Total pages in book: 95
Estimated words: 91049 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 455(@200wpm)___ 364(@250wpm)___ 303(@300wpm)
Estimated words: 91049 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 455(@200wpm)___ 364(@250wpm)___ 303(@300wpm)
“I didn’t know he went to this length. I—I can’t believe he went this far. I just…” she trails off and shakes her head.
“Why? Can you explain this to me?”
She swallows thickly and nods her head. “My brother was what you call a purist. He believed that the bloodlines should remain untainted. It wasn’t about color, if that’s what you are thinking.”
“Your uncle had affections for Queen Nia. Had she not been promised to King Alvin he would have been happy to suit her. It was Princess Beverly’s choice to marry the American that he was against.”
My mother pauses to take my handkerchief and wipe at her tears. I reclaim my seat and wait for her to continue. Taking a deep breath, she looks me in the eyes.
“When we chose Princess Cinder for you, he was furious. She wasn’t a full-blooded princess. He saw her father as beneath us. I thought he let it go after your father told him our decision was final.
“Your father was furious at first, he wanted the merger of the two kingdoms. It was his hope to grow Verlez and Fru Fru Palms together. He saw a great opportunity with all of the connected land and potential,” she says and gives me a warm smile.
“Your father was much like you in his younger years. He wanted to bring Verlez into the future. He was so discouraged when that young girl ran off. He felt as if our traditions may have been as antiquated as the lands and the kingdom had become.”
“How so?”
“Why do you think your father is so lenient with you? Have you ever wondered why he agrees to the changes you suggest so easily? Your father is no weak king. Yet he bends so easily for you.”
“It’s because he sees himself in you. You reflect all of the changes he once dreamed of. Your father hasn’t wanted to force your hand into marriage. He had hoped you would find love in your quest for the lost princess.”
I take in my mother’s words. It all adds up. I have so many gaps that are starting to fill in.
“This wasn’t right,” I murmur.
“No, it was not. If your uncle were alive, I would take him to task for this. My heart hurts for all the lives he changed with his menacing actions. However, we can only move forward from here,” she replies.
“How?”
“It’s time to tell her who she is. You can’t continue to keep her in the dark about this. Her parents have done that enough.
“I understand you all have done this for her safety for one reason or another, but this will not go over well for you if you don’t tell her soon,” my mother says.
I rub the back of my neck. She hasn’t told a lie. I have to tell Cinder soon. However, I don’t know what that will mean for us.
“You love her,” my mother says more as a statement, not a question, when I don’t say a word. “I can see it in your eyes. You’re in love.”
“I believe I am.”
My mother clasps her hands together. “I knew it. We’ll change the plans for the ball. It will be your engagement party. You will make the official announcement of her return then.”
“Slow down, Mother. I have to tell Cinder first.”
“Yes, yes, you must tell her. I’m so pleased. You’re going to make a handsome groom and what an exquisite bride your princess will make,” she sings.
“One step at a time, Mother.” I chuckle.
“Oh, I’m so excited. I’ve waited for years to be able to plan your wedding. Oh, and grandchildren. I’ll finally have grandchildren!”
“Williams, I believe my mother has truly gotten beside herself. Please inform the families that I will not be looking for a bride. It’s no use stringing anyone along any further.”
“I will get right to it, Your Highness.”
“Also, will you inform Cinder in the morning that I’ve taken a trip? I’d like to have dinner with her tomorrow evening,” I say as my mind races.
“Travel? Tomorrow evening?” my mother questions.
“Yes, I’ll be making a trip to find an engagement ring.”
“Silly boy, I have the perfect ring for you. You will only need to size it,” Mother says with a grin.
My chest swells with pride. My grandmother’s ring. Yes, it will be perfect for Cinder. It was always meant to be hers.
“Then I’ll be off to have it sized. It’s imperative that I leave right away. There are a few other things I want to take care of in London before tomorrow evening,” I say and stand. “Would you like to accompany me to London?”
“Oh, yes, let me get a few things and the ring,” she says excitedly.
My own excitement burns through me. I want to make this trip quick so I can return to my future. I will tell Cinder everything and then I’ll propose.