Valerie's POV:
I slipped on the sea green dress prince Nova had given me yesterday, feeling the soft fabric hug my curves. The floor-length gown sparkled in the light, and I couldn't help but feel like a princess. I curled my hair and applied light makeup, satisfied with my reflection.
I headed to Mira's room, knocking softly. Bellamy was busy styling Mira's hair, so I waited patiently. We were headed to the National Museum of Calonia for a fundraiser event, and Mira was excited to see the museum she would soon direct.
When Mira was ready, we left together, walking towards the courtyard. She gazed at me admiringly. "You look stunning in that dress, did you buy it?"
I panicked, not wanting to reveal the truth. "It was a gift from a friend."
Mira raised an eyebrow. "Who?"
I smiled mischievously. "I'll tell you later."
Mira pouted, but her smile betrayed her curiosity. "Not fair!"
We stepped outside, where two expensive-looking cars awaited us. Prince Nova stood with prince Cadoc in front of one, dressed in a sleek suit, his faint bruises a stark contrast to his bright smile. I wondered how he got the bruises.
Mira approached the princes, and they exchanged pleasantries. "Your Highnesses, you both look dashing tonight."
Prince Nova bowed. "Thank you, Mira. You don't look bad yourself and Valerie, I must say, you wear that dress beautifully."
He emphasized the dress, but I ignored it and just thanked him politely.
Prince Cadoc chuckled. "Indeed, they both look lovely, I'm sure Mira will make a wonderful director. We're all eager to see your vision come to life."
Mira beamed. "Thank you, your Highnesses. I'm honored to have your support."
I remained quiet, observing the exchange. It was finally time to leave, and Mira and I entered one car, while the princes and their bodyguards took the other.
We arrived at the museum sooner than expected, and I gazed up at the stunning structure. The front of the museum was a masterpiece of architecture, with grand stairs leading up to the entrance, flanked by towering pillars that seemed to stretch up to the sky. The building's facade was a beautiful blend of modern and classical designs, with intricate carvings and sleek glass panels.
As we stepped out of the car, Mira's parents, Mr. and Mrs. Weldon, awaited us at the foot of the stairs, beaming with pride.
"Welcome, dear ones!" Mrs. Weldon exclaimed, opening her arms to embrace Mira and me. "And welcome, Prince Nova and Prince Cadoc! It's an honor to have you both here tonight."
Mr. Weldon nodded in agreement, shaking hands with the princes. "Indeed. Shall we go in? The evening awaits!"
They ushered us into the museum's grand lobby, which took my breath away. The high ceiling seemed to disappear into darkness, and the walls were adorned with magnificent artworks that seemed to glow in the soft light. The floor was polished marble, reflecting the colors of the artworks like a mirror.
Mira's parents led us to a door on the side, which opened into a cozy reception room. The room was lined with comfortable chairs, the air was filled with the sweet scent of flowers and people were already seated. We took our seats, and soon, the event began.
Mrs. Weldon took the stage, her voice echoing through the room. "Welcome, everyone, to this special evening at the National Museum of Calonia! I'm thrilled to introduce our guest of honor, Prince Nova, and his brother, Prince Cadoc. And, of course, my daughter Mira, who will soon take the reins as our new director."
The audience applauded, and Mrs. Weldon continued, "Tonight, we gather to support the arts and celebrate the museum's mission. Let's begin our auction, shall we?"
The auction was a whirlwind of excitement, with prices soaring higher than I ever imagined. After an hour, it finally concluded, and Prince Cadoc took the stage to play the violin. His music was enchanting, and I couldn't help but stare, mesmerized by his skilled fingers dancing on the strings. It reminded me of the first time I saw him play.
When he finished, I applauded loudly, along with the rest of the audience. Mira's father suggested we all head out to explore the museum's artworks, and the group began to move towards the exit. Mira and Prince Nova were ushered to the front, surrounded by admirers, while Prince Cadoc was engaged in conversation with a group of people. I found myself alone, so I decided to linger at the back of the group.
As we made our way through the museum, I gazed in awe at the incredible artworks on display. There were paintings that seemed to come alive, sculptures that appeared to move in the light, and installations that defied explanation. I felt like a small part of me was awakening, and I couldn't help but stare, my heart filled with wonder.
As I wandered through the museum, one painting caught my eye, and I stood transfixed, my heels sinking into the carpet. The painting was a stunning depiction of a lotus flower rising from a pond's surface, its petals pure and white, despite the surrounding muddy waters. The artist's use of color and light was breathtaking, with the lotus seeming to glow from within.
"Ah, you've found the star of the show," a voice said behind me.
I turned to see Prince Cadoc standing there, holding two glasses of wine. He smiled and offered me one.
I took the glass, and we both gazed up at the painting. "It's incredible," I breathed. "The way the lotus seems to shine through the murkiness."
Prince Cadoc nodded. "Yes, it's a masterpiece. Did you know it was painted by a famous artist who was inspired by the lotus's symbolism in our culture?"
I shook my head, fascinated. "No, I didn't. Tell me more."
He launched into a captivating explanation of the painting's history and the artist's vision, and I listened, entranced. When he finished, he turned to me with a thoughtful expression.
"The lotus flower reminds me of you, Valerie," he said, his eyes sparkling.
I was taken aback. "How so?"
He smiled. "Well, do you know how the lotus flower survives in muddy waters?"
I shook my head, curious.
He grinned. "By clearing the water and making it clear and pure. That's you, Valerie. I know you'll strive to do the right thing, no matter what challenges come your way."
My cheeks flushed, and I wondered how he could see me in that light.
Prince Cadoc sipped his wine, his eyes never leaving mine. "Regardless of what Alex is doing to you, I know you'll come out stronger. He's not a bad person, just battling his ego. We were all friends once, but he...he thought Nova didn't care about him anymore since he was the crowned prince."
"Why would he think that?" I asked.
He replied, "That's Alex for you but he might act tough but he is actually really soft." I wondered how Lord Alex could actually be soft but my mind strayed to him apologizing yesterday.
"How did you know Alex was involved with me?" I asked, curiosity getting the better of me.
Prince Cadoc smiled teasingly. "I'm smart, Valerie."
I raised an eyebrow, playfully skeptical. "That's all you're going to say?"
He chuckled. "Regardless, I'm grateful to you, Val, for making both Nova and Alex interact again, even though it's not on good notes. You've sparked something, and I hope it leads to a positive outcome."
I wondered what he meant, but his enigmatic smile hinted at a deeper understanding, leaving me both intrigued and grateful for his kind words.
Then he offered me his arm. "Shall I show you more of the museum's treasures, my lady?"
I smiled. "Of course, kind sir."
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Mira's POV:
I sighed, feeling miserable. It was that time of the month again, and I was paying the price. After a light breakfast in bed, I told Bellamy she could leave, despite her worried expression. "I'll manage," I assured her, trying to sound convincing.
But as soon as she left, I collapsed back into bed, the pain becoming unbearable. I reluctantly took the pills Bellamy had given me earlier and lay back, waiting for them to take effect.
Just as I was starting to drift off, I heard a knock at the door. "Come in," I called out weakly.
Prince Cadoc entered, his face etched with concern. I tried to smile, but it came out twisted. He rushed to my side and sat beside me, taking my hand in his. "Are you alright? Bellamy told me you weren't feeling well when I asked her why you didn't come down for breakfast."
I appreciated his concern, despite my embarrassment. "I'm fine, just...indisposed," I said, trying to downplay it. "You know, the usual...female troubles."
Prince Cadoc's face flushed slightly, but he nodded understandingly. "I'll be back," he said, squeezing my hand before leaving me to rest.
I closed my eyes and willed the pain to subside.
Shortly after, Prince Cadoc returned with a large shopping bag. The pain had subsided, but I still felt a lingering discomfort. He sat beside me on the bed, setting down the bag and revealing its contents: sanitary napkins, pain relievers, heating pads, warm compresses, chocolates and a few other things I didn't even recognize.
I looked at him in surprise, touched by his thoughtfulness. He gazed up at me, his eyes shining with a hint of shyness. "I didn't know which ones you usually used, so I got everything," he admitted.
My heart swelled with gratitude. "Thank you so much, Prince Cadoc," I said, my voice sincere.
He smiled and took my hand, his thumb massaging my palm in gentle circles. "I've heard this can help with cramps," he said, his touch soothing and calming. As he worked his magic, my tension melted away, and I felt my eyes growing heavy.
I smiled up at him, feeling a deep appreciation for his kindness. He let go of my hand and took the other one, repeating the gentle massage. Then, he moved to my feet, expertly massaging them until I felt like I was melting into the bed.
As I drifted off to sleep, I wondered if Prince Cadoc had always been this thoughtful and caring. His actions showed a depth of character that I was grateful to experience firsthand.
Valerie's POV:
I was lost in thought, cleaning Princess Evie's room, when I felt someone behind me. I knew without a doubt it was Prince Nova, his scent unmistakable. Suddenly, a locket appeared in front of me. His hands wound around my head, clutching the necklace. I felt his warm breath on my neck as he spoke, "This is yours."
The locket was exquisite, with intricate engravings and a delicate chain.
He helped me put it on, his fingers brushing against my skin. "Don't ever take it off," he whispered, his voice sending shivers down my spine. As I turned to face him, he stood close, his smile radiant. "I'm going to Nordania tomorrow."
My eyes widened, and I felt a pang of sadness. "When will you be back?"
"In two weeks, for the annual Unity Festival," he replied. I nodded, trying to hide my feelings. He stepped closer, his voice low. "Don't miss me too much, okay?"
I stared at him, then blurted out, "I'll be back." I turned away, my heart racing.
After a few minutes, I returned to Princess Evie's room, scarf in hand. I hesitated at the door, then entered. Prince Nova still stood there, looking confused. I avoided eye contact, mumbling, "I know it's not winter, but...I thought I'd give you this." I handed the scarf to him.
For a moment he looked stunned then he smiled and enveloped me in a warm hug, his arms wrapping around me like a gentle embrace. I felt his heart beat against mine, his scent filling my senses.
"Thank you, I'll wear it everywhere, I promise," he said, his voice filled with gratitude.
I smiled. He hugged me again, then turned to leave. At the door, he looked back, his smile radiant. "I'll be back soon, okay?"
I nodded, then he was gone, leaving me with the memory of his warm embrace and the locket's gentle weight around my neck.
Mira's POV:
I hastened down the hall in the east wing, my heart racing with every step. I had to catch him before he left! Suddenly, I saw him, and my pace quickened. "Your Highness, I heard you were going somewhere?" I asked, worry etched on my face.
Prince Nova smiled. "I'm going to Nordania for a project, Mira. I'll be back in two weeks."
My heart sank at the thought of him leaving. I forced a smile and said, "I hope you go and come back safely."
He thanked me and turned to leave. I watched him go, my eyes fixed on the scarf clutched in his hand. Where had I seen that scarf before? I pushed the thought aside and began to walk away.
Just then, I almost collided with Xander. "Miss Mira, I was just coming to meet you," he said, out of breath and looking urgent.
"What's wrong, Xander?" I asked, furrowing my brow.
He took a deep breath. "My prom is tomorrow, and I want you to be my date."
My eyes widened in shock. "What? Xander, I...I can't. I'm not even a student here, and besides, I'm not prepared for something like that."
Xander's face fell, and he looked crestfallen. "I'm sorry for asking. I know it's last-minute, but I really need someone to go with."
I felt a pang of guilt at his desperation. "Xander, I...I need to think about it. Can I give you an answer later?"
He nodded and hurriedly left. I watched him go, wondering why he was so urgent. My curiosity and worry got the better of me, and I decided to follow him, staying close behind. What was going on? Was he in trouble or something?
I trailed him to the elevator in the east wing. He met up with a short, broad-shouldered boy with salty blond hair. I ducked behind the stairs, listening in on their conversation.
"Where's the girlfriend you were talking about?" the boy asked, a hint of mockery in his voice.
Xander looked down, his voice barely audible. "I lied."
The boy grinned wickedly. "I was right after all. No girl wants to date you. You're going to the prom alone."
Xander's eyes flashed with defiance, but his voice was laced with sadness. "I won't go to the prom."
The boy sneered. "You don't have a choice. Your reputation will be ruined even more if you don't come."
Xander's shoulders slumped, his eyes cast downward. He looked utterly defeated. The boy's words were laced with venom, and I could sense Xander's pain.
"I really pity you," the boy said, his voice dripping with condescension. "I'd rather be a girl than be a man like you. You're pathetic."
Xander's eyes flashed with anger, but he remained silent. I couldn't take it anymore. I stepped out from behind the stairs, my voice firm. "Hey."
The boys looked at me, confusion etched on their faces. The blond boy's grin faltered, and Xander's eyes locked onto mine.
I walked over to him and stood beside him, asking, "Are you okay?"
He nodded, his eyes still cast downward.
I slung my arm around his shoulder, trying to ignore the significant height difference. Xander tensed, but I held firm, looking straight at the blond boy with a smile. "I'm Xander's girlfriend."
The boy's eyes widened in shock, and Xander's head jerked up, his eyes mirroring the boy's disbelief.
"That's impossible," the boy sputtered. "You don't even look like an highschool student. How did Xander pull off a beautiful girl like you?"
I chuckled. "I am an highschool student, I just look bigger than my age, that's all." The boy raised an eyebrow, unconvinced. I leaned in closer to Xander, my arm tightening around his shoulder. "You don't have to believe me, but you'll definitely see me tomorrow at the prom, by Xander's side."
The boy's grin returned, and he turned to Xander. "You're such a lucky guy, I wish I was you."
With a nod, he said, "See you then, tomorrow. Bye, Xander, and the lovely lady." He winked at me, and I rolled my eyes, smiling.
Xander turned to me when the boy was gone. "Miss Mira..."
I smiled. "It's okay."
He shook his head. "You didn't have to pretend to be my girlfriend. I'm sorry you got dragged into this."
I squeezed his shoulder. "That's the thing, I didn't have to, but I couldn't stop myself. I had to help you."
Xander's face flushed, and he looked down. "Thank you, Miss Mira."
I smiled softly. "You're welcome, but do they bully you that much?"
He sighed, his shoulders slumping. "They never hit me, but the words they say...it hurts." My heart went out to him, and I squeezed his shoulder again. "Everyone has a girlfriend, you see, and I'm the only one left out. That's why they say all this," he explained, his voice barely above a whisper.
I frowned. "What's wrong with you not having a girlfriend? And besides, have you complained to the teachers?"
Xander shook his head, his eyes downcast.
I decided then and there that I had to help him. "I will help you report, Xander."
He quickly shook his head. "Please don't, Miss Mira."
I raised an eyebrow. "I have to. After tomorrow, they'll find out I'm not your girlfriend. What will happen then?"
Xander's eyes locked onto mine, determination in their depths. "I'll take care of it."
I raised an eyebrow, skeptical. "How?"
He hesitated, then shrugged. "I don't know, but I'll try."
I couldn't say anything after that, my mind racing with thoughts of how I could help Xander.
______
I waited patiently and nervously for the night to arrive. When the time finally came, I slipped on an asymmetrical gown that was strapless on one side, letting my hair fall over my shoulders. I applied light makeup to look younger than I was, relying on my height to fool anyone into thinking I was a student. After a final check in the mirror, I headed out and found Xander waiting at my door, looking dashing in a suit with his hair styled perfectly. He smiled nervously and complimented, "You look beautiful, Miss Mira."
I grinned. "I have to look the part, right?"
Xander chuckled and offered his arm. "Shall we?"
I nodded, and we walked together, using a secret passageway to avoid drawing attention. A car waited outside, and Xander opened the door for me. I slid in, and he followed, his leg brushing against mine. We spent the 30-minute drive to the school going over our plan, rehearsing our roles as a couple. I couldn't help but feel a little awkward, having never been in a relationship before. But Xander's gentle guidance put me at ease, and I found myself laughing and relaxing in his presence.
As we arrived at the school, my nerves returned. This was it â our chance to fool everyone into thinking we were a couple. I took a deep breath, and Xander's hand found mine, his fingers intertwining with mine in a gentle squeeze. I looked up at him, and he smiled reassuringly. Together, we stepped out of the car and into the night.
We walked into the school gym, and the music and laughter enveloped us. The prom decorations sparkled, and the students mingled, taking photos and enjoying the night. Xander's hand remained intertwined with mine, and we navigated through the crowd, pretending to be a couple.
As we reached the refreshments table, four guys approached us, their eyes wide with surprise.
"I'll be damned, I didn't believe Ryder when he said you had a girlfriend, Xander!" one of them exclaimed.
The blond-haired guy from yesterday chimed in, "I told you, I told you!"
Another friend added, "And she's so pretty!"
Xander smiled, his eyes locked on the guy, and said, "Eyes off my girlfriend, would you?" He tightened his grip on my hand. He said it so convincingly that I almost forgot it was all an act.
The guy who had spoken up raised his palms in defense, "Ease off, bro!"
We spent the rest of the evening chatting, taking photos, and enjoying the party. I let myself get caught up in the moment, forgetting that this was all just a ruse. Xander was always close by, playing the part of the doting boyfriend perfectly.
It had been three years since my own prom, and I was determined to make the most of this night.
As I stood alone for a moment, a group of girls approached me. One of them commented, "You look older than your age."
I replied nervously, "It's in the genes."
They looked unconvinced but complimented my hair, face, and dress. I smiled and thanked them, feeling a bit more at ease.
Then, it was time to dance. Xander came to me, and we slow-danced to the music. His hand rested on the small of my back, and mine on his shoulder. We swayed to the rhythm, our bodies close but not too close.
As we danced, I noticed a girl staring at us from the corner of my eye. She looked sad, and I wondered if she was okay.
After the dance, she approached us, her eyes fixed on Xander. "Xander," she said softly.
He immediately smiled at her and asked, "Trish, how are you?"
She blushed and replied, "I'm fine."
She wore glasses and a pink dress, and her hair was styled in a cute bob. She was really pretty, but she looked like she didn't know that.
Xander asked, "Where's your date?"
She flushed and admitted, "I didn't come with a date."
Xander's expression turned sympathetic, and he squeezed her shoulders. I knew without a doubt that Trish had feelings for him.
Just then, I heard a voice behind me. "Hey, Mira!"
We turned to see the girls from earlier and Xander's supposed friends, their faces twisted in anger. My heart raced as I feared the worst.
One of the girls held up her phone, displaying a photo of me from my prom three years ago. My eyes widened in shock.
"It says you graduated from high school three years ago," she accused, "then why did you say you're still in high school?"
I remained silent, wondering how they had accessed my social media account so quickly.
Ryder sneered, "Cat got your tongue?"
I stood tall, trying to salvage the situation. "You're right, I lied. I'm not in high school, but that won't change the fact that I am Xander's girlfriend."
The group looked divided, unsure what to believe. I felt a glimmer of hope, but Xander's next words crushed me.
"She's not my girlfriend," he said, his eyes apologetic.
I turned to him, shock and betrayal evident on my face. "Xander, what are you...?"
He cut me off, his voice firm. "I lied."
Ryder snorted, "Wow, I'm not surprised. You've always been a cheat."
One of the girls asked, "Why do you guys even talk to him?"
One of the guys replied, "Because he's rich. His father is the head of the guards for the royal family."
The girls nodded understandingly, and I felt a pang of disappointment. Xander's wealth and status had been the reason for their friendship all along.
"Why would you guys say all this?" I asked, my anger boiling over.
One of the girls sneered, "And you are? Like, what, his latest flavor of the week?"
I felt my anger bubbling up, but Xander intervened, his voice soft and broken. "Let it go, Mira."
I was about to retort, but Trish spoke up, her voice shaking. "You guys are wrong, Xander is amazing...he's kind and caring, and he doesn't deserve this."
Ryder snorted, "Oh please, Trish, should I start with how you couldn't even secure a date to this prom?" Trish's face flushed red.
Xander stepped in, "Don't attack her, Ryder."
Ryder scoffed, "Pathetic. Let's go, guys, they're not worth it." They all walked away, eyeing us with disdain.
I felt terrible, looking at Xander's sad face and Trish's tearful eyes. My mind was made up. I ran to the raised stage, grabbing the microphone from the startled DJ. Everyone turned to me, surprised.
Xander's eyes widened, but I steeled myself to start speaking. I took a deep breath and began, my voice clear and strong. "Hey everyone. I don't know why you think being in a relationship is everything. You shun people away when they don't meet your expectations and you're selfish enough to get close to people only because of what you'll gain."
I scanned the crowd, my eyes locking onto familiar faces. "But I looked around and realized that I'd rather stay single and alone than be in a relationship or with people that I'm not happy with. And you know what? I'm okay with that."
Some people shifted uncomfortably, their eyes darting away in guilt.
"Look at me, I'm 20 and I've never been in a relationship before. But what's wrong with that? Is that bad? I don't even feel it because I have supportive friends. I didn't even go to prom with a date because I believe I can have just as much fun on my own."
I turned to Xander, a smile spreading across my face. "So on that note, I'm proud of you, Xander. Any girl would be happy to be your girlfriend. You just don't have to search too far."
Xander's eyes widened in shock, but I continued, my voice unwavering.
"Ryder," I said, my gaze locking onto his. "And those other people who bullied Xander and the rest of the students you think don't meet your expectations... well, I pity you guys. I'm sure you're not very happy in your life."
I turned to Trish and Xander, a genuine smile on my face. "You guys are amazing."
They smiled back at me, and I dropped the mic, walking towards them with a sense of pride and conviction. I felt eyes on me, but I didn't care. The music started, and everyone went back to their own thing, no longer paying attention to me. Xander's voice brought me back to the moment. "That was amazing, you were amazing, Miss Mira."
Trish added, "Yes, thank you very much, Miss Mira."
I smiled, feeling a sense of pride and relief. "No, thank you. Because of you guys, I was able to speak my mind."
They grinned at me. Then, we heard someone laughing, and we turned to see Ryder standing there, his eyes gleaming with malice.
"You guys are even more pathetic than I thought," he sneered. "Did you think I would care about your pathetic speech?"
I raised an eyebrow. "You don't have to care, but seems like your date cares." I nodded towards his date, who was now kissing another guy.
Ryder's eyes widened in shock, and his face turned red with anger. "Shut up, you're just a cheapâ"
But he couldn't finish his sentence. Xander punched him square on the jaw, and Ryder's eyes went wide with shock. He held his jaw, stunned.
Xander warned, "Don't you dare say anything to Miss Mira or I'll do more than punching."
I grinned, feeling a sense of satisfaction. "I would leave if I were you."
Ryder's eyes flashed with fear, and he quickly left the party altogether. We all laughed, and Trish said timidly, "Xander...I...don't know if...you want to dance."
She blushed and looked down, and Xander grinned. "Of course, Trish." He turned to me. "Don't mind me."
I smiled. "I don't mind at all."
Xander held Trish's hand and led her to the dance floor. I watched them dance with a smile on my face, sipping my drink, knowing I had done the right thing.