may be challen
CHAPTER 43AMELIAAs the days passed after our wedding, I began to feel something different within me. At first, I brushed it off as the excitement and joy of our new life as husband and wife. But as the feeling persisted, I couldn't ignore the possibility that I might be pregnant.One morning, I decided to take a pregnancy test in one of the dragon healer house, my heart pounding with anticipation. As I waited for the results, I couldn't help but feel a mix of nerves and excitement. When the test confirmed my suspicion, tears of joy filled my eyes."Alaric!" I called out, rushing to find him. "I have something to tell you!"He met me with a concerned look, but it quickly turned to curiosity when he saw the tears in my eyes."Amelia, what is it? Are you alright?" he asked, taking my hands in his."I'm more than alright," I said, my voice trembling with excitement. "I'm pregnant, Alaric! We're going to be parents!"His eyes widened in surprise, and a wide smile broke across his face. "
CHAPTER 42AMELIAAs the date for our wedding and my coronation drew near, the excitement in the kingdom was palpable. The preparations for the grand ceremony were in full swing, and the palace was abuzz with activity. Amelia and Constance, my dearest friend and confidante, were by my side, helping me with every detail."Amelia, this is going to be the most spectacular event the kingdom has ever seen," Constance exclaimed, her eyes shining with enthusiasm.I smiled, feeling a mixture of nervousness and anticipation. "I can't believe it's finally happening, Constance. I never thought I'd be standing here, about to become queen."Constance gave me a reassuring hug. "You deserve this, Amelia. You've faced so much, and now it's time for you to be celebrated and loved."As we continued with the preparations, the palace was transformed into a breathtaking vision of beauty. Lavish decorations adorned every corner, and the scent of fresh flowers filled the air. The ballroom was being prepared
CHAPTER 41ALARICAs the dust settled after the scary events that had unfolded, I stood before the people of my kingdom, my heart heavy with the weight of the decisions I had to make. Gregory's betrayal had caused great pain and turmoil, and I knew that justice had to be served."People of the kingdom," I addressed them, my voice firm yet tinged with sadness. "Today, we have faced battle and deception from one of our own. Gregory's actions have caused harm and division among us, and I cannot stand idly by."The crowd murmured, their eyes filled with anticipation as they waited to hear what I would do. They trusted me to lead them, and I had to be strong in my resolve."As punishment for his betrayal, I hereby banish Gregory and his family from the kingdom," I declared. "They will no longer be welcome within these walls."A mix of gasps and whispers spread through the crowd, and I could see the shock and disbelief in their eyes. Banishing a family was no small decision, but I knew it w
CHAPTER 40AMELIAAs I struggled against the restraints that held me captive, my heart sank as I looked into Lucia's cold, menacing eyes. She had transformed into a dragon, her scales gleaming with malice, and I knew I was no match for her strength. Fear gripped me, but I refused to show weakness."Why are you doing this, Lucia?" I asked, trying to keep my voice steady. "We were never friends but I never hated you, I thought even once, when all this was over we could be friends."Lucia laughed, her voice filled with bitterness. "Friends? Ha! You will never my friend, Amelia. You were always the golden child, the one everyone adored. I should have been the queen, not you!"Tears welled up in my eyes as I struggled to understand her betrayal. "Lucia, I never wanted to take anything from you. I never wanted to be queen. It wasn't my choice."She sneered, her claws inching closer. "Oh, please! Spare me your pathetic excuses. You stole everything I ever wanted, and now it's time for you to
CHAPTER 39AMELIAThe morning of my wedding day arrived, and the excitement mixed with nerves consumed me. I confided in Constance, my loyal friend and bridesmaid, about my jittery feelings."Constance, I can't help but feel like something bad is about to happen," I admitted, fidgeting with the lace on my gown.She smiled reassuringly, placing a gentle hand on my shoulder. "Amelia, it's natural to have a case of nerves before the big day. But don't let fear cloud this moment. You're about to marry the love of your life, Alaric, and it's going to be a beautiful day."I took a deep breath, trying to push away the foreboding sense lingering at the back of my mind. "You're right, Constance. I must focus on the happiness ahead."As the ceremony approached, my heart pounded louder with every passing minute. My father, looking dashing in his formal attire, came to take me to the aisle. "You look stunning, my dear," he said, his eyes shimmering with pride and love."Thank you, Father," I repl
CHAPTER 38AMELIAThe day of the palace celebrations was finally here, and excitement filled the air! The village was adorned with colorful decorations, and the sweet aroma of freshly baked treats wafted through the streets. Alaric and I had gone back to my hometown and I felt good to be finally home."Amelia, my dear," my mother said with a twinkle in her eyes, "your father and I have something important to discuss with you."I furrowed my brows, wondering what it could be. "What is it, Mother?"My father smiled warmly, putting a comforting hand on my shoulder. "Alaric has asked for your hand in marriage, Amelia."My heart skipped a beat, and my cheeks flushed with a mix of surprise and joy. "Oh! Really?" I stammered, trying to contain my emotions."Yes, my dear," my mother chimed in, her voice gentle. "He came to us with a sincere heart and formally asked for your hand. We couldn't be happier for both of you."Tears of happiness welled up in my eyes, and I hugged my parents tightly.
CHAPTER 37ALARICAs I stood before the entire kingdom, my heart pounded with a mix of nervousness and excitement. This was the moment I had been waiting for—the moment to right the wrongs and reveal the truth about the competition.With a deep breath, I climbed onto the stage, facing the expectant crowd. The anticipation in their eyes was palpable, and I knew I had their full attention. This was my chance to be a leader, to show them the strength of justice and the power of truth."My fellow citizens," I began, my voice carrying across the square, "today, I stand before you to address a matter of great importance—a matter that has affected us all."I could feel their curiosity growing, and I took a moment to gather my thoughts before continuing. "During the recent competition, there was an unfortunate incident that led to confusion and doubt," I explained, my eyes scanning the crowd."But today, I am here to set things right," I declared, my voice strong and resolute. "I have come to
CHAPTER 36AMELIAAlaric and I have found a habit of seeing each other in secret. I didn't like keeping our relationship a secret but right now, that was the only way we could be with each other. He came into my room this night like he has been doing all throughout.I lost every sense of reasoning when I gazed at him and trailed his eyes, he was staring at my breast, I wasn't wearing any bra and my nipple lines were visible from my silky dress."Just call my name," he muttered to me, his voice was hoarse and you can see how he longed for me. I was trying to fight every will in me to say no, no to him pinning me to the wall and having my body press to his. "Alaric," I whispered and that was the tipping point for us, he took my lips into his, kissing me hungrily. He lifted me and placed me on top of the counter, While our lips parted for a split second to breathe, it was just like going underwater and coming up for air. I grabbed his hand and pulled him to me, our lips meeting in a
LUCIA As I sat there, feeling humiliated and angry, I called for my handmaid to distract myself with a pedicure. "Can you believe the audacity of Amelia?" I lamented bitterly.The maid frowned, curious about what had happened. "What did she do, Your Grace?""She thinks she's so superior to everyone else," I said with a hint of venom in my voice. "I hate her so much."The maid hesitated for a moment before asking a daring question, "Why did you agree so easily to the crime they accused you of?"I sighed, feeling a mixture of frustration and determination. "I have my plans, my dear. I can't rush the whole process. At that moment, there was nothing I could do. Those two incompetent maids had already confessed, and the evidence against me was overwhelming. It was the only reasonable thing to do."The maid nodded, understanding my predicament. "You're wise, Your Grace. It was a strategic move."I smirked, feeling a sense of pride. "It has nothing to do with wisdom, my dear. It's about kno