I was having a fantastic day, until Prince Luan showed up. As soon as I see him, I know what's going on. He's here to steal Haroun away from me, like I would let that happen. Will
Haroun must sense my discomfort because he gives me a gentle squeeze, which helps a bit. I turn to Prince Luan with a polite but forced smile.
"It really is rather rude to show up unannounced," I say, trying to keep my irritation in check but failing.
Clearly sensing my mood Prince Luan's lips curl into a polite but insincere smile. "Ah, Princess Lucina, it seems I've arrived at a rather cozy gathering. I hope I'm not interrupting anything... too intimate." His gaze lingers on Haroun and me, his tone dripping with fake sweetness.
I raise an eyebrow, keeping my voice light but edged with a hint of annoyance. "Not at all, Prince Luan. We were just enjoying some quality time together. I'm sure your presence will add an interesting dynamic to our afternoon."
Haroun shifts slightly but keeps his composure, though the tension is palpable. Luan leans back, his eyes scanning the room with practiced nonchalance. "I must say, the decor here is quite... charming. Though I suppose it's not quite as grand as the palace."
I suppress a smirk. "Indeed, Prince Luan. We try to keep things modest here. Not everyone needs to live in such opulence."
Luan's smile tightens, but he maintains his courteous facade. "Of course, modesty suits you well, Princess. I've heard you're quite adept at making the most of what you have."
Haroun's grip on me tightens subtly, his annoyance now clear. I squeeze his hand reassuringly and shift my attention back to Luan. "Well, if you're here to discuss anything, I'm all ears. Though I'd prefer if our conversation stayed away from personal matters."
"Of course," Luan says, his tone suggesting otherwise. "I'd hate to impose. Let's talk about something more... public, shall we?"
Luan compliments about Haroun's swordsmanship start to grate on my nerves. His words seem too rehearsed, lacking genuine admiration. I decide to cut him off before he can dig deeper.
"Of course, my dearest is quite talented," I say, injecting a finality into my tone.
Luan's face shows a flicker of surprise before he shoots Haroun a scrutinizing look. My protective instincts flare up, and I feel the need to shield Haroun from Luan's intense gaze.
"Have you considered a position as my personal guard? I'm sure my staff would be quite pleased," Luan says smoothly.
"He's not interested," I reply, trying to end the discussion.
Luan's eyes narrow slightly. "I believe he can speak for himself. In fact, I'd like to have a private conversation with him."
I weigh the situation, knowing I can't refuse without causing a scene. I reluctantly stand up from Haroun's lap. His eyes meet mine with a mixture of confusion and reluctance, and I try to hide my amusement at his expression. I signal for Nikolai and Valendor to follow me.
"Very well," I say with a forced smile. "I'll leave you to it."
As I leave with Nikolai and Valendor, I can't help but feel a twinge of irritation.
*
I watch as Lucina and the others leave, leaving me alone with Prince Luan. He's studying me with a look of calculating interest. His similar features to Lucina—white hair and grey eyes—are strikingly familiar, but his demeanor is all business.
He lets out a resigned sigh. "So, Haroun, I want you to join my faction. I'm offering you a position of importance," he says, his tone laced with authority. I remain silent, observing him.
"I understand that you want to stay with my sister, but from what I can see, you're already sharing her limited affections," he continues.
Before I can stop myself, I respond, "I'm sure your fiancée and I share the same sentiments." It's a well-known fact that Prince Luan is romantically involved with several women, including the duke's daughter and a female knight, while indulging in fleeting affairs with maids.
Luan's expression momentarily falters, but he quickly regains his composure, his voice now serious. "I'll let that comment slide," he says, his tone icy as he regains his composure.
"You're a commoner, Haroun. You have looks and my sister's affection, but that won't last forever. I'm offering you a chance to be more than just her pet."
He leans back in his chair, a calculating smile on his face. "Let's be realistic. Eventually, she'll have to marry. What will happen to you then? I doubt any noble or foreign prince would tolerate your presence. What then?"
His words hit home, and I can't help but flinch at the implication. He seems to take satisfaction in my reaction. With a final, smug smile, he stands up.
I rise as well, but he gestures for me to remain seated. He leaves me there, alone with my thoughts, as I contemplate his offer and what it means for my future.
Soon, the Princess strides back in, her presence commanding attention and effortlessly dispelling my worries. Her mere arrival shifts my focus entirely, drawing my gaze and thoughts away from the conversation with Prince Luan.