Genevie sat by the window in her chamber, the golden light of the setting sun casting a warm glow over her face. Her eyes sparkled with a rare smile as she read the letter in her hands.
My Princess,
The land you requested is ready. Now, I need you and the owner to sign the letter attached to this one.
KA.
Genevie's grin widened, a surge of triumph coursing through her. However, the realization quickly set in that meeting Bridget without informing Alexander would arouse suspicion. She needed a plausible explanation for their business arrangement. She decided to write to Bridget, seeking advice on how to handle this delicate situation with Alexander.
A few days later, a response arrived from Bridget. Instead of directly answering Genevie's question, Bridget invited the royal family to a grand celebration, marking her official recognition as a duchess. Genevie quickly grasped Bridget's strategy; this public event would serve to deflect any suspicions about their clandestine dealings.
"Hannah, we're going to-" Genevie's words halted as she noticed Alexander standing at the door, his expression unreadable.
"I'm going with you," Alexander declared, his tone leaving no room for argument.
Genevie hesitated but knew fostering a good relationship with Alexander was crucial for her plans. "Fine. Hannah, prepare us matching outfits," she instructed, then turned to Alexander with a practiced smile. Alexander exhaled heavily, struggling to decipher Genevie's true intentions. He suspected this was all part of her elaborate scheme to maintain their facade of a romantic love story.
The evening of the celebration arrived, and the grand hall of Lady Bridget's castle was adorned with opulent decorations, glittering chandeliers, and luxurious tapestries. The air buzzed with excitement and anticipation. As they arrived, the herald announced their entrance.
"Crown Prince Alexander and Princess Genevie have arrived!" All eyes turned to them, and whispers filled the room like a rustling wind.
"Your Highness, I am so grateful you could make it," Bridget said, her voice laced with feigned surprise. "I thought you might not come."
"Of course we would come, right dear?" Genevie replied, looking at Alexander with a hint of playfulness.
"Yes, and we have an announcement to make," Alexander said, a grin spreading across his face.
Genevie's heart sank. This wasn't part of their plan. They had only agreed to act as a loving couple, nothing more.
"May I use this platform to share our joyous news?" Alexander asked, addressing the room.
"Of course, Your Highness," Bridget replied, playing along seamlessly.
"Oh? Are you going to tell them?" the king inquired, his curiosity piqued.
"Yes, father," Alexander confirmed, receiving a nod of approval.
Alexander took a deep breath and, with a formal yet warm tone, announced, "My wife and I are delighted to share the news that we are expecting our first child."
Lady Bridget raised her glass. "Long live Dradevows!" she shouted, her voice resonating through the hall.
"Long live Dradevows!" the guests echoed, their cheers filling the room.
Genevie felt a mix of anger and embarrassment. Alexander wrapped his arm around her waist, pulling her closer. She knew this was all part of Bridget's plan to mask their true intentions. The guests were now thoroughly convinced of their love story.
After the announcement, the ladies flocked to Genevie, showering her with congratulations. Bridget seized the moment to broach their business arrangement. "Princess, I've been considering this for a while. I think we would make excellent business partners," she said, her tone casual yet meaningful.
"Isn't that a wonderful idea?" the king interjected, wholeheartedly agreeing without considering the potential consequences.
Genevie glanced at Alexander, hoping he would support the idea as he was the key to her revenge.
"I think... that's a great idea too," Alexander agreed, and Genevie grinned. She and Bridget shook hands publicly, solidifying their partnership in front of everyone.
The next day, Bridget visited the castle. "Your Highness, Lady Bridget is here," Benjamin announced.
"Let her in," Genevie replied. Bridget entered the room, her presence exuding confidence, and Hannah closed the door behind her.
"Here's the deed to your land," Genevie said, handing Bridget the document.
"That was quick," Bridget remarked, signing the paper with a flourish. "By the way, G, how are you?"
Benjamin and Hannah exchanged uneasy glances at Bridget's informality, but Genevie didn't mind.
"I'm well. How's business?" Genevie asked, her tone genuinely curious.
"For now, everything is going smoothly. By the way, the Hunting Event is coming up. Are you going?" Bridget inquired, her eyes sparkling with excitement.
The Hunting Event was known as a romantic tradition where couples presented their kills to their loved ones. Genevie hesitated, the weight of the event pressing on her.
"I don't know," she admitted.
"Oh, come on. This is a great opportunity for you to climb up the social ladder," Bridget urged, her voice persuasive.
"Fine, I will. But I want you to participate as well," Genevie said, looking at Benjamin.
"Me?" Benjamin asked, clearly surprised.
"Yes, I want to see what your knight can do," Bridget said, smiling mischievously.
"But I have no one to give my catch to," Benjamin replied, his voice tinged with uncertainty.
"You don't have to give it to anyone unless you have someone in mind," Bridget teased.
Benjamin chuckled; the sound tinged with a hint of sadness. He had given up on love long ago. "I will do as you wish, Your Highness," he said, bowing respectfully.
That night, Alexander entered their shared chamber. The room was dimly lit by flickering candlelight, casting soft shadows on the walls. "How are you feeling?" he asked, his voice genuinely concerned.
Genevie felt a pang of irritation. "Do not worry, I have no intention of harming myself or your heir," she replied coldly, not meeting his gaze.
"Hey, I'm sorry. I know it was wrong to make the announcement without consulting you," Alexander said, his tone sincere. He was trying to mend their fractured relationship, realizing the depth of the damage his actions had caused.
"What are you apologizing for? Since when did you decide to act nice? Stop it; you're making me sick," Genevie snapped, her eyes blazing with anger.
Alexander sighed, his shoulders sagging. "This won't do. I take back all the harsh words I said to you on our first night together," he said, his voice filled with regret.
Genevie chuckled sarcastically. "Are you swallowing your own words now?" she asked, her tone mocking.
"I am serious. This is for our future," Alexander said earnestly, his eyes searching hers for any sign of understanding.
Genevie was about to retort but stopped herself. 'There will be no future for Dradevows. I will make sure it vanishes. Should I have some fun before ending everything?' she thought.
"I will think about it," Genevie said, her voice softening slightly but still avoiding his gaze.
"Good. I hope we can work together," Alexander said, extending his hand.
Genevie ignored his hand, looking at it coldly. Alexander withdrew it, his expression pained. He turned to leave.
"I want to go to the Hunting Event," Genevie said suddenly, her voice breaking the tense silence.
"Are you sure?" Alexander asked, concern flickering in his eyes.
"I am fine," Genevie replied firmly, her resolve unshaken.