You win

"Lady Alisha !" Neil exclaimed with a surprised look since he was sure she entered with a foul mood. More importantly he himself couldn't believe that Zen wanted to send her back having no intention to marry her .

"Where are your manners ? Who asked you to barge in like that ?"

"Shut up ! " Zen widened his eyes  he was never spoken this way by anyone . " At this point I wouldn't care of damn manners ! What the hell is wrong with you ? Who asked you to call my family that aside what's with this honesty of yours ? Are you giving up on me ? I covered for you and got myself into the mess because it was my damn choice who asked you to blame yourself for that haan ?" She banged the table . Zen sighed and stood up .

"Listen . I could have sent you long back but I didn't because it was my damn fault for not being able to protect you and moreover you are a weak woman not fit to my standards and I can't have a woman like your rule a mighty nation like Isla alongside me . Zen Scheherezaude who is feared by all understand ? You cant just be a saviour and take all of enemy's attacks bringing yourself on the verge of death . It's not how things happen they're all  just cowardly act  . You weren't able to save yourself how can I rely on you when I need help ? Besides you are just an ordinary woman with ordinary abilities I was a fool to believe you were different . Satisfied? " He looks at her intently digging his fingers into his palm. He knew he didn't mean it . He just wanted to keep Alisha away from his problems and he knew there were many such situations to come . He couldn't let Alisha suffer for his mistakes . He felt no good saying such harsh words. Tears fell down her pretty face unable to control herself . She believed he was right. There was nothing to argue about .

"I know. I'm weak. I don't know anything because this world is a new place for me . I have no experience . I understand I'm not compatible with you , nor can I meet your standards . Still I made a resolve I wanted to get better ! I wanted to be capable of standing beside you , I wanted to improve . I know I should have dodged his attack or tried to protect myself but my body just moved,   my life was less important to me than yours . You are right I should just go back to being myself ..... I'm sorry . " Looking down on the floor she walks away . Zen lets out a deep sigh .

"I can't wait !" Zen spoke as Alisha stopped and stood motionless .

"If you try to be so perfect and flawless woman just for my sake then I can't wait to see that happen"

She held her gown tightly and turned to face him . A cold breeze blew from the open wide windows.

"I'll let you stay but you will have to face more difficulties . Your practice sessions will be rough with extra timing . You will have to learn all etiquettes also give your exams in Islan history .You will have to learn swordsmanship , archery , horseriding , dance , maintain yourself and learn a lot more other things . You will have to meet the standards required for the position of a queen . In short this process is going to be tough . Are you ready to rule this nation alongside me ? "

"I'm ready to do anything as long as you accept me . " Zen walked upto her and raffled her hair.

"Alright then you win . Crying is not a solution to any problem so better not do this again " His tone was strict but gentle . She could understand what he meant . He wanted her to be strong enough to fight all obstacles herself without relying on others. Zen raised himself noticing Alisha's parents .

"Well . We came here to take back our daughter but it seems our daughter wishes for something else. "

"Father ... When did you ..."

"No need to panic dear . Forgive us for our selfish behaviour. We never asked you what you desired . We always ended up imposing our own ideas and rules upon you. It's your right to live your life the way you wish to  . We might have been rough but we did it for your protection . " Her mother nodded in agreement .

"Your Majesty . We are indebted to you for taking care of our daughter so well all this time and helping her find her own way of living.  Alisha has found happiness that's more than enough for us . We don't need anything else. Please take care of her in the future as well. " He was about to bow but Zen held his shoulders . Azeelan entered and joined himself with the group .

"Worry not Mr. Grisham . Alisha is in safe hands. Zen could be cold at times but he is responsible . Besides she is loved by everyone here . I consider her as my daughter.  We will take good care of her . "

"Your grace I'm honoured . Thank you very much " Mr. Grisham replied to the former king as the latter smiled.  Her siblings approached .

"I'm glad you got what you always wanted . I hope you fulfill your role both as a wife and a queen "

"Rose ... I'll Miss you. "

" Will miss you too . " She tilted her head towards Zen . Her dark brown curls bouncing .

" Mr. Handsome . You may be the king of Isla but to me you will always remain a kid brother . Brother in law right ? Anyways don't make her sad I want her to always smile . Hope you can do that for me "

"I'll try my best Big Sis . Sister in law I guess "

"A hahha ... Rose Is just fine . You are quite good than I expected . "

"Rose ... " Alisha's Mom dragged her and asked to be quiet .

"I apologise for my sister's rudeness . She tends to go a little overboard at times Your Highness. "

"Oh don't worry about it . Talkative nature runs in the family I guess . Your name ?"

"My name's Robert . Currently doing my research on medicine . "

"Ah .. that's good to hear. 

"Alright . Please allow us to leave Your Grace .  We have some errands to run in our hometown . " Grisham said

"It would be great if you stayed for a couple of days  Ofcourse we will have to discuss on the engagement dates . "

"Yes but we have to report to His majesty . We will be in touch regarding that matter . "

"No problem at all . " Azeelan smiled and walked out with the family . Neil went to arrange for their transport .It was awkward especially for Alisha after confessing all that she wanted to . She blushed when their gaze met .

"I'll .... Go see them off !" She said abruptly and walked away .

"What's up with her ? She was red like a tomato . " Zen could hardly understand what was troubling her .They all left and the palace was back to normal. Alisha was now busier than  before . She had training everyday . The engagement dates were fixed . Neil was busy with handling the invitation cards and other stuff . Still other professionals were asked to fill for Neil's position . She definitely had no time to spare .

***************