Chapter 16 -The Long Wait

Prince Xavier waited, and waited for days but no news came from Lady Melissa after that. Days turned to weeks, weeks turned to months. After waiting for such a long time but still didn't hear from her, he was worried that something had happened to her. After the last palace banquet, Lady Melissa seemed to have vanished and she never appear in any social events anymore. No one knew what happened to her. Prince Xavier had tried to get information but everyone from the Knights' Estates was tight lipped and no news were leaked on their Lady's wellbeing. Prince Xavier nearly went crazy trying to find out the truth. She had clearly promised to give him an answer, and he knew she wasn't the type to forget about it easily.

Unpleasant rumours started to spread about Lady Melissa after that. Some said she was disfigured and became so ugly that she didn't dare to show herself in public. Some said she was embarrassed as she had no friends so staying home was the best option. Some even went as far as saying she had contracted an incurable disease and was dying. These rumours died down eventually especially due to Lord Melvin's intervention. 

Prince Xavier had on numerous occasions wanted to inform the Queen and even went as far as wanting to visit Lady Melissa at her home. However, after contemplating deeply about this, he knew that if he made such a move and his affections for her came to light, it might tarnish Lady Melissa's reputation even more, especially since he didn't know how she felt towards him. Everything would be different if she had accepted him in her life, but now things were hanging, as he's still waiting for her reply. Helpless and in despair, Prince Xavier had no choice but to wait until he could see her again.

On the other hand, he became colder and more reticent over time, even the Queen was baffled as to why his once loving son had suddenly shut himself out overnight but Prince Xavier only kept silent when she asked him. Prince Xavier would only appear when he was needed to perform his duties as the Crown Prince. On other time, he would spend time either tending to his rose garden, or kept himself shut in his study or room. 

For two years, Prince Xavier had kept his hopes up. He knew in his heart that Lady Melissa shared the same feelings as him. She turned 18 this year, a suitable marriageable age for a noble born lady. Prince Xavier planned to inform the Queen about his feelings for her soon. Regardless of what happened, Prince Xavier had made up his mind to propose to Lady Melissa. Once they're betrothed, he could ask her what happened two years ago. He's sure there's some explanation for her sudden disappearance.

Once he made up his mind, Prince Xavier went to seek audience with his mother one day. However, as he approached her inner chambers, he heard the very name which made him froze. He couldn't help but listened on tentatively. He knew he shouldn't have eavesdropped but hearing Lady Melissa's name, Prince Xavier was curious as to why his mother mentioned her. 

"Yes, I think Lady Melissa is the best choice for him. Although we haven't seen her for a while, according to Duke Malcom, his daughter is doing well and loves spending time indoors. She's not at all like what the rumour has said." The Queen said. 

"I'm sure Your Majesty's choice is the right one. Lady Melissa turned 18 this year, so she's of age. If Duchess Rose is still alive, she'd be delighted to have this match with the royal family." Another woman's voice could be heard.

'A match with the royal family. Does Mother intend to choose Lady Melissa for me?' Prince Xavier was ecstatic upon hearing this. He decided not to interfere with his mother's plan this time and would wait until she approach him again with this marriage prospect. Feeling as if a heavy burden had been lifted off his shoulders, Prince Xavier walked away happily. He was also glad to learn that Lady Melissa was doing well.