Golden Apple

Sleep bonnie barn within the castle
Thou shalt have a golden apple
…
Wait, until you take a look inside yourself
Recognize, what is growing there
Oh seeker, oh seeker
A leaf in this garden
Means more than all leaves
You will find

…in paradise.

Timeless Tomes & Treasures, Newcrest

Newcrest, a coveted and scenic suburb of the bustling metropolis of San Myshuno, had become a popular destination for singles, young couples, and families seeking a quieter, more affordable alternative to city life. With its lower square foot prices, abundant green spaces, and a variety of options for residents of all ages, Newcrest offered the perfect balance of suburban tranquility and urban convenience. Its proximity to San Myshuno made it an ideal spot for commuters, combining the best of both worlds.

In the heart of this charming suburb stood Timeless Tomes & Treasures, a cozy second-hand bookshop that hummed with a soft, soothing ambiance. Shelves crammed with well-worn books lined the walls, their spines displaying a rainbow of colors. The aroma of aged paper mixed with the rich scent of freshly brewed coffee filled the air, creating an inviting atmosphere that drew in book lovers from all walks of life.

Outside, the busy main street into Newcrest buzzed with activity. The sound of chatter from nearby cafes and the hum of traffic blended into a comforting symphony of suburban life. Inside the store, several patrons browsed the shelves, lost in their own little worlds of literature. Each visitor was a character in their own story, seeking the next great adventure or escape within the pages of a book.

Behind the counter stood Grace Harper, a 21-year-old with auburn hair, glasses perched on her nose, and a comfortably worn rust colored sweater. She was scribbling some notes, her back to the door. A bell above the entrance tinkled, signaling a new arrival. Grace turned, ready to greet the customer, and her eyes widened in surprise.

“Will?!” she exclaimed, a mix of astonishment and joy lighting up her face.

‘Will’ was actually William Cromwell, the Crown Prince of Henfordshire, an island kingdom located across the ocean and about 7 flight hours away if you took a commercial flight from nearby San Myshuno International Airport. He exuded an air of effortless cool, a casual elegance, dressed in a well-fitted navy-blue button-up shirt with sleeves rolled to his elbows, and slightly distressed dark jeans. His buttery blonde hair was slightly tousled, and a pair of aviator sunglasses hung from the collar of his shirt. Simple light slip-on shoes completed his casual yet sophisticated look. As he approached the counter, a subtle scent of sandalwood, bergamot, leather, and cedar lingered in the air, a refined yet understated fragrance.

“Hello, Grace,” he greeted her with a warm smile, his posh Henfordian accent unmistakable.

“Oh my God, it’s you! You are real, I am not imagining you! Can I hug you?” she asked, already moving around the counter, her excitement palpable.

“Of course,” he replied, opening his arms.

They hugged tightly, a reunion of old friends. Grace’s scent—an earthy, woodsy mix of patchouli, sandalwood, lavender, eucalyptus, and a hint of coconut oil—mingled with his, creating a unique blend. As they pulled away, she noticed the discreet security detail outside the store, ensuring the Prince’s safety without drawing attention.

“I’m really sorry I couldn’t make it to your grandma’s funeral,” William began, his tone sincere. “I was stuck at a royal function in Windenburg and just couldn’t leave. It was the annual aristocratic leadership meeting, which this time was hosted in Tartosa, and for the first time, my father trusted me to attend in his stead, with Victoria by my side to learn as well. There was no way I could have left her alone with all that and getting here and back would take an entire day at least. But you were in my thoughts, and I want to offer my deepest condolences again.”

Grace’s eyes welled up with tears, and she nodded. “Thank you, Will. And thank you for the beautiful wreath and the handwritten card. It meant a lot to me.”

They hugged again, a comforting embrace, before William pulled back and looked around the shop. “This place looks amazing! Much more modern and spacious. Hard woman to track down. Naturally, I went to where this shop used to be—imagine my surprise,” he jested, trying to lighten the mood.

Grace chuckled, wiping away a tear. “Well, I asked the building owners to keep a sign in the window of the old location with this address until it rents out again, and I have several online presences with our new location listed. I don’t know how many more breadcrumbs I could possibly leave. I even kept the name the same. After Grandma’s death, I inherited the store, no real surprise to anyone, but what I did not inherit was the grandfathered rent from the ‘50s. Ownership transfer meant new contracts to be signed at the current rates, and I just couldn’t afford that, so I started a GoFundMe hoping to get enough to at least cover moving costs for all the books. Would you believe it, some incredibly generous anonymous donor gave an outrageously huge sum and left a comment that it was to open a new shop.” She glanced knowingly at William, whose smirk belied his innocent shrug.

“That donor was too kind,” she continued, “and I can never repay them, but I’d definitely like to have them over for dinner as a tiny thank you.”

William chuckled. “I’m sure they’d love that.”

“So, I found San Myshuno not feasible, and then, while scouting for new properties I found this cute spot in the suburb of Newcrest. The donation more than covered the rent for several months, the moving costs, and I had money left to rent an amazing house just around the corner from here, you can actually look out the back windows of my store and see my backyard— it even has a pool and a hot tub! I am in LOVE with that place. I don’t know how I could ever repay you, Will.”

William smiled warmly. “Luckily you don’t have to. Really, I am happy it all worked out this way for you, Gracie.”

“You wanna look around some? I have a few older books that just came in, rare, that you might be interested in.”

“I normally would love to see those, but I’m lucky if my current schedule leaves me time for the required reading for my college classes. But maybe you could advise me on some gifts for my sisters? I’ve been traveling a lot lately and mostly buried in studies trying to catch up when at campus at university. I haven’t been home in a while, judging by their texts and my parents’ hints, it’s time for me to show up again—but I don’t intend to do that with empty hands. Any ideas for an almost 21-year-old dreamer in her first long-distance relationship, who is at uni with me and spends every spare moment she is not on the phone or in a chat with her boyfriend telling me how much she misses him, effectively keeping me from studying, so I usually hide from Vic too, then something an almost 15-year-old tomboy whom my parents can hardly keep off a horse, out of trees and out of mud puddles and in proper attire fit for a princess, and an almost 12-year-old who’s deep in her fairy tale era and would be a princess even if she weren’t?”

Grace smiled thoughtfully, tapping her chin as she considered the options. “Oh, a lot of almosts, sounds like a lot of birthdays looming. Let’s see. For Victoria, how about a beautiful leather-bound journal? She can jot down her thoughts, dreams, and perhaps love letters to her boyfriend. I have a few exquisite ones that she might love, handmade by real artisans who know their art.”

William nodded appreciatively. “That’s a great idea. She’s always been the type to pour her heart onto paper. And I know she doesn’t have any journals with her on campus, as she keeps stealing notebooks from me whenever she visits my dorm.” He winked, smiling.

Grace continued, “Great, there you go. And for Viv, how about a rugged adventure book or a guide on horseback riding Western Style? I have this amazing series that’s perfect for someone who loves the outdoors and horses. Plus, it’s full of tips and tricks for young riders who want to ride like cowboys, unless Jack finally took mercy and taught her.”

William’s eyes lit up. “Oh no, he won’t. Jack absolutely refuses it. I am sure he’s afraid of Mum’s wrath should Vivienne like it better and refuse to ride English style then. Viv would absolutely devour the book. Anything to keep her out of trouble for a while.”

Grace chuckled. “As for little fairy Veronica, I have just the thing. There’s this beautifully illustrated fairy tale collection that would be perfect for her. It’s full of enchanting stories and gorgeous hand drawn artwork. She can escape into her very own fairy tale world. Be a little magical princess. That series is so sweet, I actually read it myself and I am slightly older than the intended audience. Couldn’t put it down.”

William smiled warmly. “Sounds fabulous. You always know exactly what to pick, Grace. Thank you. These will be perfect. I might even be forgiven for my long absences.”

Grace beamed at the compliment, feeling a sense of pride in her selections. “I’m glad I could help. Let me show you where they are.”

She led William to the leather-bound journals, but they were interrupted by a customer asking for assistance. “Excuse me, miss, can you help me find a book on local history and urban development? I am specifically looking for the development of the local water retention systems and structural development,” the customer inquired.

Grace smiled politely. “A challenge. Let’s check over here, in the architecture section. I’ll be just a moment, Will.”

William nodded, waiting patiently as Grace guided the customer to the local history section. Just as she was returning, another customer approached the counter. “Could I get a coffee, please?”

Grace glanced at the coffee machine and noticed it was out. “I’ll need to make a new pot. One moment, please.”

William stepped in, covertly pointing at the line forming by the register. “Allow me. You check out these customers, and I’ll handle the coffee.”

Grace looked at him gratefully. “Thank you, Will. You’re a lifesaver.”

As William busied himself with the coffee machine, Grace rang up the customers at the counter and handed another two creamer packs to a different patron. “Sorry about the wait, but here you go.”

Once the coffee was brewing and the line gone, William returned to Grace, who smiled up at him.

“If they knew who just made their coffee, I swear my shop would be overrun. Thank you. Again. Come over here, I’ll get you hooked up with presents for your sisters.” He followed her, she was showing him the journals and the adventure book series. “These look perfect,” he said, choosing a beautiful journal for Victoria and an adventure book and the illustrated fairy tale series for his younger sisters Vivienne and Veronica.

Grace took the items to the counter and began bagging them up. “These are on the house, the least I could do for all your help.”

William smiled and, as Grace was finishing the bagging, he discreetly placed a few hundred-dollar bills into the change jar with a certain glance, wink, and smile. Grace quickly noticed and fished them out. “That is way too much, Will!” she whispered, trying to slide the large sum back to him.

He placed his hand on hers. “Consider it a donation for a young entrepreneur who I know works hard. Instead of returning the money, invite me to that dinner you mentioned. I don’t mean to be rude by almost inviting myself, but I’m only in town today and then not again for the foreseeable future, due to more obligations. I shouldn’t be here now, but I decided I didn’t want to wait even longer to see you and express my condolences.”

Grace sighed, giving him a defeated look. She jotted down her address on a piece of paper and handed it to him with some general instructions.

“Alright, here it is. Come by at six? I have one employee, still looking to hire more, but she will be here in about an hour, and I can have her close today.”

William nodded, his smile reassuring. “Six it is. Thank you, Gracie.”

They shared a final warm look before William left, the small bell above the door tinkling softly as he exited. Grace watched him leave, a mix of emotions swirling within her.

Rekindling in Newcrest

Grace’s home was a cozy, modern space, filled with personal touches that made it uniquely hers. The walls were adorned with framed book covers and art prints, and the furniture was simple yet stylish. As she opened the door, she smiled warmly at William, who stood on the doorstep with a bouquet of her favorite flowers—sunflowers.

“You remembered,” she said softly, her fingers gently tracing the petals.

“I remember everything, Gracie Lou,” William replied, his tone just as gentle. Gracie Lou was a nickname William often used for Grace, a term of endearment that had always brought a smile to her face.

They hugged again, the embrace filled with unspoken emotions. As Grace was about to shut the door, she noticed the discreet security detail outside.

“Do they want to come in too? I made enough pasta,” she offered with a chuckle.

William smiled and shook his head. “They’ll be fine. Besides, I think they prefer their own company.”

He turned back to the room, his eyes taking in the surroundings with a mix of curiosity and appreciation. Grace led him through the house, pointing out various features and personal touches. When they reached the bedroom, an awkward silence fell between them, memories of their past bubbling to the surface.

“Uh, yeah, well, and this is the bedroom,” Grace said, her voice a little strained.

“Yes, I almost guessed it,” he retorted, smiling.

William nodded, his eyes lingering on the room for a moment before he turned back to her. “It’s lovely, Grace. You’ve done a magnificent job. Even if I hadn’t known, I would have instantly recognized this as your home.”

They moved back to the kitchen, where Grace served a vegan pasta dish. William tried hard not to laugh as she explained the ingredients, recalling his parents’ disdain for her vegan choices, and what they whimsically termed “the rabbit’s daily luncheon.”

“This is exquisite,” William remarked, clearly impressed as he savored each bite.

“Thanks,” Grace replied, smiling. “I’m glad you like it.”

After dinner, William helped clear the table. Grace teased him, “Is this your first time doing this? Should I get the camera out to record this historical moment?”

He laughed. “No, have you forgotten, I’ve helped you before, at your grandma’s apartment. And you must have forgotten about my Grandma Vivien and Aunt Adrianna. They would never let me get away with not helping. Ever since I was a boy, I’ve had to pitch in just like the rest of the non-royal cousins. One of those cousins, Ryan, is currently my roommate at college and I can vouch that he’s very diligent about his dishes.”

They shared a few memories, including Ryan and his outgoing and outspoken nature. William added some college anecdotes with Grace, both laughing at those, when he got more serious.

“I don’t mean to pry, but during the lovely tour you gave me of your home, I noticed many photos of family and friends, including the one of us. However, I couldn’t help but notice the absence of photos of someone special.”

Grace knew what he was asking. She shrugged and shook her head. “Yeah, that’s because there isn’t one. Even after being the benchwarmer all throughout school, it turns out nobody’s really interested in a nerdy bookworm, even as adults.”

William tilted his head slightly, genuine curiosity in his eyes. “What about the young man you mentioned last time we spoke? The one who shares your passion for saving the environment?”

Grace looked at him puzzled, then laughed. “Oh, you mean the made-up boyfriend to make my ex jealous with? That guy? Yeah, he would probably be fine, if he ever existed.”

William chuckled, shaking his head in amusement. “Really? Am I that terrible that you would have to resort to such nonsense?” He admired her disarming honesty; a trait he had always valued in her.

Grace sighed, rolling her eyes. “You’re NOT terrible, THAT is the problem. If you were, I wouldn’t even care. Speaking of, where is your fiancée?”

William’s expression softened slightly. “Mina is back on campus. Last we spoke, she was buried in papers due.”

Grace raised an eyebrow, a hint of curiosity in her voice. “So that is still a thing? You are still a thing then?”

William nodded, his tone refined and distinctly Henfordian and royal. “I am afraid so. Maybe I could make some introductions with eligible young bachelors who are smart enough to appreciate the wonderful and brilliant person that you are?”

Grace shook her head, laughing lightly. “Oh no thanks. I am not THAT desperate for a boyfriend that I would need my ex to pawn me off to some other benchwarmers. Plus, anyone you know would be either filthy rich and famous or aristocracy and seriously Will, that was rough enough when we were dating. I am still not that type. Still just the hippie treehugger chick whom most people overlook even at second and third glance. Still nothing special, and I am very much aware of that fact and totally cool with it. The only thing that ever made me even remotely special was you. Thanks though.”

William’s eyes, a mesmerizing shade of very light green, softened with genuine affection. “You are wrong, Grace. I wish you could see yourself through my eyes. You are incredibly special and beautiful, and you don’t need anyone else to validate that.”

Grace’s knees felt weak as she gazed into those captivating eyes, the sincerity in his voice making her heart flutter. She felt a warmth spread through her, a mix of surprise and delight at his words.

They exchanged looks that spoke volumes. The atmosphere was charged with unspoken emotions and memories. Grace’s cheeks flushed a delicate pink as she suggested, “How about some pool time?”

“Sounds delightful, but unfortunately, I didn’t bring any swim trunks,” William replied, a playful glint in his eye, his voice carrying that refined, royal tone that always made her heart skip a beat.

Grace grinned, her eyes sparkling with mischief. “Do you really need those? Not to be too forward, but if it makes a difference, you’ve got nothing I haven’t seen before. And hey, so has most of the world—I still have those news articles with shots of your royal rear end around here somewhere from back when we were 17 after my prom.”

They both laughed, the sound echoing through the room, but the laughter soon faded as they found themselves staring at each other. The moment stretched, filled with tension and unspoken words. Slowly, they leaned in, and their lips met in a tender, lingering kiss.

The kiss was filled with years of unresolved feelings and shared history. As they pulled away, the air between them was charged with a mix of emotions. They stood there, staring into each other’s eyes, the connection undeniable. Grace’s heart pounded in her chest, her breath coming in shallow gasps.

Grace broke the silence first, her voice barely above a whisper. “William, …”

He placed a finger gently on her lips, silencing her. “I know, but I can’t help how I feel,” he murmured, his voice low and filled with longing.

They leaned in again, their lips meeting in a more passionate kiss. The tension between them melted away as they gave in to their feelings, the years of longing and unresolved emotions finally finding release. The kiss deepened, becoming more urgent, more desperate.

William’s hands moved to cradle Grace’s face, his touch gentle yet possessive. She wrapped her arms around his neck, pulling him closer, her fingers tangling in his hair. The kiss deepened, and Grace subtly guided him toward the stairs, an unspoken understanding between them. They ascended the steps, each one bringing them closer to her bedroom. The world outside seemed to vanish, leaving only the two of them and the intensity of their shared moment.

They found themselves in her bedroom, the air thick with anticipation. They fell into bed together, their movements a blend of urgency and tenderness. Clothes were shed, and they explored each other with a familiarity that came from years of shared history and deep emotional connection. The night unfolded in a series of whispered words, stolen kisses, and tender caresses, each touch igniting a fire that had long been smoldering.

Later, they lay tangled in each other’s arms, the room bathed in the soft glow of the moonlight streaming through the window. Grace’s fingers gently played with William’s hair, her touch soft and tender. “It feels exactly how it looks it would,” she murmured, a hint of wonder in her voice. “Buttery soft.”

She continued to twirl a lock of his hair around her finger, her eyes drifting to his face. As she gazed into his eyes, she felt a rush of emotion. “I had almost forgotten how unusual and beautiful your eyes are, so light and green, like crystals. Like seaglass.”

William smiled softly, his heart swelling with the sincerity of her words. He loved how Grace always managed to see him, not just as the prince, but as the man behind the title. Grace’s admiration made him feel cherished and understood in a way that he hadn’t felt in a long time. Her gentle touch and heartfelt words created a moment of pure connection, one that he knew he would carry with him long after this night was over.

“I’ve missed this,” Grace whispered, her voice filled with longing. She hesitated before adding, “And I’ve missed you, Will, more than you know, my sweet Gracie Lou.”

William’s eyes softened even more as he gazed into hers, his fingers gently tracing the contours of her face. “I’ve missed you too, Grace,” he murmured, his voice filled with a mix of sadness and contentment. “More than I have words to express.”

Grace’s fingers gently traced the lines of his face, her touch tender and lingering. “But we both know this doesn’t change anything,” she said softly, her eyes reflecting the bittersweet reality of their situation.

He sighed, nodding. “I know. But for tonight, let’s just be in the moment. I only have a few more hours before I have to leave.”

They snuggled up in each other’s arms, the warmth of their connection a temporary balm for their souls. William’s hand moved to caress her back, drawing comforting patterns as he held her close. Grace’s head rested on his chest, listening to the steady rhythm of his heartbeat. Their breaths synchronized, and for a brief moment, it felt like they were the only two people in the world.

Their eyes met again, and the intensity of their gaze spoke volumes. William gently brushed a strand of hair away from Grace’s face, his touch lingering. She responded by pressing a soft kiss to his chest, her lips barely grazing his skin. They lay there, wrapped in each other’s arms, the silence filled with unspoken emotions and the weight of their shared history.

The time for departure came way too soon. William dressed quietly, trying not to disturb Grace, who had fallen asleep. He couldn’t help but watch her for a moment as she slept, a peaceful expression on her face. His heart ached with a mixture of love and regret. He knew that what they had shared would stay with him forever, but also that it couldn’t last.

Unable to resist the urge to capture the moment, William quietly took out his phone and snapped a photo of the sleeping Grace. It wasn’t a decision made lightly; it was his way of holding onto a piece of this night, a memory of their brief reunion. He knew it was something he would cherish, even if it remained hidden from the world.

He left a note on the bedside table, a heartfelt message thanking her for the evening and expressing his hope that they would always remain close, no matter where life took them. He gently brushed a strand of hair from her face, his touch lingering for a moment before he leaned down and placed a soft, careful kiss on her forehead. He lingered for a moment, savoring the warmth of her skin and the peacefulness of the moment, before he turned to leave.

Less than an hour later, William sat in the window seat of the royal jet, the creamy and elegant interior a stark contrast to the whirlwind of emotions swirling in his mind. He watched the clouds roll by, his thoughts racing like a rollercoaster. The evening with Grace had been unexpected, yet it felt like a piece of his life had fallen back into place. He couldn’t help but wonder what the future held for them and whether their paths would cross again in a way that would allow them to explore the connection they had rekindled.

His mind drifted to Mina, and a pang of guilt struck him. He knew he had to address his feelings and the complexities of his relationships when he returned. But for now, he allowed himself to linger in the bittersweet memory of his night with Grace, a moment that would forever remain etched in his heart. He closed his eyes, replaying the tender moments they had shared, the way her touch had felt, and the sound of her laughter.

As the jet soared through the sky, William’s thoughts remained with Grace. He knew that their time together had been fleeting, but it had also been profoundly meaningful. He resolved to cherish the memory of their night together, even as he faced the challenges and responsibilities that awaited him back home.

Cromwell Palace, Henfordshire

Nestled in the rolling hills of Henfordshire, Cromwell Palace stood as a testament to centuries of history and tradition. The early spring air was crisp and fresh, carrying the scent of blooming flowers and newly awakened earth. The palace grounds were a tapestry of lush greenery, dotted with vibrant bursts of color from the gardens meticulously tended to by the royal horticulturists. Down the hill, past a small stream with several stone bridges leading across, lay the royal stables. These stables were immense and exquisitely maintained, housing several dozens of the finest horses, most of them white and bred by the royals themselves, as they have been for centuries. Some horses grazed outside in large fenced pastures, while others were being trained in paddocks. The stunning scenery surrounding it all added a sense of serenity and timeless elegance to the palace’s regal presence.

Inside, the grandeur of the palace was softened by the warmth of the season. The tall windows of the royal study allowed the soft, golden light of the evening to filter through, casting a gentle glow on the elegant furnishings and rich tapestries that adorned the room. It was a space that exuded a sense of history and tradition, much like the man who occupied it.

William stepped into his father’s royal study, the plush carpet muffling his footsteps. A guard closed the door quietly behind him, ensuring their privacy.

“Father, a word?” William’s voice was steady, but the urgency behind it was unmistakable.

Maximilian, the king, looked up from his desk, where he had been perusing documents. His face lit up with surprise and delight. “William! Come in, my boy! I hadn’t realized we were expecting you home! Must be age catching up with me. Come, come, sit, and tell me all about university. I trust all is well? Shall I ring for refreshments?”

William managed a small smile, moving to sit in one of the plush chairs opposite his father. “No thanks, Papa, and you didn’t forget; I am not supposed to be home. I’m here because I have something important to discuss with you, and I didn’t want to wait until later, especially with Mum’s birthday coming up in a few weeks. Speaking of, where is Mum? Sir Reginald informed me that she wasn’t home when I arrived.” Sir Reginald had been the king’s personal advisor even before William was born.

Maximilian’s expression shifted slightly, a shadow of concern crossing his face. “Your mother is busying herself with preparations for her nephew’s wedding, which is still several months away. She has gone to meet her best friend, the groom’s mother Bianca, to see the florist. I am not quite certain why the queen must do Jake’s bidding, for he has two parents and a sister, not to mention his lovely fiancée Claire, all of whom should be well-capable of selecting flowers for the wedding of one of their dear ones, but I will assume it is probably more a girl helping her best friend with things requiring a feminine touch than in her royal capacity. Am I to understand that your unexpected visit implies bad news?”

William hesitated, his eyes reflecting the turmoil within. “No, not bad. Not really bad anyway. Well, truth be told, not good either. I am not certain, Papa.”

Maximilian leaned forward, his eyes filled with concern and a father’s unwavering support. “Go on, son.”

William took a deep breath, gathering his thoughts. “It’s about Grace. You know her grandmother recently passed, and … well, I ran into her, and… spending time with her again brought back a lot of feelings. Feelings I thought I had moved past, but clearly haven’t.”

The king’s brow furrowed slightly, listening intently, his posture attentive. “Ran into her? William, my boy, please don’t take me for a fool. By no stretch of chance or twist of fate would you cross paths with her unless it was deliberate.”

William nodded, his expression earnest. “Alright, Papa. Yes, I added a stop to the recent trip to go see her. She lost the location in San Myshuno but is now in Newcrest. I was curious to see the new shop. It was meant as a brief visit, mostly to extend my condolences. However, seeing her again made me realise I’ve never really stopped caring. Our breakup never had anything to do with feelings for each other, but circumstances. We reconnected, and it felt like no time had passed. I know I’m engaged to Mina, and I care deeply about her too. I most certainly don’t want to hurt her, but I can’t ignore what I feel for Grace. It’s making me question everything. I am here to seek your counsel and fatherly advice.”

Maximilian remained silent for a moment, his expression thoughtful and contemplative. “When you say reconnected, what exactly am I to imagine here?” he began, his tone gentle and understanding, but also probing.

William’s eyes softened as he recalled the moments spent with Grace. “Well, we talked a lot, and it felt like old times. She’s still the same amazing person, and it made me realise how deep my feelings for her are,” he said, trying to choose his words carefully.

Maximilian raised an eyebrow. “Deep feelings, you say? How can you be so certain, William? I know you are still very young, but also a grown adult and there is no place in your life for silly fleeting crushes like a hormonal teen boy. You are not that; you are a future king, you have responsibilities and a duty to your kingdom not to mention your engagement to Princess Wilhelmina.”

William sighed, frustrated. “Papa, it’s more than just a fleeting feeling. It’s like… it’s like everything fell into place when I was with her.”

Maximilian leaned back in his chair, his skepticism evident. “You’re speaking in riddles, William. Feelings alone cannot dictate your actions, especially given your position. Are you sure this isn’t just nostalgia playing tricks on you?”

William’s frustration grew. “No, it’s not just nostalgia. It’s real. We spent the evening together, and it was… it was special.”

Maximilian’s eyes narrowed slightly. “How special, William?”

William shifted uncomfortably in his seat. “We talked a lot, reminisced about old times. It felt like we picked up right where we left off.”

Maximilian’s gaze remained steady. “And?”

“And we… we reconnected on a deeper level,” William said, trying to evade the direct question.

Maximilian’s patience was wearing thin. “William, I need you to be clear. What do you mean by ‘reconnected on a deeper level’?”

William’s heart pounded in his chest. “We shared a lot of personal things, emotions… it was intense.”

Maximilian’s eyes bore into his son’s. “Intense how? Did you kiss her?”

William hesitated, feeling cornered. “Yes, we kissed.”

Maximilian’s expression hardened. “And then?”

William’s voice wavered. “And then… things escalated.”

Maximilian’s tone grew sharper. “Escalated how, William? I need you to be honest with me.”

Feeling the pressure mounting, William blurted out, “Fine! We slept together. There, is that what you wanted to hear? Honest enough?!”

The room fell silent, the air thick with tension. Maximilian’s face went pale, a mix of shock and disappointment crossing his features. He stood up abruptly, his back turned to his son as he rubbed his forehead in a desperate gesture. William stood too, his heart pounding.

“William,” Maximilian began, turning back to face his son, his voice stern and controlled, “you are too old for such foolish choices. You are a grown man, young perhaps, but an adult regardless. And not just any adult—a future king. Your actions have consequences, and you should always be aware of that fact. You cannot fall prey to the carnal urges of a young man!”

Maximilian’s voice grew louder, his frustration evident. “Do you understand the gravity of what you’ve done? This isn’t just about you and Grace. This is about the future of our family, our kingdom. You cannot afford to be so reckless!”

William’s face flushed with a mix of shame and defiance. “I know, Papa. I know I messed up. But my feelings for Grace are real. I can’t just turn them off.”

Maximilian’s eyes blazed with anger. “Real or not, you have a duty to Mina, to this family, and to the kingdom. What’s done is done; it can’t be erased now, but you will not see Grace ever again. You will sever all ties with her immediately. Do you understand me?”

William’s fists clenched at his sides, his voice trembling with emotion. “I can’t do that, Papa. I can’t just walk away from her like this. My feelings for her are real, and they’re not going away. You of all people should understand this!”

The argument escalated, father and son standing their ground, both unwilling to yield. The tension in the room was palpable, the weight of the moment pressing heavily on them both.

Maximilian’s eyes flashed with anger. “Oh, I understand enough, son! I have let it slide when I noticed larger sums being diverted and clearly spent to help Grace. I turned a blind eye, thinking it was merely an act of kindness towards an old friend. But being a generous donor to a previous lover and deliberately cheating on Mina are two very different things and the latter absolutely unacceptable. Evil minds could even twist this into a version where you kept her as a concubine, paid for her favors. Is that the kind of king you wish to become one day, one who keeps a wife and lovers? Paid ones at that?! Unbelievable!”

William could only stare at his father in light of his unusually harsh reaction, so the king continued to voice his anger.

“Then what did you think I would say when confronted with this…debacle? Did you really think I would tell you to break the engagement to a lovely young lady your mother, your sisters, and I consider already part of the family—one of proper rank, as while I myself married a commoner, your mother and I would attest that it is not easy –who has stood by your side faithfully for almost four years now—for a fling with a bookshop girl from Newcrest?! If you did, my son, then you are not the young man I watched you grow into and clearly, you do not know me at all!”

William felt a rush of guilt and defensiveness. “What?! Of course not! That is not at all what I wanted! I don’t know what to do, Papa, which is why I came here, to get help, advice, counsel and guidance as I am on my wit’s end. All I know is that Grace isn’t like that, and neither am I! Papa, I know it was wrong, but I can’t pretend it didn’t happen. I can’t just pretend Grace never existed. I may be a future king, born into a royal life and prepped for it since birth but I am also only human, bound to make mistakes!”

Maximilian’s voice rose, filled with authority. “On the contrary, son. You can and you will. You will not see Grace ever again. You will sever all ties with her immediately. Your duty to Mina, to this family, and to the kingdom comes first. We are both only human, we both made mistakes and will make more, but there is a distinct difference between what I would consider a mistake and what you did is not such. Not unless she drugged you and took advantage of you.”

William clenched his fists, his voice trembling with emotion. “Stop, Papa, please! I can’t do that, Papa. I can’t just walk away from her like this. I know what I did was shameful, I knew it when I was doing it, but my feelings for her are real, and they’re not going away. You of all people should understand this!”

Maximilian’s eyes hardened, his voice unyielding. “William, you are no longer a boy guided solely by emotions. You are a man and a future king. You must rise above your personal desires.”

William’s frustration boiled over, his eyes flashing with anger and desperation. “I love her, Papa! It’s not just a fling or a fleeting feeling. You don’t understand!”

Maximilian stepped closer, his face stern. “You think I don’t understand love? I understand it better than you know. But love does not give you the right to make reckless choices that jeopardize everything you hold dear. Have you forgotten your duty?”

William’s voice cracked with the weight of his emotions. “Duty? What about my heart? Am I just supposed to bury my feelings for the sake of appearances?”

Maximilian’s tone softened slightly but remained resolute. “William, you must think of the greater good. Your personal feelings cannot come before your responsibilities. You must make a choice, and I trust you will choose wisely. I know you feel you have the right to judge me for my own past mistakes, but the situation your mother and I eventually navigated through together was an entirely different one, not comparable and nobody cheated on anyone. You have, which is unacceptable, and while I am not going to expose my own son by revealing that to anyone, I think maybe you should, but only after you took a long hard look at the realities of it all. You have something beautiful, something lasting with Mina, there is no use throwing it all away on the idea of a dream built on sandy ground, something that could never last. You said it yourself many times how unhappy Grace was here at the castle. She doesn’t want this life and you cannot live in her world. You had to before, when you were little, and you and your sister abhorred it. Please try to remember that.”

“I know that! Don’t you think I fucking know that?!” William’s eyes grew wide, startled by his own harsh words; he never cursed. He blushed, fighting his emotions, his shoulders sagging under the weight of the decision pressing down on him. “I apologise, Papa. I… I… I didn’t mean to be vulgar. But I don’t know what to do, Papa. I really don’t. This is tearing me apart.”

Maximilian placed a reassuring hand on his son’s shoulder. “Take some time to think it through. But remember, the choices you make now will shape not only your future but the future of this kingdom. Mina is a wonderful young lady, and breaking her heart is not something she would ever forgive you for, and I wager neither would her father or brother. Know what you are doing before falling into disfavor with the King of Windenburg. Alexander and Mina might not be as close as you and Victoria, but close enough for him to hold a grudge for a very long time, perhaps forever.”

Just then, the door to the royal study opened, and William’s mother, Aria Grace, entered. Poised and elegant in a green dress with a deep V-neckline, her light green eyes sparkled with surprise at the sight of her son. Her chestnut brown hair framed her face, highlighting her graceful and beautiful features. “William! What a pleasant surprise!” she exclaimed, but her smile quickly faded as she sensed the tension in the room. “What is going on here?”

Maximilian and William exchanged a glance, the weight of the moment hanging heavily between them. King Maximilian, with his hazel blue eyes that Aria Grace always described as ‘the color of the deepest oceans,’ dressed in a dark blazer over a patterned sweater and a collared shirt, sighed, deciding to be honest. His blonde hair, much like William’s, was beginning to show streaks of grey. “Aria Grace, queen of my heart, our son and I were discussing a rather serious matter. William has found himself in a difficult situation, and we are trying to navigate it.”

Aria Grace’s eyes widened with concern as she looked between her husband and son. “What kind of situation?”

William took a deep breath, feeling the pressure of his parents’ expectations. “Mum, it’s about Grace. I… I made a mistake, and now I’m trying to figure out what to do.”

Aria Grace’s expression softened with understanding, but also with worry. “Oh, William. What happened?”

Maximilian stepped in, his voice firm but gentle. “William reconnected with Grace, and things went further than they should have. We are trying to determine the best course of action.”

Aria Grace wasn’t born yesterday and quickly grasped what this probably meant. With a concerned look on her face, she approached her son, who now towered over her at 21, and pulled him into a tight embrace. William melted into her arms, allowing her to gently stroke his hair. Overwhelmed, he began to cry into her shoulder, much to Max’s shock. His and his wife’s eyes met, and she shook her head, mouthing “I’ll handle this” to him. He took the hint and left the room.

When the door shut, William pulled away from his mother’s shoulder, covertly trying to wipe his eyes while avoiding looking at her, but she pulled him closer and used her handkerchief to dry his tears.

“William, honey, I am your mother. You will have to be king one day and act like it even now, for the public, but not for me. You are my little boy and you will always be my little boy. I can see you are hurting. You know what you did wasn’t right. I am not going to chastise you even more; we all make mistakes. But I need you to find a way to calm yourself enough to think clearly about the reality of it, not dreams. God knows we all have dreams. And by the time you reach my age, you will have had to bury some of those dreams, which is something neither your father nor I can protect you or your sisters from. I once thought I would never get over losing Rohan. I never thought I could be friends with him after everything, but losing him brought me your father, and while you know he and I had our own demons to conquer, we did, and here we are. And then there’s Jack, another chapter in my life bridging past and present. Love is wonderful, but never easy and rarely smooth. Especially not if it’s real.”

“What do I do, Mum? I am so confused.”

“I cannot tell you that, honey. You already know the repercussions of both choices. You know how you feel. The choice has to be yours.”

“Is it possible to love two women equally, Mummy?”

Aria Grace sighed, her heart aching for her son. “Love is complicated, William. Sometimes it feels like our hearts are big enough to love more than one person deeply. But in the end, you have to choose which path will bring you true happiness and fulfillment, not just in the moment, but in the long run.”

***

The following morning, William found solace in the stables, seeking the comfort of his favorite horse, Imperial, affectionately known as “Perri.” Perri, a purebred Cromweller, was a majestic stallion with a fleabitten grey coat that gleamed bright white under the soft morning light. The Cromweller breed, coveted for centuries by the royal house of Cromwell, was renowned for its excellence in riding and sports. Perri stood tall and proud, his strong, muscular frame a testament to the meticulous breeding and care he had received.

William gently stroked Perri’s neck, feeling a sense of calm wash over him. The horse’s large, expressive eyes seemed to understand his rider’s turmoil, offering silent comfort. William mounted the horse with ease, the familiarity of the motion bringing a small measure of peace. Perri responded to his touch, their bond apparent in the fluidity of their movements as they rode out of the stable and into the open fields.

William, clad in his riding gear, cut a striking figure against the backdrop of the sprawling landscape of Henforshire. His buttery blonde hair caught the morning light, and his steady hands guided Perri with practiced ease. The wind rustled through his hair as he urged Perri forward, the horse’s powerful strides carrying them across the kingdom’s rolling hills.

As they reached a hilltop overlooking the vast expanse of the kingdom, William pulled Perri to a halt. The stallion stood still, sensing the gravity of the moment. William gazed across his kingdom, the weight of his future pressing heavily on his shoulders. The choices he faced seemed insurmountable, yet he knew he had to find the strength within himself to navigate the path ahead.

The sun rose higher in the sky, casting a golden glow over the fields, as if offering a silent promise of hope and clarity. William’s thoughts were a tumultuous sea of emotions, the words of his parents echoing in his mind. As he looked out over the land he was destined to rule, a fateful determination settled in his heart.

Whatever decision he made, William knew it would shape not only his life but the future of Henforshire. With a deep breath, he steeled himself for the journey ahead, ready to face whatever challenges came his way. For in the end, it was not just his heart that he had to follow, but his destiny as a leader, a prince, and one day, a king.