Chapter 9

The sun was high in the sky, casting a golden hue over the bustling streets of Vireli as Alex and Max strolled through the marketplace. The vibrant energy of the city surrounded them, with merchants calling out their wares and children darting between the stalls, laughter echoing through the air.

Max had become accustomed to the casual way Alex moved through the crowd, nodding to villagers, shaking hands, and even stopping to help a woman pick up a basket of apples she’d dropped. It was so... normal.

In Ashbourne, royalty moved with a degree of separation, an untouchable aura that kept commoners at a respectful distance.

Alex was the opposite.

As they paused near a fruit vendor, a voice called out. “Prince Alexandros!”

They turned to see a man approaching—a farmer by the look of his sun-weathered skin and simple tunic. He had a broad smile and a straw hat in hand.

“Arran,” Alex greeted warmly, clasping the man’s arm. “How are you?”

“Well enough, Your Highness,” Arran replied, his smile growing wider. “I didn’t expect to see you here. What an honor! And who is this fine gentleman with you?”

“This is Prince Maximilian of Ashbourne,” Alex introduced, stepping aside so Max was in view.

Arran’s eyes lit up. “A pleasure, Your Highness.” He gave a deep bow, and Max nodded in acknowledgment, though he couldn’t help but wonder where this interaction was leading.

“I hope I’m not overstepping,” Arran continued, “but it’s nearly lunchtime. If you’d honor my family with your presence, we’d be thrilled to share a meal with you both.”

Max’s brows shot up. This was... unorthodox. Royals didn’t just accept casual invitations like this. It wasn’t done. Yet, before he could voice his surprise, Alex smiled and said, “Of course. Thank you for the invitation.”

Max stared at him, incredulous. “You can’t be serious.”

Alex leaned closer, grinning mischievously. “Why not? It’s polite, and I’ve eaten at Arran’s house before. The food is excellent.”

“That’s not the point,” Max hissed. “We’re royalty. You don’t just—”

“Relax,” Alex interrupted, clapping him on the shoulder. “It’ll be fine.”

Max sighed, resigned. He followed Alex and Arran through a side street that led to a modest house on the edge of the city. Chickens roamed freely in the yard, and the smell of fresh bread wafted from the open windows.

As they approached, a woman stepped out, wiping her hands on her apron. “Arran! You didn’t tell me we’d have guests,” she scolded gently, though her face lit up when she saw Alex.

“Prince Alexandros!” she exclaimed, dipping into a quick curtsy.

“Hello, Nia,” Alex said, stepping forward to kiss her cheek. “It’s good to see you.”

Her gaze turning to Max. “Welcome to our humble home, Your Highness.”

Max inclined his head, feeling slightly out of place but touched by her warmth.

Inside, the house was cozy and filled with the sounds of life—a baby’s gurgles from a cradle in the corner, the rhythmic chopping of vegetables, and the low murmur of conversation. Arran’s two older children, a boy and a girl, peeked around the corner, their wide eyes fixed on the two princes.

“Come on out,” Alex called gently, crouching down. “I don’t bite.”

The boy giggled and ran to Alex, throwing his arms around his neck. Alex hugged him tightly, ruffling his hair. “You’ve grown, little man.”

“I’m seven now!” the boy announced proudly.

“Seven? Already? You’ll be taller than me soon,” Alex teased.

Max watched the exchange, something tightening in his chest. The way Alex interacted with the family—so natural, so unguarded—was unlike anything he’d ever seen. In Ashbourne, royalty were revered but distant, their lives separate from the common folk. Here, Alex blurred the line completely, and the affection he received in return was genuine.

“Please, sit,” Nia said, gesturing to a wooden table laden with steaming dishes.

They sat together, the table crowded but warm. Max felt awkward at first, unsure how to navigate this informality, but the family’s kindness was disarming.

As they passed around plates of roasted vegetables, fresh bread, and hearty stew, Alex laughed and chatted as if he were one of them. The children were particularly enamored with him, competing for his attention as he pretended to guess riddles and listened to their stories.

At one point, the boy tugged on Alex’s sleeve. “Can you come to my birthday next month?”

“I’ll try,” Alex promised, though his tone was tinged with regret. “If I can’t, I’ll send you something special.”

“You always do,” the boy said with a grin.

Max couldn’t help but smile at the scene. Despite his initial reservations, he found himself relaxing, even laughing at some of the children’s antics.

“Prince Maximilian,” Nia said, drawing his attention. “We’re honored to have you here. It means so much to my husband and me that you’d take the time to visit.”

“The honor is mine,” Max replied, surprising himself with the sincerity in his voice.

As the meal wound down, the baby began fussing, and Alex took the opportunity to hold her, bouncing her gently until she quieted. Max watched him, utterly captivated.

“You’re staring,” Alex murmured later as they walked back toward the palace, the sun casting long shadows across the streets.

“Am I?” Max asked, feigning ignorance.

Alex smirked. “You were. Care to explain?”

Max hesitated, then said simply, “You’re... different.”

“Different how?”

Max searched for the right words. “You’re not what I expected. You’re kind. And not because you have to be, but because you want to be. It’s... admirable.”

Alex’s expression softened, and he stopped walking, turning to face Max. “Thank you,” he said quietly.

They stood there for a moment, the city bustling around them, and Max felt an unfamiliar warmth spreading through him.

“Come on,” Alex said finally, his voice lighter. “Let’s see what else we can find.”

Max followed, his steps a little lighter than before.

The sun dipped low on the horizon, painting the sky in hues of orange and pink as the final day of Max’s stay in Vireli drew to a close. The hours had passed too quickly for his liking, the bittersweet weight of departure settling in his chest like a stone.

He stood on the balcony of Alex’s chambers, gazing out over the sprawling palace gardens. The air was warm, carrying the faint scent of blooming flowers, but it did little to ease the turmoil inside him.

Alex stepped out quietly, his presence grounding Max in the moment. He leaned against the railing beside him, their shoulders nearly touching.

“You’ve been quiet all day,” Alex said softly.

Max sighed, his fingers tightening around the edge of the railing. “I don’t want to go back to Ashbourne.”

Alex glanced at him, waiting for him to continue.

“I know it’s my duty,” Max said, his voice low. “But it feels like I’m walking back into a cage. The people there... they don’t understand me. They want a prince who’s easy to control, someone who never speaks out of turn, someone who fits their perfect little mold. That’s not me. It never has been.”

Alex’s expression softened. “Max...”

“I feel free here,” Max admitted, his gaze fixed on the horizon. “With you. With the people. It’s different. It’s... right.”

Alex reached out, placing a reassuring hand on Max’s forearm. “I understand. But you’re stronger than you think. You don’t need to change for anyone, not even for Ashbourne.”

Max turned to face him, a sad smile tugging at his lips. “Easier said than done.”

Alex hesitated, then said gently, “You’ll come back, you know.”

Max raised an eyebrow. “You sound very certain of that.”

“Of course,” Alex replied, his tone teasing but warm. “You’ll come back because you belong here, with me.” He paused, then added without thinking, “Darling.”

The word slipped out so naturally that Alex didn’t realize he’d said it until Max’s eyes widened slightly, his cheeks tinged with a faint blush. Alex froze, his own face heating.

“I—sorry,” Alex stammered. “I didn’t mean—”

“No,” Max interrupted quickly, his voice almost a whisper. “Don’t stop.”

Alex blinked, caught off guard. “What?”

“When you say it,” Max said, looking down at the ground for a moment before meeting Alex’s gaze again, “it feels... nice. Like it’s meant to be.”

Alex smiled, his usual composure returning. “Alright, darling.”

The endearment rolled off his tongue easily, this time deliberate, and Max felt his heart race. Alex lifted a hand to Max’s cheek, his thumb brushing against the faint stubble there. The touch was tender, grounding, and electrifying all at once.

Their eyes locked, the space between them shrinking as the air grew charged with unspoken emotions. Neither needed to say anything; they both knew what was about to happen. Slowly, Alex leaned in, and Max met him halfway.

The kiss was soft, unhurried, a melding of two people who had found something unexpected but undeniably real. Max’s hand came up to Alex’s waist, pulling him closer as the kiss deepened, passion simmering beneath the surface but never boiling over.

When they finally parted, their breaths mingling in the stillness, Alex’s hand remained on Max’s cheek. His blue eyes searched Max’s face, as if memorizing every detail.

“We’re stepping into a new territory now,” Alex murmured, his voice steady despite the rapid thrum of his heart. “This isn’t the end, Max. It’s just six months. After that, you’ll be back. And when you are, you’ll be here to stay. You’ll be mine.”

Max couldn’t stop the smile that spread across his face, despite the ache in his chest. “Yours?”

Alex nodded. “Completely.”

Max inhaled deeply, his eyes tracing Alex’s features—the soft curve of his lips, the slight freckle near his temple, the determined set of his jaw. He thought about how this man, shorter by two inches and exuding an almost boyish charm, had managed to unravel him in ways no one else ever had.

As the hours ticked away, Max found himself reflecting on the past weeks. Every laugh, every shared meal, every quiet moment spent together—Alex had shown him a world where he didn’t need to hide or change. A world where he was seen, wholly and completely.

Max knew the separation would be painful, but Alex’s promise echoed in his mind, steady and unyielding. Just six months.

Letter One: From Alex to Max

My Dearest Max,

The days here in Vireli are a whirlwind of excitement and preparations. It seems the entire palace is buzzing with activity—servants running to and fro, decorators working tirelessly to ensure everything is perfect. While I know our wedding will be held in Ashbourne, my people insist on making my departure an event worthy of the occasion.

The royal carriage is nearly ready. It’s a masterpiece, crafted by the finest artisans, adorned with intricate gold filigree and deep blue velvet—my kingdom’s colors. They say it’s the most beautiful carriage ever made, though I find it hard to care when all I truly want is to be with you.

I’ve also begun my lessons on Ashbourne’s traditions, especially those surrounding the wedding. It’s quite a task, learning the subtleties of your customs, but I want to get everything right. You deserve nothing less.

I hope everything is going smoothly on your end. Are you as excited as I am? Or perhaps a little nervous? I find myself feeling both at once, though any fear is outweighed by the thought of finally being by your side, not just as your lover but as your husband.

Write to me soon, darling. These letters are my solace in the chaos.

Yours always,

Alex

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Letter Two: From Max to Alex

Alex, my love,

Your letter arrived this morning, and it’s already the highlight of my day. I read it twice, imagining your voice with every word. The thought of you in your royal carriage, leaving Vireli to come to Ashbourne, fills me with so many emotions. It’s a mixture of joy, excitement, and a touch of fear. What if something isn’t perfect? What if the palace here isn’t grand enough to match you?

The preparations are in full swing. My days are filled with endless grooming sessions—steamed baths, herbal treatments, facials. They want me to look “radiant,” as they say, though I can’t help but laugh at the absurdity of it. I know you’d love me even if I showed up unkempt and covered in mud.

The tailors have brought in fabrics from across the kingdoms for my wedding attire. They argue constantly over which colors suit me best. I’ve decided on deep emerald green with gold embroidery—our shared colors, as a symbol of unity.

My mother insists on overseeing every detail. She’s determined to make this event perfect, saying it’s what my father would have wanted. I can see her joy in the preparations, though I know she hides the pain of his absence. He would’ve loved you, Alex. I’m certain of it.

Yours,

Max

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Letter Three: From Alex to Max

My Darling Max,

It seems we are both swept up in the grand machinery of tradition. Reading about your preparations makes me smile. Emerald and gold will suit you perfectly; I can already imagine how breathtaking you’ll look. I’ll be the envy of everyone in Ashbourne.

Here, the palace gardens are being transformed into a sea of flowers for my send-off ceremony. Every bloom is meticulously chosen, representing blessings for our marriage—love, prosperity, loyalty. It’s beautiful, but I can’t help feeling that all these grand gestures pale in comparison to simply being with you.

I understand the weight of your father’s absence during this time. My heart aches knowing he isn’t here to see how remarkable you’ve become or to witness the joy you bring me. But I believe he would be proud of the man you are and the life we’re about to build together.

The dowry from Vireli is nearly ready. My advisors have gone all out—priceless art, precious stones, and even a small library of rare books for you. I insisted on including personal touches: a painting I commissioned of the lake where we first kissed and a ring crafted from the gemstone of my family’s crest.

Forever yours,

Alex

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Letter Four: From Max to Alex

My Alex,

I received your letter just before my final fitting. Reading it made my heart ache with longing, though it also gave me peace. The thought of you commissioning a painting of our lake and including a ring so meaningful leaves me speechless. You always know how to make me feel loved.

The palace here is alive with preparations. My mother has been incredible, taking charge of so much. I know she’s doing it to keep herself busy, to distract from missing my father, but I also know she’s pouring her heart into making sure everything is perfect for us. She keeps saying, “Your father would have been so proud of you.”

The people of Ashbourne are thrilled, though I think they’re more excited to see you than me. You’ve charmed them already with your letters and stories.

I’ve begun practicing the traditional Ashbourne vows. They’re beautiful but long, and I’m certain I’ll stumble on a word or two. If I do, promise you won’t laugh. Or if you do, let it be because you find me endearing.

I think about you constantly, Alex. About us. About the life we’re about to start together. It’s overwhelming in the best way.

All my love,

Max

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Letter Five: From Alex to Max

My Sweet Max,

This will be my last letter before I leave for Ashbourne. By the time you read this, I’ll likely be on my way to you, counting down the hours until I can hold you again.

Everything is ready. The carriage, the gifts, my attire. I’ve even mastered the formal bow I must give to your family upon my arrival, though I suspect they’ll see right through the pomp and know I’m only there for you.

I want you to know how deeply I admire your strength, Max. Navigating the duties of royalty while carrying the memories of your father is no small feat. I wish I could take away the pain of his absence, but I promise to stand beside you, always.

Max, I hope you know how much I love you. These weeks apart have been difficult, but they’ve only solidified my certainty that this—we—are right. I’ve never been more sure of anything in my life.

Soon, we’ll be standing together before the world, promising ourselves to one another. Until then, know that I am thinking of you with every breath.

Yours, now and always,

Alex

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Hey everyone!

I've just posted the first chapter of my new story, "Only His"! Please go check it out and show some love. Let me know your thoughts on the chapter—I’d love to hear your feedback.

A little heads-up: the next chapter will feature the wedding of Alexandros Vireli and Maximilian Ashbourne. Expect some heartfelt moments, vows being exchanged, and all the wedding vibes!

I’m quite busy at the moment, but I’ll be posting the rest of the chapters soon. Stay tuned, and don’t forget to share your thoughts. Your support means a lot!