Fiancee or Enemy?

II

The next day, Evelynne was in the middle of her history lesson when she was interrupted by the queen. "Excuse me," the queen said. "May I have a word with my daughter?"

Evelynne's tutor nodded and left the room, leaving the queen and the princess alone. Scarlett took her daughter's hand and led her to a sitting room in the palace, where they could talk privately.

"Evelynne, my dear, I know that you are probably feeling overwhelmed by the news of your arranged marriage," the queen began, speaking in a soft and gentle tone.

Evelynne nodded, feeling a lump form in her throat. She had been dreading this conversation, knowing that her mother would try to convince her to agree to the marriage.

"I know that this is not what you wanted, but please understand that this is for the good of our kingdom," Scarlett continued. "The war has gone on for far too long, and we need to do everything in our power to bring about a lasting peace."

Evelynne understood her mother's reasoning, but it didn't make the situation any easier. "I know, mother," she replied. "I will do what is necessary for the kingdom."

Scarlett smiled, relieved to hear her daughter's words. "I am glad to hear that, my dear. And I have faith that you will make a wonderful match for Prince Lorcan."

Evelynne tried to hide her discomfort at the mention of the prince's name. She had never met him before, and the thought of marrying a stranger made her uneasy. "What is he like, mother?" she asked tentatively.

The queen smiled. "From what I have heard, he is kind and just. And he is said to be quite handsome," she added with a twinkle in her eye.

Evelynne couldn't help but roll her eyes at her mother's comment, but she knew that the queen was trying to lighten the mood. "I hope that he is as kind as you say," she said diplomatically.

The two women talked for a while longer, discussing the logistics of the wedding and the political implications of the alliance. Evelynne tried her best to remain composed and agreeable, even though she felt like her world was being turned upside down.

As they talked, Evelynne couldn't help but take in her surroundings. The sitting room was grand and opulent, with plush velvet chairs and gilded accents. Paintings of past monarchs hung on the walls, their stern faces watching over the room.

Despite the luxurious decor, Evelynne couldn't shake the feeling that she was being trapped, like a bird in a gilded cage. She knew that she had no choice but to go through with the marriage, but the thought of spending the rest of her life with a stranger made her heart ache.

As the conversation drew to a close, the queen stood up and took her daughter's hands. "I know that this is a lot to take in, my dear," she said. "But I have faith that you will do what is best for our kingdom. And who knows? Perhaps this marriage will bring about a lasting peace."

~

 Later that day, Scarlett waited for the king outside the throne room. As he emerged, she noticed the smile on his face and knew that he was overjoyed with the marriage proposal. She had mixed feelings about the marriage. On one hand, she knew it could bring an end to the war and save countless lives. On the other hand, she was worried about Evelynne's safety.

As she was lost in her thoughts, a guard approached her. "Your majesty, I have some information that might interest you," he said, his voice low.

Scarlett was intrigued and leaned in to listen. The guard whispered something in her ear, and she gasped in shock. The information was sensitive, and she knew she had to tell Evelynne immediately.