Chapter 1

MIA

"Mother, I'm back," I said as I stuffed a burlap sack with the vegetables I'd picked from the farm.

The sun was not kind to us out in the field. Each of its rays had its way with me. However, this was the best weather for plantations; otherwise, we would starve during the winter. I felt relieved as the weight of the harvested vegetables was lifted from my back and I leaned against the wall.

"Mia, you're working too hard. Don't struggle for me any longer; instead, get married and live a happy life "My mother stated once more.

We've always talked about it, but mother is obstinate when it comes to issues like this. She was always pressuring me to marry, but the truth is that I am not ready for marriage. All I wanted was to see a smile on my mother's face. Knowing she eats and sleeps well. This was my last promise to my father before he died. It has truly been a struggle for us since He left. Father was our fortress, and He was everything we needed to live happily ever after. We lived on the outskirts of the village, a long way from the palace. We've been here for years and few people are aware of our presence. At the very least, it is preferable to being thrown and pushed out into the streets with nowhere to stay. I usually took the harvested vegetables to the village square, which served as the main market. Taffy, my devoted horse, was always up to the task. She was my father's birthday present to me when I turned eighteen. We'd go to the market together, sell the vegetables, and then return home to make a hearty soup for Mother. This was my life, and I didn't have anything to be concerned about.

"You know it's impossible for me to abandon you, Mother. If I do, who will look after you?" I paused, and she flinched in fear. I chuckled "Furthermore, the right man would arrive at the right time. You should know that I'm still very young. I'm only twenty-three years old "I chuckled.

"Well, I'm not getting any younger, and I'd like to see those tiny feet all around me," she said, laughing.

"Don't worry, Mother, you will....soon. But for the time being, you are my top priority, and I must look after you "I stated and kissed her on the cheek.

I left her and went back to the kitchen to prepare dinner for the evening.

ALEX

"Yeah, you went out again!!" My father yelled, and I flinched.

"Yes, Father," I said gently, not wanting to irritate him any further.

This time, it was unavoidable. They'd already noticed me. Those bloody maids and their drab antics.

"Alexander, how many times do I have to tell you not to leave the palace grounds?" He sighed, exhausted.

Stop putting in so much effort, father; it's not working.

Something about being outside the palace attracts my attention. There is nothing like 'The Freedom.' There are no rules or formations; simply live your life as you see fit. That's what I enjoy. I often wonder why I was born a prince. Whoever created me made the wrong decision.

"I'm sorry, Father," I said.

Can we put this discussion to rest now?

"You know what, all this childish nonsense is over now," he said abruptly. "I'm going to find you a wife. Perhaps just when you have more responsibilities, all of this bluffing will stop "He also added

WHAT!!

"No, Father, I can't get married now," I said, already drowning.

I'm reluctant to marry. I still have a lot on my to-do list. I intend to walk all the way to the village's outskirts, where the ocean awaits. I've never been to that location before. It's a little out of the way, but it's worth the risk. Getting married just shatters all of my hopes and dreams.

"Whether you like it or not, I'm getting you a wife," he stated matter-of-factly.

And now the debate has come to an end. Great.

"Let us be gentle with Prince Alex, Your Majesty. He may be acting frivolously now, but don't you think marriage would be a step too far?" Cornelius gave me a wink and a smile.

Cornelius and Clint were the only two people who understood what I was saying. Cornelius is Father's knight, but he is more like His best friend. They were inseparable. He taught me martial arts, archery, and horseback riding. He's a wonderful man. I'm sure if he had a daughter, he would have chosen her for me. He, thankfully, does not.

"No, Cornelius, Alex must learn proper palace etiquette. Otherwise, he will rule rashly "My father stated firmly.

It appears that His words are final. Heartbreaking.

"You're dismissed," he added.

I bowed my way out of the Palace hall. As I returned to my quarters, I noticed Clint, who hadn't said anything, smiling.

"What?" I inquired quickly.

Father's words made me think and ask a lot of questions. How soon will this wife arrive? Who is this maiden who has brought me to my knees?

"You're getting married," he laughed, and I gave him a stern look.

Clint is my bodyguard, but he'd rather be my brother. We grew up together, and he always looked after me and was there for me. He has earned my trust. That's who he is: a very loyal and faithful friend.

Boredom engulfed me as I entered my quarters. Please help me get out of here. Every day, the same things happen. No one is permitted to enter my quarters, just as no one is permitted to enter my father's. It's extremely limited.

As I lay down on my bed, the thought of leaving the palace came back to me. No, I was just chastised. But there are plenty of adventures waiting for me outside. I sat up quickly and turned to look at Clint, who had been smiling at me the entire time.

"Let's go," I said hastily.

His smile quickly turned to a frustrated expression.

"Your Highness, are you unaware of where we have just returned?" He asked, trying as hard as he could to keep the sarcasm at bay.

"What difference does it make? I'll be getting married still. I have a few days to enjoy myself." I stated

"However, The King..." He contended

"We'll be more cautious this time," I promised.

He paused to consider it. Clint enjoyed going out with me as well, but he was hesitant because of Father.

"Fine," he finally said, and I smiled.