Alexandre

When I woke up that morning, I opened my eyes with the Duke's unexpected vision next to my bed, with his arms crossed and a furious expression on his face. I confess that I was frightened by your sudden presence.

What's going on? - I asked, trying to understand the situation.

The Duke let out an exasperated sigh before speaking. - I heard some worrying rumors, Alexandre. It looks like you're involved with a certain Isabela. - Your eyes were burning with fury.

I was confused, because I had no idea who this person was. My mind quickly tried to remember if I had met someone with that name recently, but nothing came to my mind.

I don't know who you're talking about, my uncle. I wouldn't get involved with anyone without the king knowing - I answered, honestly.

That's what you say, but I can't be at ease with these rumors running loose - the Duke replied, his voice still loaded with anger.

I took a deep breath, trying to stay calm in the face of the tense situation. - Uncle, I have no idea who this Isabela is. - I tried to explain, keeping my tone calm and controlled. - If someone spread these rumors, it may have been just to cause problems and create conflicts.

The Duke snorted, still suspicious. - I hope that's it. But you need to remember your responsibilities, Alexandre. He is already committed to the princess chosen by the king, and we cannot allow anything to hinder this marriage.

I agreed with my head, understanding my uncle's concern. Political marriage was an important decision, and I didn't want to disappoint him. However, I also could not accept unfounded accusations that threatened my reputation.

I understand, uncle. And I promise I will be careful with my actions. Nothing will interfere with the marriage - I said, with conviction.

The Duke seemed a little more relieved with my answer. - I hope you're serious, Alexandre. We cannot tolerate any more of these attitudes that may tarnish the name of the royal family.

I nodded again, reaffirming my determination to follow real expectations. After the Duke left the room, I was alone with my thoughts, trying to understand where the rumors about this Isabela came from. I knew I needed to act with caution and avoid any behavior that could be misunderstood.

The weight of the imminent political alliance weighed on my shoulders. The idea of marrying a princess I barely knew, just for political convenience, was something that saddened me deeply. I longed for a marriage based on love and passion, and not just on power agreements.

While I was lamenting, Nicholas, my faithful friend and commander of the guard, tried to console me. He had always been loyal and understanding with me, but even his comforting words could not completely dispel my melancholy.

Alexander, you are the crown prince, the future king of this kingdom. You can have many women by your side, even if you marry this princess - he said sincerely.

I sighed, understanding the logic behind his words. In fact, as a future king, I would have many responsibilities and could have concubines or lovers, as was common in royalty. However, my heart did not conform to the idea of a marriage without love.

I don't want to betray anyone, Nicolau. I want to marry someone I love, someone I can really share my life with - I admitted with regret.

Nicolau nodded, understanding my dilemma. - I understand, Alexandre. But you know that sometimes our choices are not entirely in our hands. Royalty often needs to make sacrifices for the sake of the kingdom.

I know, Nicolau, but it's so hard to accept this - I replied, the sadness reflected in my voice.

He put a comforting hand on my shoulder. - Let's find a solution, my friend. Perhaps, over time, you can build a solid and respectful relationship with your future wife. And who knows, love may arise with time.

I hope so - I murmured, wanting to believe Nicolau's words.

We spent the day on the ship, with my sadness still accompanying me. As I walked through the corridors, my mind continued to seek a solution to my dilemma. Deep in my heart, I knew I needed to find a way to be faithful to myself and to what I believed.

The night came, and with it, the feeling of being stuck at a crossroads. My desire to get married for love and my obligation as a prince were in conflict. The future was uncertain, and I wondered if I could find a way that would reconcile my personal happiness with real duty.

While the storm roared outside, I remained calm in my room, used to the bad weather. However, Nicolau, my loyal friend and commander of the guard, was not so calm. He seemed restless and somewhat frightened by the violence of the waves.

Nicolau, you don't have to be so worried. The ship is solid, and the crew is used to facing storms like this - I tried to reassure him.

He looked at me with a pale expression, but forced a smile in response. - I know, Your Highness, but I can't help feeling a little nauseous with all this swing.

Well, I can try to distract you with some story or talk about lighter subjects, if you want - I offered, knowing that distraction could be a way to calm you down.

Nicholas nodded, looking grateful for the offer. - Yes, it would be good, Your Highness. Anything that can take my mind off the rough sea for a moment would be welcome.

With this, I started to tell some stories about my past adventures, about the lands I visited and the people I met. Nicolau listened attentively, and little by little, the glow of curiosity returned to his eyes.

You know, Your Highness, I am always impressed by your stories and how you deal with all these dangerous situations so calmly - he commented, already more comfortable with the conversation.

Well, as a prince, I am trained from an early age to face challenges and make difficult decisions. But it's not always easy, Nicolau. We all have our moments of uncertainty and fear - I admitted, reflecting on the challenges we faced in real life and not just in the stories I told.

Nicholas nodded again, seeming to reflect on my words. - It's true, Your Highness. Courage does not mean not being afraid, but facing it anyway.

Exactly. And you're a brave man, Nicolau. Your loyalty and dedication to our guard are admirable - I praised sincerely.

He smiled with gratitude, looking more confident. - Thank you, Your Highness. Your words mean a lot to me.

As we continued to talk, the storm outside was still roaring, but inside my room, we found a little peace and comfort in each other. That moment of companionship and friendship in the midst of the hustle and bustle of the sea was something I valued very much.