Author's Note: Hi, Readers, I just republished this. I recently posted the second chapter so check that one after that! Happy reading :)
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I take a step into the light. The jewels on my dress shimmer like a thousand stars in a dark void. I look like a Queen when I am only a Princess. I stare at myself, inhaling sharply. The aroma of cinnamon and vanilla is faint in the air, I know my mother is near without having to turn.
"You look beautiful, dear," my mother says, putting a pendant around my neck. It is cold and heavy, not exactly my choice of accessories.
"Thank you," I say shortly.
"A true heir," she comments. I just nod. I look like a girl playing dress-up. No. I am Cassandra Elizabeta Lucille Astor, heir to the crown. Heir to the life of misery and choices being made for me. What fun.
Breathe, I command myself. My father walks in, grinning at me. At the little girl that he built up. He hugs me and nods at Mother.
It's over in an hour. You can deal.
"You look lovely, my dear," he tells me.
"Thank you," I reply. I have his eyes, cold blue and cunning. I share my mother's height, tall and proud. I have their pride in me, I will not let it go.
My betrothed is waiting. He's kind no doubt, but I don't wish to fall in love with someone that hand-picked.
My sister, Nicoletta, stands beside me on the walk down. She's 2 years young than I, being 15. She walks gracefully.
"Scared?" she asks.
"Horrified," I whisper.
"It'll be over soon," she squeezes my hand. I hold on tight, one piece of reality I need.
We make it into the glimmering Throne Room. Mother insisted on having my prince and I meet in here. she said it was proper.
Who am I to tell her it's not?
I see him. Like all of them, perfect and tall. His hair is honey gold, curly. His skin is light. He smiles as I walk in. I force one out, not wanting to be rude.
I'm walking into the belly of the beast. But I am not scared now. It is my duty. I need a suitable husband, don't I?
"Prince Alexander," he bows. I curtsy awkwardly, stumbling a little bit. I regain composure. "It is lovely to make your acquaintance."
What are we colleagues? I want to roll my eyes but refrain.
"Likewise," I respond. My parents and his leave the room. We stand in front of each other, observing quickly. He doesn't look arrogant which is a pro.
I count 5 minutes. I survey the room, looking for possible exits. I should just be blunt, break the boy's heart quickly to get it over with.
But how?
My words come out before I can stop them.
"If we can't fall in love....." I begin, feeling horrible already.
"Then we'll be friends. We'll have to marry anyway," he sighs. "I love someone else, too, Cassandra. I know how it feels."
"How do you know I love someone?" I ask, confused.
"You have the glow of someone who's in love," he chuckles.
"Ah," I laugh. "Friends then?"
I hold out my hand for him. Instead of turning it away, or his face breaking into an upset scowl. He only smiles, a relieved look crossing his eyes.
"Friends," he shakes my hand.
At least one problem is solved.
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