As Naria's head rested on Ace's lap, her body shook with silent sobs. She felt the tears well up in her eyes, and soon they began to roll down her cheeks like glistening pearls. She couldn't stop them, even if she wanted to. Her emotions were overwhelming, and she felt powerless to control them.
With a trembling voice, Naria began to speak, her words choked with tears. "I'm so sorry, Ace," she said. "I never wanted to come to the palace. I never wanted to meet the prince. I just wanted to be with you, to live my life on your terms." She paused, taking a shuddering breath. "I didn't want to meet him. I wanted to stay with you only…" Her words hung in the air, heavy with regret and sorrow. Naria closed her eyes, feeling the weight of her confession. She knew that Ace's ego was fragile, and she had just shattered it. But she had to keep pretending. She couldn't be honest, even if it meant losing everything she held dear.
