I let out a sigh, I knew they wouldn't buy it that easily but I have no other choice. I have to convince them so our plan can start.
I turned to Amo, the one who is easier to manipulate, making sure to keep our eyes locked. I started:'' I know our situation isn't ideal, but it's just how things are. I didn't choose him and he didn't choose me either! The matters of the heart are beyond pur power,'' I reached my hand to hold his,'' please, you know where I'm coming from.'' I added, hinting at his painful love story. I hate to be the one reminding my brother of his failed marriage, but I either win or win.
I made sure to avoid Nsir's gaze while I talked about my feelings, alternating between looking down at my lap in fake-shyness or looking at Amo to gain his empathy. Nasir would not buy it, he would however be my focus in the upcoming step. I knew that by not addressing him I'd be subjected to his scrutinising gaze, but I could do with some suspicion, as long as I had Amo's support.
Once I was certain that Amo believed me, I turned my attention to my other brother, the one who would be the most-interested in what I'm about to say:
'' Despite my feelings for the duke, I do not wish to become his wife.'' I finally said. Surprising them with my admission.
'' Then what about what happened yesterday? Were you not made aware of his desire to become your knight?'' Asked Nasir.
'' No,'' I responded,'' he never told me. In fact, we haven't been corresponding for the three months prior to our trip. I expected he had chosen to forget about me, but it seems he had hopes when it comes to our future''
'' Have you told him about your decision then? Because I came looking for you yesterday after you two went to talk and found a serious-looking Hebron, looking less animated than he did when he confessed to you at the stairs.'' finally said Amo.
'' First of all, he did not confess. It was merely an innocent admission of loyalty, besides why did you come looking for me?'' I inquired.
'' You do not expect me to let you go with the duke when I was sure and certain you two hated one another. God, I still can't believe we were so blind to your feelings toward him.'' said my closest brother, acting as if his actions were not a violation of my privacy.
'' I wasn't feeling well so I left the room, we finished our talk at dinner, hence his abrupt leaving mid-dinner.'' I lied, choosing not to meet his eyes.
'' The Naib was so interested in your connection to the duke, he was singing praise of your achievements at the academy to the lord of Leini, which is something I could never foresee the Naib doing. It is the duke's doing, is it not?'' Asked me Nasir.
'' I suspect it, since the Naib arrived around the same time his letters stopped arriving.'' I added.
There was a pause, then he spoke again:'' You know you two will be facing consequences for yesterday's event. I am not saying it is your fault, however your reputation could get tarnished if you let the story run around.'' I knew that, and even if it's a small battle I don't mind losing in order to win the war, I could better use it to my advantage.
I sat straight, making sure they listen to my every word:'' I know how to handle that.''
'' Do you?'' asked me Nasir,'' you know nothing of this kingdom's politics so tell me, how?''
Angry with his words I responded:'' Maybe if you did not critisize every public attendance I did, then I would know!''
'' So you're saying it's my fault you'd rather make explosives than study etiquettes and politics like every other noble woman?''
''I did study. But i was never interested in history and etiquettes, and I know Tnery's politics very well. I liked what I liked and you have no right deciding what I can or can not do.'' I said, my voice louder this time.
'' That's not enough! You are the one and only princess of the strongest empire! Your lack of proper manners is not excused! Your lack of knowledge is not excused! You could be married to the crown prince of Esteria and you know nothing of his land!'' exclaimed Nasir as he stood from his chair, running an angry hand through his well-styled hair.
'' What are you talking about? Alexander and I are friends, and we will not be married!'' I told him, out of breath.
'' It is still a possibility'' said Amo, thoughtfully.
'' But I am getting married to khaleel. Father already knows, and you two,'' I said pointing at them,'' do not have a say in it! Stay out of my life!'' I said as I stormed out of the room.