CHAPTER 9
King Raelor paced back and forth in his chambers, his brows furrowed in deep thought. The tension between his kingdom and the neighbouring empire had gone on long enough, and peace had become a luxury he could no longer ignore. After hours of consideration, he finally settled on a decision he believed would benefit both kingdoms.
An arranged marriage.
Not just for Princess Emily…but also for Prince Kira.
A small, hopeful smile tugged at the king's lips. Although he trusted his son's cold, distant nature and his ability to resist emotions—even love—he still prayed that Emily would not become Kira's first love. King Raelor feared the curse more than anything, but he also needed stronger political alliances.
But above all, he was certain of one thing:
Kira would never fall in love.
Not with Emily. Not with anyone.
Satisfied with his plan, he sat down and called a guard.
"Send for Prince Kira."
"Yes, Your Majesty."
Minutes later, Kira entered the chamber, expression unreadable as always.
"You called for me, Father?"
"Yes." King Raelor stood up. "I have decided to proceed with an arranged marriage between our family and the neighbouring kingdom. Princess Emily will be engaged to you."
Kira's eyes darkened instantly.
"No," he said firmly. "I refuse."
King Raelor expected this. He sighed patiently. "This alliance is important for the stability of our kingdom, Kira. I know you do not love her—"
"I feel nothing for her," Kira interrupted coldly. "I have seen her countless times. She means nothing to me."
The king nodded. "Exactly. That is why it is safe."
But Kira wasn't listening anymore. His thoughts drifted—uninvited—toward Helena. The girl he had been trying so desperately to push away. The girl who confused him, provoked him, and stirred something he wasn't supposed to feel.
Something dangerous.
Something forbidden.
He clenched his jaw.
Maybe…
Just maybe this arranged marriage could serve a purpose.
Not for his father.
Not for politics.
But for himself.
If he was bound to Princess Emily, perhaps whatever strange pull he felt toward Helena would disappear. Maybe his attention would finally shift.
Maybe he could stay in control.
After a long silence, Kira finally spoke.
"…Fine."
King Raelor blinked in surprise. "You accept?"
Kira nodded once. "Yes. Proceed with the arrangements."
He turned to leave, his voice low and unreadable.
"This has nothing to do with love. I am simply…handling a distraction."
King Raelor didn't fully understand his son's words, but he was relieved nonetheless.
As Kira walked out of the chamber, one thing was clear:
He wasn't agreeing for duty.
He was agreeing…
to escape the one girl he shouldn't be thinking about.