Chapter 7

After 2 days, Vincent visited the Palace for his majesty's daily report. Once a month, Vincent was required to report to the Palace about his plans and achievement and perhaps check up on his majesty's health.

I was making myself busy with Damien, who was busy reading books. I didn't bother to make some small talk since that would distract him. I did what I did and cleaned his room after preparing his lunch.

For what happened at the ball, Damien did a good job from what I've heard. He was invited by the Marquess to play chess for sometime after sharing his knowledge. He was also invited to tea parties and his relationship with Ashlene was good. I could tell he was pushing himself too hard and that's when I decided he needed a break.

"Shall we go see some flowers for sometime you highness?" I asked.

"You're pushing yourself too hard lately" I commented.

He shook his head and sighed.

"It's alright. It's just, I think it is a good idea to gain some knowledge" he said and continued reading.

"Well, if you're tired, you can take a rest. Here, have some sweets" I said before placing the tray that contained his snacks.

It was just a simple fresh orange juice and a pudding and a strawberry shortcake. His highness has a sweet tooth so he's kind of addicted to sweets. Although I try my best to give him not too much or he'll end up getting diabetes.

"I'm gonna go to His highness William. If you'll excuse me" I say.

"I'll just be here if you need anything" he says and starts writing.

I gave him a polite nod and went outside. I was busy walking down the hallway when I saw Vincent waving at me. I waved back and gave him a small smile as acknowledgement.

"Are you free?" he asks.

"I kind of have something to tell you. Regarding about what I've said two nights ago." he added.

"I have to attend his highness William. But I will be free after that. Maybe in 2 hours" I informed him.

"Alright. I'll wait for you at the Rose garden" he says quickly before leaving.

I was about to walk towards William's chamber when I saw him walking towards me.

'damn I'm bumping to a lot of people lately'

"Greetings, your highness" I greeted with a bow.

"What were you and Vincent talking about?" he asks.

"Just trivial matters. Pardon me for asking but what is his highness doing here? Going somewhere?" I asked.

"I was looking for you because you were late" he said as he walked back to his chambers, with me following behind.

"My apologies then" I say before closing the door.

"Anyhow, I didn't see you at the ball. Where did you and Vincent run off to? " he asked curiously.

"Just to get some fresh air your highness" I replied and started combing his hair.

Today was the day he was going to the expedition in the west to survey the village that was suffering with drought and I could tell he was going to be gone for a few days.

"You ignore my proposal and yet Vincent is allowed to act like your date? Moreover you ignored your responsibilities. You were tasked to tend us last night but you were busy goofing around with some guy you just met" he says harshly.

"Pardon me your highness, I was merely accompanying him. Moreover he was the one to drag me out of the party. I was supposed to come back but his highness Damien forbid me to do so" I explained.

"Then what is this that I heard from the guards? I heard you came out from the guestroom which where Vincent had stayed two days ago" he asked again.

'why am I even arguing with him?' I thought to myself.

"He had a hard time breathing. I just accompanied him to get some rest. Although pardon me for asking but why is your highness bringing this up now?" I asked quite annoyed.

"Because I didn't have the chance to say it. I haven't seen you much because of the preparations for the expedition. Anyhow, while I'm gone you best be on your behavior and try not to goof off around" William says looking at himself in the mirror.

"Pardon me but you are not my parents to tell me what I do on my personal matters. It is my choice whether I goof off around your highness. After all I am a lady, and girls my age are supposed to settle down" I say.

"I am your master and I bare such responsibilities. Anyhow you won't be settling down soon. After all you're gonna be stuck with me and Damien for the rest of your life" he smirked.

"I can quit whenever I want. Besides you won't be here for a few days and who knows, I might goof off around while you're not here" I roll my eyes.

"I will have Damien look after you"

"and you think Damien cares for what I do? To add up, you and Damien have a bad relationship so you might reconsider" I say.

"That stubbornness of yours will be fixed when I'm back. Seriously, you're unbelievable. Arguing or disrespecting the Prince is a severe crime and I hope you're ready for the punishment" he says.

"oh ill be ready all right" I reply not knowing how severe the punishment was.