Prince Florian blinked, clearly taken aback. "What do you mean by next week?" he asked, his voice tinged with disbelief.
Barbara raised an eyebrow. "It is as the prince heard."
"I am still trying to convince the king. The idea of me marrying you is still under discussion, so—" the prince interjected.
Barbara sighed, her frustration evident as she patted her forehead. "Didn't you say you would convince the king?" she asked, her voice laced with exasperation.
"Yes, but not so soon," Florian said, his eyes reflecting his own worries.
Barbara lowered her head, her thoughts swirling like a storm. The elaborate plans she had set for the engagement party were in jeopardy. She envisioned a heart-wrenching scene—a dramatic spectacle that was now at risk of being overshadowed.
"Why do you want the engagement party next week?" Florian's question interrupted her turbulent thoughts.
