Consent is Awesome. No One Asks for It.

Norae's PoV:

My father is so rude! I was about to be betrothed to Prince Zerreilin, when I really didn't want to. I told my father that I didn't want to marry a stranger, but he ignored me! I probably sounded very whiny and ungrateful, but I argued rarely, but when I did, I argued strongly. No one was taking me seriously! I decided I would talk to Prince Zerreilin about my plans and my reasons, and I would run away hoping he wouldn't snitch on me.I was supposed to meet him in a few hours. My handmaiden was preparing me, giving me a bath and doing my hair. I sighed. I hadn't decided which supplies of mine to take yet. I wanted to take all my stuff, but that would take up too much space. I wanted to travel light. So I secretly packed up some of my stuff, and stashed it in my supply closet. I had forbidden anyone from opening it since it contained my most prized possessions. My art supplies. I had took all the essentials, and had taken a huge bundle of money for buying food and maybe some art supplies along the way. I had planned to run at the small town we were planning to visit for an event. We were leaving for it as soon as my meet with the Prince was over. I would find a guide and pay them so they could show me around done remote places where I could live. We were going two days in advance, as it was courteous to be early. I would miss the event, but I would compensate by having fun at my own new abode. I couldn't wait. I went through my plan again. It was all sorted, and I had a few back up plans too. I could battle almost any situation that would arise. I stole a quick glance at my clock. Half an hour until I met up with the Prince and fled. I took out one of my art books from the closet and started sketching what I wanted my new home to look like. I was so absorbed in it, that when I looked up, I had about three minutes to meet the Prince. I was nervous, yet excited. In a few hours, I would be free! My heart raced as I quickly walked towards the tea room the Prince and I were supposed to meet in. As I stepped into the familiar room, with a tea table in the centre and a few cupboards behind the two posh sofas, I noticed Prince Zerreilin in the corner, looking at a book. It looked like a novel, and he was lightly smirking as he read it. I thought I saw a little blush on his tanned cheeks, but that could've just been my imagination. I had seen him quite a few times before, and we were quite casual with each other - well, as casual as one can be with the heir of the kingdom, but I could never get used to his beauty. He had beautiful golden hair, which always seemed to shine, and alluring amethyst eyes, which I sometimes wish I could draw. A splash of freckles littered his face and his expression was always quite easygoing. It looked like he was a nice person, but I couldn't say for sure, as we mostly only made small talk or sat in silence. Today, that would change. I would tell him about my plans, so he wouldn't be startled, but wouldn't tell him all the details as he could try to come and find me, or tattle on me. I couldn't be sure if he would snitch or not, so I would take no chances. I coughed lightly, to get his attention. He snapped his head up. He looked a bit embarrassed. I bowed to show my respect. He dipped his head in return. His shiny, golden, gelled hair flopped around a bit. We strode over to the cushioned sofas and seated ourselves. I would wait for a few minutes to speak. He gently smiled at me. I smiled back. I then looked downwards and concentrated on my shoes. They were blue, matching my gown and jewellery. I probably looked like a raindrop. He started speaking.

"How have you been?"

"I've been alright. How about you? The many ships arriving at the the port must be swamping you with a lot more work."

"I've been fine too. The ships aren't much of a bother, but the agriculture plans are creating a bit of a problem."

"Oh."

We sat in silence for a bit after that. I was quite embarrassed, but I had to speak to him about my plans.

"Um- so- I'll get straight to the point. Excuse me if this might sound a bit rude." He looked startled at my sudden outburst, but he also had a hint of curiosity peeking out from his jewel-like eyes. I continued.

"As you might already know, um- we are going to the town for the event today. Uh- I plan to run away when we reach there. I just wanted to inform you because it would be despicable of me to leave you in the dark about my abandonment. It's not because I have anything against you exactly, but I really don't want to get married this early. I hope you understand and I am ready to accept any hate that I might receive from you." I rambled on. I was almost sure I messed up my words. I probably looked very embarrassed. He looked shocked and a bit sad.

"Thank you for telling me beforehand. I really appreciate it. You won't be receiving any hate from me. I understand why you're doing so. I just have something to ask. May I join you in your little escapade?" He looked quite calm. I thought he would have a much more intense reaction. His words finally registered in my head.

"What?!"

[Word Count : 999]