The Rightful Bride Chapter 18

Rose nuzzles Harald’s cheek. He wakes.

“What time is it?” he says.

“It’s currently 07:00,” Lira says.

He stretches and Rose screeches, nuzzling his cheek.

“I’m awake,” he says. “We’ll have breakfast in a few minutes.”

She shifts closer, settling her head in his chest.

“Are you feeling better?” he says.

She nods.

“That’s good,” he says.

She examines his face. He still looks tired. She’s been waking him up a lot, but the rain is gone now. She’ll be okay for a while.

“Breakfast will be brought in a few minutes,” Lira says.

“Alright,” he says. “Thank you, Lira.”

He sits up, shifting Rose.

“Can you get ready?” he says.

She nods, nuzzling his cheek. She flies off the bed.

He’s dressed for the day when Rose returns. She flies to his shoulder and they enter the dining room.

“Good morning,” Mother Irina says.

Rose flies to her and nuzzles her cheek. She does the same for Natalie.

“I’m glad you’re better, Rose,” Mother Irina says.

Harald sits and Rose flies to the chair beside him.

“We saw the announcement,” Mother Natalie says. “This should grab her attention. So, do you have the form ready?”

“It is,” he says. “It’ll come out on schedule.”

“Very good. We’ve been taking care of the plans for the ball. Everything’s going well.”

He nods as the dining room door opens. A tray is placed at the center of the table.

“Thank you,” he says.

Rose screeches in excitement when the dishes are uncovered. Irina smiles.

“Yes,” she says. “The kitchen made your favorite today.”

She devours everything she can. She’s careful when she drinks her milk. She moves to Harald’s lap when she’s done.

“Mother,” he says, “are you going to be okay with the amount of recording that’s going to happen?”

“Of course,” Mother Irina says.

“Yes,” Mother Natalie says. “Many have begun to remove their children from the palace.”

“What about Grandmother?” he says.

“She hasn’t said anything yet,” Mother Irina says, “but I think she’ll be alright.”

Harald nods, resolving to see her today.

“We need to keep Rose away from the cameras,” Mother Natalie says.

“We will,” he says. “If it’s not possible, we’ll edit her out or blur her face.”

“People won’t be allowed to record, yes?”

“Correct.”

“Good.”

“You’ve finally come to visit.”

Harald hugs his grandmother, kisses her cheek, and sits beside her. Rose flies to her and nuzzles her cheek.

“Hello, Rose,” she says.

Rose flies to the window.

“So,” she says, “you’re looking for a bride.”

He nods and explains.

“I see,” she says. “The reality show style is to get her attention.”

“Yes,” he says.

Eva nods, smiling to herself. If he only knew his bride has been in the palace for years.

“I believe it will work,” she says. “She knows she’s your rightful bride.”

Rose flies to Harald, curling up in his lap. She lays her head in his shoulder, burying her face in his shirt.

“Are you going to sleep?” he asks.

She nods, closing her eyes.

“In any case,” Grandmother says, “I would have loved to be involved in this plan.”

He smiles.

“I know,” he says. “I’m sorry. It was very last minute.”

“I can still be involved,” she says. “I had a lady’s maid play the announcement. I think you’ll gather a lot of interest. The least I can do is keep an eye on Rose for you during the day. It’s best if she remains away from the cameras.”

“Thank you, Grandmother. I would appreciate that very much.” He shifts Rose. “I’d rather keep her from prying eyes.”

“Lady Elena is welcome to come with her.”

He nods.

“I already warned her there would be a lot of people in the palace,” he says.

“Will they meet her?” she says.

“I’m not sure yet. It’ll depend on the vibe.” He pauses. “I’ll prepare her for staying with you while I find Alice.”

“I’m sure she’ll be alright.”

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I’m currently posting a first draft of a story. However, if you’re interested in seeing what my final products look like, check out my debut, Daughter of Death. It’s available in many retailers, including Apple, Barnes & Noble, and Kobo in eBook and audiobook formats. It’s also available in my shop.

I’ll leave you for now. Make sure to come back for the next chapter.