Adoptive family visit?

Months had passed since the murder attempt, and the memory still lingered in the shadows of Arissa's mind. Life had returned to a semblance of normalcy, but the absence of Karson weighed heavily on her heart. Since the ceremony, he had been sent away on a business trip, presumably to rectify his earlier behavior and fulfill his duties as the duke's son. As for Arissa, she busied herself with her royal responsibilities, learning the intricacies of governance, advising her father, and trying to make a difference in the kingdom.

Days dragged on with a monotonous rhythm, her routine painfully predictable. The sun would rise, and she would immerse herself in lessons, paperwork, and meetings with various nobles. As the afternoon waned, a knock on her door shattered the stillness.

"Come in," she called, her curiosity piqued.

Several ladies waited outside, but only one entered—a young maid with a nervous demeanor. She bowed deeply, her voice quavering slightly. "Your Highness, his Majesty requests your presence."

Arissa's brow furrowed in confusion. It was unusual for her father to summon her at this hour. Still, she nodded and followed the maid through the ornate corridors of the palace, the echo of their footsteps a stark contrast to the silence of her room.

When they reached the king's office, the maid opened the door, allowing Arissa to step inside. Her father sat behind his grand desk, a warm smile illuminating his face. "Ah, my dear, please sit."

Arissa settled into the chair opposite him, still wondering about the purpose of this meeting. "Why did you call for me, Father?"

The king leaned back, a glint of excitement in his eyes. "I have some wonderful news! Your mother and brother will be arriving the day after tomorrow. We're planning a grand banquet to welcome them."

A rush of joy swept through her. "Oh! Mother is finally coming back?" It had been so long since she had seen her.

"Yes, but it seems there's a reason for her visit. While planning your brother's birthday celebrations, your mother's father fell ill, so she took the time to attend to him. As for your brother…" His expression darkened. "He has been quite the troublemaker lately."

Arissa's heart sank. "What do you mean?"

Her father leaned forward, concern etched in his features. "He's been missing for long stretches, often found in clubs and neglecting his duties. I fear the public might see this as a sign of instability in the royal family."

Arissa's thoughts raced. "If the public learns of this, they will question our legitimacy! We can't have that!"

"I know," the king said, his voice firm. "That's why I need you to keep this information confidential. If he continues this behavior, I expect you to intervene and report back to me."

"Why can't you have your servants do that?" she asked, frustration creeping into her tone.

"Because I want you all to trust each other as a family," he replied, his eyes serious. "We need to work together to support the royal family."

Arissa felt heat rise to her cheeks. "Fine, Father." She stood, performing a curtsey. "I shall take my leave."

"Rest well, Arissa. We need to prepare for the banquet," he said, his smile returning.

As she turned to leave, she rolled her eyes, tears welling up as she battled her emotions. The burden of responsibility felt heavier than ever, especially knowing she had to manage her brother's recklessness on top of her own duties. It hardly seemed fair.

Once back in her room, she changed into her comfortable nightgown and leaped onto her bed, sinking into the familiar softness. She took a deep breath, allowing herself a moment of reprieve. As she stared at the ceiling, her mind drifted to her adoptive family—the pain of losing their daughter, their home, and all their possessions weighed on her heart.

"What happened to them?" she whispered to herself, wondering how they were faring in the aftermath of such tragedy. A small smile crept onto her lips as she recalled a time when her adoptive father had tried to maintain his composure amidst chaos. "That old man thought he could be cool until life took everything from him," she chuckled softly, shaking her head.

With that thought lingering, she rolled onto her back, her eyes fluttering closed. But as she drifted off, her mind began to fill with questions about Evie—her sweet, spirited sister who had always brought light to dark days. What was she doing now? Was she safe?

As sleep began to take her, a sense of unease settled over her. The world outside her window felt distant, yet so much remained unresolved. She hoped that the upcoming banquet would not only bring her family together but also shed light on the secrets and struggles they had all faced in her absence.