Valerie's POV:
I sat still, letting Mira comb my hair with gentle strokes. It was an irony; I was always the one helping Mira get ready. But today, Mira was taking care of me, preparing me for my trip to Selonia with Prince Nova. As she finished, I stood up and slipped into jeans and a cropped off-shoulder dress.
Mira insisted on adding a touch of makeup, highlighting my features with skill. I watched in the mirror as she worked, our eyes meeting in reflection. Her expression was serene, no hint of resentment or jealousy.
I felt a pang of guilt nonetheless, worried that she might still harbor feelings for Prince Nova. But Mira had reassured me yesterday that she would get over it. She'd apologized for her earlier behavior and given her blessing for me to be with Prince Nova. Even claimed she'd be upset if I didn't take this chance.
She had surprisingly been the one to tell Prince Nova that I'd always dreamed of visiting Selonia. Now, it seemed, that dream was becoming reality. Mira handed me a lip gloss. "Perfect," she said, stepping back.
I hugged her tightly, whispering, "Thank you." Mira's support meant everything. She squeezed me back.
I grabbed my duffel bag, and Mira walked with me to the Palace entrance. Prince Nova and Prince Cadoc waited, exchanging quiet conversation. Prince Nova's face lit up with a bright smile as he saw me. I returned it.
After brief pleasantries, it was time to leave. "Ready?" Prince Nova asked.
"Yes," I replied. We'd woken up early to avoid detection, that was my reason but prince Nova's reason was wanting to arrive in Selonia early.
Mira hugged me one last time. "Be happy, Val," she whispered.
I nodded, tears pricking. Prince Nova offered his arm. Let's do this.
A sleek black car whisked us to the airport and we boarded a luxurious private jet, settling into plush leather seats. I couldn't believe I was in a private jet! But as the plane taxied, my nerves spiked.
Prince Nova noticed. "Is this your first time on a plane?" he asked.
I clutched the armrest, avoiding his gaze. "You think?" I replied.
He chuckled. "Are you scared?"
I nodded, my knuckles white.
He took my hand, his touch warm. "I'm here," he said softly. The plane lifted off, and he didn't let go once.
After a while, we landed, and a car picked us up. It was already mid morning. As we drove through the rolling countryside, I gasped in awe. Cottage-core houses, lush green forests and vibrant wild flowers stretched as far as the eyes could see. It really was a marvel. The air smelled like flowers and fresh breath.
We stopped at a cozy cafe, its warm atmosphere inviting. Inside, the cafe was quiet, with only a handful of patrons. However, the manager's eyes widened as he recognized Prince Nova.
"Your Highness," he said with a bow.
Prince Nova smiled. "I'd prefer to keep our visit private, thank you."
The manager nodded, ensuring our anonymity. After eating, prince Nova led me to a vast, sun-drenched field. Tall, golden wheat swayed gently in the breeze, reaching waist-high.
"Wow," I breathed, my hair and clothes billowing in the wind.
Prince Nova smiled. "It's beautiful right?"
I nodded. He pulled out a camera and started snapping shots. I posed, laughing, as he captured every moment.
We rode horses - my first time, played in the grass, and picnicked by a serene lake. Hours passed in blissful haze. As the sun began to set, we settled beside the water. Prince Nova laid his head on my lap, his eyes closing. I stroked his hair, feeling peaceful.
"This is nice," I whispered.
He hummed, his voice vibrating through me. Moments passed in comfortable silence. Then, he spoke. "Come to think of it, Valerie... you've never said you liked me out loud."
My eyes widened, and I looked away.
He sat up, his gaze searching. "Do you like me, Valerie?"
I stood up slowly and narrowed my eyes at him. He rose too, his expression uncertain. I clutched his collar, pulling him down to my level, our eyes locked.
"I like you, Prince Nova," I whispered, "more than you even think." With that, I pressed my lips to meet his in a tender, passionate kiss. Time stood still. All that existed was us. Prince Nova's arms wrapped around me, deepening the kiss and the world melted away.
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As I stepped into the cozy hotel room, I couldn't help but feel a sense of tranquility. The quaint cottage-style resort was exactly what I needed to unwind. After dinner, I had retired to my room, catching up with Mira over the phone before indulging in a relaxing bath. The two-day trip was a much-needed escape, and I was determined to make the most of it.
Slipping into my comfortable pyjamas, I heard a knock at the door. My heart skipped a beat as I smiled, knowing exactly who it was. I opened the door to find Prince Nova standing before me, his freshly showered scent filling the air. His handsome features were accentuated by the soft light, making my pulse race.
"May I come in?" he asked in a low voice.
I nodded, feeling a flutter in my chest as he entered. The air thickened with tension as we sat on the bed together, the silence between us palpable. I couldn't explain why I felt nervous; everything about this moment felt natural, yet my heart raced and my hands trembled slightly. It was as if my body anticipated something, but my mind couldn't quite grasp what.
After a while, Prince Nova stood, his back to me, his stance rigid. "I'll leave you to rest now," he said, his voice strained. But I couldn't let him go. My hand reached out, grasping his. He turned, his eyes darkening as our gazes met.
"Stay... please," I whispered, biting my lip.
He paused, then intertwined his fingers with mine, pulling me close. His mouth claimed mine in a fierce, hungry kiss, unlike the tender moments we'd shared before. I gasped, struggling to keep pace.
I clutched his shirt tightly, my senses overwhelmed. This wasn't the Prince Nova I thought I knew but then again, he was a man too.
He didn't break the kiss, as he guided me backwards onto the bed. He finally broke the kiss as he gently laid me on the bed, his gaze never leaving mine. I lay there, breathless, my heart racing. Deep down, I knew this moment was inevitable, but fear still lingered, making my pulse flutter.
His hands went beside my head, and he towered over me, his face inches from mine. His eyes were burning with desire. He leaned in, and I closed my eyes, anticipating his lips. But instead of kissing me, he trailed his mouth along my jaw, sending shivers down my spine. His lips danced across my neck, and I gasped.
"Wait," I whispered, my voice trembling.
Prince Nova immediately stopped, his eyes searching mine. I saw concern etched on his face.
"I'm sorry, I'm not ready," I confessed, feeling a mix of relief and guilt.
"I'm sorry," He replied, his voice soft.
"It's alright," I reassured him, smiling weakly. We sat up on the bed together, the tension dissipating. Prince Nova's eyes locked onto mine.
"When will you be ready?" he asked half teasingly half serious.
I cocked my head, a mischievous grin spreading across my face. "Hmmm, in two years maybe."
Prince Nova sighed. Then smiled and nodded. "I'll wait." I grinned. "Good night, then," he said, standing.
I nodded, following him to the door. As he left, I turned to head back to bed but suddenly changed my mind. I rushed back to the door, opening it to find prince Nova standing there, his eyes locked onto mine.
For a moment, we just stared at each other. Then, he leaned in, his lips brushing against mine. I smiled slowly, letting him kiss me.
The next day, Prince Nova and I embarked on a thrilling mountain hike. The crisp air and breathtaking views invigorated us as we trekked upward, our laughter and conversation flowing effortlessly. We joked and played, our previous night's tension forgotten.
As the day drew to a close, Prince Nova mentioned he had plans for us that night.
I wore a stunning sequined wine-red dress, my hair in a sleek bun, and subtle makeup. When prince Nova arrived to pick me up, his eyes widened.
"Valerie, you... wow." He stumbled over his words, his compliment awkward yet sincere.
I blushed, smiling. "Thank you." In the car, I asked, "Where are we going?"
Prince Nova's grin hinted at a secret. "You'll see."
We stopped at a stadium-like structure. As we entered, I realized it was a concert venue! Echoes in the Dark, my favorite band, was about to perform.
I turned to prince Nova, shocked. "How did you...?"
He chuckled, his eyes sparkling. "I knew you've always wanted to see Echoes in the Dark live. When I heard they were hosting a concert here, I had to bring you." Running his hand through his neck, he added, "Initially, I planned a private concert, but after the amusement park, I sensed you felt uncomfortable with the exclusivity. So, I opted for a public concert instead."
Tears welled up in my eyes as I hugged him tightly. "Thank you, prince Nova."
He squeezed me back, offering his hand. "Shall we?"
We blended into the crowd, prince Nova wearing a cap to maintain anonymity. The darkness and casual attire made him almost unrecognizable. It reminded me of the first time we encountered. I smiled at the thought.
As the concert began, we sang along with the crowd, lost in the music. We laughed, danced, and screamed lyrics together. It was one of the most unforgettable nights of my life.
After the concert, Prince Nova and I headed backstage to meet Echoes in the Dark. I felt nervous, but with prince Nova by my side, I pushed it down.
When we arrived, the band members bowed their heads to Prince Nova. He waved it off. The band looked at me curiously and nodded. I nodded back, feeling weird and nervous.
I took a moment to study them. Max Well was taller than I imagined, with dark hair and striking features. Then my gaze shifted to the rest of the band. Sarah Chen had dyed orange hair and was tall. Her brother, Mike Chen, had matching orange hair and an air of mystery. Chris Martin looked nice and approachable.
Prince Nova put his hand around my shoulder and looked at Max pointedly. "This is my girlfriend, Valerie Alaric. She's a huge fan of yours."
I blushed and looked down. "Nice to meet you."
Max grinned and took my hand, pressing his lips to it. "The pleasure's ours."
I felt like melting. Not in a million years would I have thought I'd be backstage with Echoes in the Dark, surrounded by the people whose music had been my constant companion.
Prince Nova drew me closer, staring at Max weirdly. I realized he was jealous. I chuckled and mouthed at him, "There's nothing."
He smiled and released me. The other band members greeted me with hugs. We took their autographs and took some pictures with them. Prince Nova effortlessly chatted with the band, his familiarity with them evident. It was clear he'd met them countless times before.
Sarah Chen pulled me aside. "What a pretty thing you are," she whispered.
I blushed, feeling a mix of shyness and surprise. "Thank you."
"So, tell me, how did you manage to pull the crowned prince?" Sarah asked curiously.
"It's kind of a funny story... he found me when I wasn't searching." I said with a hint of a smile.
She cooed, "Wow, you're so lucky."
But I didn't feel lucky. Yes, I was in a relationship with Prince Nova, and I liked him, but doubts lingered. What would people think? What would they say? Would his family accept me? Those thoughts had haunted me since our trip began.
I confided in Sarah, my voice barely above a whisper. "It's just... I'm not really famous or rich or from a well-known family. I just don't know if we will last. I'm just scared of what people will say." I knew I wasn't really close with Sarah, but it felt nice to share my fears with someone who barely knew me. There was no judgment, no preconceived notions.
Sarah's expression softened. "That might be true, Valerie, but maybe it doesn't matter. Maybe you shouldn't let your life be defined by others' expectations. Look at me â I'm the only girl in the band, and I get hate comments, but do I care? I don't. So you shouldn't either. I'm living my life, and you should too."
I cocked my head to the side, mulling over her advice. Slowly, a grin spread across my face. "I'm lucky, then."
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