Peter’s confession.

But it was interesting. I enjoyed her honest laugh and I was grateful no one tried to chat me up.

As we left and walked back to my room, Valleria took my hand and squeezed it tightly. "Are you okay?" she asked me softly.

I looked at her, surprised by her sudden concern.

"Yes," I lied, not wanting to burden her with my fears and doubts.

But as soon as we were alone in my chambers, I collapsed onto the armchair, overwhelmed by everything that had happened today. Valleria came over to me immediately, sensing my distress. She leaned closer to me and took my hand again, this time stroking my fingers gently with hers.

"Maximilian," she said softly, "I'll be happy to help you with anything, I hope you know that."

I looked at her then, really looked at her for the first time in weeks. She was so beautiful, so strong and capable. And yet, she still loved me despite all my flaws and weaknesses. It was a humbling realization that left me feeling both grateful and ashamed at the same time.

"I know," I said finally, "but sometimes it's hard for me to let go of control. Everything is so complicated. I'm trying so hard and yet, I'm making no progress."

Valleria smiled then, a small but genuine smile that made my heart skip a beat. "I understand," she said softly, "and I want you to know I'm here for you."

I took a deep breath then, feeling a sense of gratitude. "I want you to know," I said slowly, "that I trust you more than anyone else in this world. More than I trust myself."

Valleria's eyes widened as she squeezed my hand. "Max," she said softly, "I love you so much I'd die for you."

And with that simple statement, everything fell into place for me. It was like a weight had been lifted off my shoulders, leaving me feeling lighter and freer than before.

I hugged her for almost an hour before some maid came looking for her. As Valleria left the room, I couldn't help but feel a sense of relief mixed with gratitude, as her words stayed engraved into my soul. Her dedication was admirable. And I didn't doubt her statement, well aware she wasn't joking. 

After few hours, a knocking disturbed me even when I asked them not to bother me for the rest of the day. I sighed and put the old book back on the table.

"Your Majesty. Would you allow me a word with you?" That was Peter's voice, calling out for me from behind the closed door. He was one of the men of the queen's guard.

My blood froze as my mind filled with gruesome scenarios. He is the one supposed to hold a night guard. Is she hurt? I jumped up and quickly covered the distance between me and the door.

"Speak." I opened them and turned my whole body toward his direction. He was reserved to do so. I noticed a bruise on his jaw and I got restless.

"Leave us for a minute." I ordered the royal guards, hoping Peter would be more willing to share whatever he wanted to say. 

"There was an incident among the guards. One of the men got drunk this noon and Martin overheard his conversation about Her Highness, with some other guy." Peter swet and his whole body language was weird "We killed both of them and are ready to face up to the consequences." He then finished and knelt in front of me. 

I noticed his body slightly tilted to the side, probably because of sore ribs or something like that.

"What conversation?" I asked, my voice barely above the whisper.