──────────
A WEEK HAS GONE BY since the Crown Prince of Havia left the grounds of Moravell. A lot has happened. He did not stay for his cousin's welcome-back party and did not bother to inform that he intended on leaving that night.
"Weary for your thoughts, miss?" one of the other ladies-in-waiting of the princess, Judith Melian asked as she handed her a glass of water. She got worried for the princess who absentmindedly stared at the skies through her suite for what seemed like hours.
"My life," Calista responded minutes after, "does not feel mine anymore."
Judith was unsure of what to say given that she was merely a servant to the princess and does not have this grand life in her arsenal. Unlike the lady who turned princess, Judith came from a family of servants. A family that was dedicated to serving the crown for generations. Her mouth opened for a reply, but nothing came out.
"I would like to take a walk in the garden." now that Arwin became occupied with the upcoming coronation, Calista has been spending her time in the gardens, by the library, or the knitting room specifically made for her. It was a gift from the king, who happened to know about her passion for knitting. She'd been in the room about three times this past week and it was everything she wanted. Her father did not approve of her putting effort into knitting, and would always complain when he'd see a knitting needle and threads in her room or quite literally anywhere else in his Manor. It was a relief to know her father-in-law did not mind. Or maybe he did but kept quiet about it, knowing that Arwin would step in and let his wife do anything she wants.
"A stroll in the garden without your husband?" Ariah commented once she caught sight of her sister-in-law alone, except for her lady-in-waiting and guards that were nearby. She was not with her husband.
"A busy week for the future king." was her only reply.
"I'm sure it is. What more when he's king?" the princess royal said in a modulated voice. She walked beside her, at a distance to show respect. "I don't think we've had the chance to have a moment alone. A bond, as sisters."
That was, in fact, true. Ever since Ariah was announced to the kingdom, she had got occupied with mingling with old friends and relatives. Calista was glad for her to be back, however, it felt as if she had a reason to return. Does she want the crown? She shook her head. It was too soon and disrespectful to assume such concept.
Setting that thought away, her eyes caught hers with glimmers. "Yes, I thought so too. We should have a girl's day, including your little sister. She's very lovely."
"I'll arrange the details, but it may happen after Arwin's coronation. I've got a full plate for these next three weeks."
"Oh, it's alright. I understand. I'm sure you've been busy adjusting and catching up with people. How long do you plan on staying?"
"Eager to get rid of me?" a chuckle came from her lips, "I'm not quite sure yet. A year, I suppose? We shall see how things will go."
"That's great to hear, Ariah." Calista hoped she pronounced her name correctly, it would be an embarrassment on her part if she didn't. "Have you been to Calrize Estate?"
"No," she replied, plucking flowers from a nearby bush. "That is his manor, right? Where both of you reside."
"Yes, you are correct. You should stop by sometime to check it out. It's a wonderful place, spacious, and has more privacy."
"I cannot believe my twin has his manor. I would have thought he'd reside in the palace like father and mother once he's out in the public eye."
Calista does not know their sibling issue or whatever was happening, but she's sure that's a hint of jealousy. Was Ariah jealous of him because he got the crown although she was the rightful heir? She was the firstborn, the same as Calista and they did not receive their due.
"Miss Ariah, you are called to the throne room by the Crown Prince." footsteps receding, Ariah bid her sister-in-law goodbye and followed the servant as he strutted toward the throne room. She did not bother to ask why she was called, she would know soon. The walk was filled with silence, the click of her heels against the marble walls was the only distraction keeping her from playing with the rings situated on her fingers.
"You called for me?"
"Yes," he replied. "I haven't seen you since last week. I also need your help with something."
"Is this about your wife? Oh my, you're smitten."
"I am only trying to please her."
"Well, what is it?"
On the other hand, Calista continued her walk without distractions. She asked Judith to fetch the book she was currently reading on one of the benches. The story was about a lady running away from her luscious life to live with a mere commoner. She did not know that the male was a powerful, beautiful creature who wanted nothing but a strand of her golden hair. A possession to be more powerful.
A young female servant called her, "Your Highness?"
"Yes?"
"Miss Latheron asked me to accompany you back to your suite, to prepare for the Queen's tea party." she replied, "Unless you are ready to head."
Tea parties have become a weekly occurrence in the princess' schedule. This was the second time in a week she would be sitting and mingling with other ladies while drinking tea, but now with the presence of her mother-in-law. Last week's tea party was awkward, to say the least. The ladies did not know how to strike up conversations with her, except for a couple of her genuine friends she was tied to since the beginning. Most of them, though, only wanted to get close to her because of her status. She could tell it from how they treated her, a careful and fragile being. They kept their distance with short greetings and clipped replies. It felt as if she did not belong with these celibate ladies talking about their suitors and the latest gossip of their towns, whereas she was stuck dealing with royal nonsense and providing heirs.
Looking down at her clothes -- a blouse that was tucked into her pencil skirt. It was formal but the only thing missing was a brimmed hat to pair with. "Do you have an idea where it'll be held?"
"I believe it will be at House Salvador."
"That's great," she replied. Calista was close friends with the young Duchess of the house, Samantha Salvador.
***
HE HEARD THEM. Arwin heard every word of his wife and cousin's conversation. It kept on repeating in his head this past week.
We left things in a rough patch. Contented with marrying my cousin two years after you promised to be my bride? A twist of fate.
His ears could not bear to hear another word of their conversation but he did linger around, enough to see what happened afterward. His wife and cousin kissed. His eyes were fueled with rage, seeing the woman he was supposed to love and his too-good of a cousin. He was sure they had some sort of relationship, even before this arranged marriage.
"Sir, the files you've requested are here." a few days ago, Arwin could not keep his curiosity. He wanted to know whatever happened between Calista and Declan, so he hired a private investigator to dig up their past lives and relationships. The file in his hands would help him know. Although what he was doing was technically a violation of privacy and could result in treason, he was ready to face the consequences. His stubborn mind could not wait. Before he could even open the first folder, the door to his study was opened.
"Your Highness," one of the King's guards greeted in a pant, "I bear with terrible news."
The prince motioned for him to continue, "His Majesty had a heart attack. The Queen has instructed me to collect you. They are currently being rushed in the royal clinic of the West wing."
For a moment, everything seemed to stop. Damn it. His father was getting sick as days went by. Without another word, Arwin sprinted off the office and headed straight to the west side of the palace. He did not care about the stares or murmurs as he rushed past the guards and servants. He wanted to get there as soon as he is able to.
"Mother?" Arwin found his mother on the brink of tears. Her face was swollen, hands trembling as she sat beside her husband on the right side of his bed.
"Oh, Arwin!" at the sight of her, he wanted to weep. It was becoming evident as days passed that his father was getting very ill. He had lost weight, his skin was losing its warm tone, and his lips were dry.
Arwin hugged his mother as she clung to him. She didn't want to let go but she knew he had to be near his father. Lilith composed herself after a moment of hesitation.
The Prince sat on his father's left side while his mother was on the left. They did not need to exchange words. Their presence was comfort. Sometime after, Ariah was escorted to the room. She sat beside Arwin and held his hand.
The moment the two royal children left the room, the Queen's scream of cry was heard all over.
──────────