We will be safe

Nani sat on the edge of the luxurious bed, his knees drawn to his chest, gazing blankly at the ornate window of the guest room they had been given in Prince Win's palace. The morning sunlight filtered through the curtains, but its warmth did little to calm the storm of anxiety swirling within him. Sky stood near the door, his body tense, his sharp eyes scanning the perimeter through the window as if he expected danger to burst through at any moment.

“I can’t stop thinking about what’s happening back there,” Nani whispered, breaking the silence. His voice was shaky, filled with fear and guilt.

Sky turned to him, his features softening. “I know, Nani,” he said, walking over and crouching in front of him. “But you did what you had to. You couldn’t live a life of lies.”

Nani reached out and clutched Sky’s hands, his grip tight. “I know, but it doesn’t make it any easier. My parents must have realized I’m gone by now. The engagement was supposed to be today. Everyone will be panicking, and I’ve put so many people in danger, including your family.”

Sky gently squeezed Nani’s hands. “We planned this as carefully as we could. My family is safe. Win’s kingdom is safe. And you’re safe. That’s what matters to me.”

Nani nodded but didn’t respond. He rested his forehead against Sky’s, drawing strength from his presence.

---

Back at Nani’s castle, chaos brewed in unexpected ways. The morning had brought shocking news, but it wasn’t Nani’s disappearance that caused the uproar. Instead, the princess, who was to marry Nani, had left a letter for her father, stating she had no intention of going through with the engagement.

The letter read:

*Father, I am sorry, but I cannot marry someone I do not love. I respect the alliances you’ve built, but this is my life. I need to make my own decisions. Please forgive me for leaving like this.*

The princess's father, deeply ashamed, arrived at Nani’s palace with a heavy heart. He was escorted to the king’s private chamber, where Nani’s parents awaited.

The other king, bowing his head in regret, addressed Nani’s father. “Your Majesty, I cannot apologize enough for what my daughter has done. I am deeply ashamed, and I hope this does not harm the friendship between our kingdoms. She is young, foolish, and impulsive. I will speak with her when I find her and ensure she understands the consequences of her actions.”

Nani’s mother, her face red with fury, leaned forward. “Your daughter has embarrassed us all! Do you understand how much effort we put into this engagement? The alliances, the plans, the security—everything is ruined because she decided to run away like a coward!”

“Dear,” Nani’s father said firmly, placing a calming hand on her shoulder. He turned to the other king with a diplomatic smile. “There is no need to apologize further. These things happen, and we understand. I hope you find your daughter and speak to her about her feelings. Perhaps there were reasons she could not express before.”

The other king, relieved by the calm response, bowed deeply. “Thank you, Your Majesty. I will keep you informed of any developments.”

As soon as the other king left, Nani’s mother erupted. “How can you remain so calm? This is a disaster! And where is Nani? He was supposed to meet the princess today! He’s missing too!”

One of the royal guards entered, bowing deeply before addressing the king. “Your Majesty, there’s no trace of the prince in the castle. His personal belongings are gone, and his room is empty. His guards report that he hasn’t been seen since last night.”

The queen’s face turned pale before shifting to a furious red. “Kidnapped! He must have been kidnapped! How else would my son disappear on the day of his engagement? We must alert the people—mobilize the army and—”

“No,” the king interrupted sharply, his tone brooking no argument. “We will not cause a public panic. This kingdom cannot afford chaos right now, especially with the engagement already canceled. We will investigate quietly.”

Turning to the guard, he continued, “Summon the generals and discreetly order a search for the prince. Inform no one else. The media must not hear of this.”

“Yes, Your Majesty,” the guard said, bowing before hurrying off.

---

Win, meanwhile, maintained his facade of innocence. He lounged in the guest wing, dressed in a casual yet princely manner, pretending to be completely oblivious to the turmoil. When summoned by the king, he presented himself with a composed demeanor.

“Win,” the king said, greeting him with a strained smile. “I trust you’ve been comfortable?”

“Very, Your Majesty,” Win replied with a polite bow. “Though I must admit, I’m concerned. There seems to be quite a commotion.”

The king sighed heavily. “It’s unfortunate, but my son seems to be missing. I hope he has not met with any harm. We are searching for him quietly.”

Win’s expression shifted to one of sincere concern. “That’s terrible news. I hope you find him soon. If there’s anything I can do to help, please let me know.”

The king nodded appreciatively. “Thank you, Win. I assure you, we will find him. In the meantime, please focus on your safety. You should return to your kingdom and avoid getting entangled in this.”

Win hesitated, as if reluctant, but eventually nodded. “Very well, Your Majesty. I’ll take my leave tomorrow morning. I wish you success in finding Nani.”

The king’s smile was faint but genuine. “Thank you, Win. Travel safely.”

---

Back in Win’s kingdom, Nani and Sky tried to distract themselves, but every passing hour felt heavier with the weight of uncertainty.

Sky sat beside Nani, his protective instincts kicking in. “They won’t find us. Your father won’t risk exposing your disappearance to the public.”

Nani sighed, running a hand through his hair. “But how long can we stay hidden? And what happens if they do find us?”

Sky placed a reassuring hand on his shoulder. “Then I’ll protect you. No one will take you from me.”

Nani leaned against Sky, finding solace in his unwavering resolve. Despite their fear, their love gave them strength to face whatever came next.