Crown of Shadows

III

Clara sat in a cosy nook, surrounded by stacks of research papers on climate change, but her mind was far from the diagrams and data. She absently doodled in her notebook, her thoughts drifting toward the phone call with Nic and the impending visit to the capital.

As she flipped the page, her phone vibrated on the table, breaking her concentration. It was a text from Callum.

Hey! Are you free to catch up today?

A small smile appeared on Clara's face. After a hectic week, she could use some time with friends.

Absolutely! Where do you want to meet?

How about that café near campus? I'll bring Beth along. She's been wanting to see you!

Perfect! I'll be there in 20.

Clara gathered her things and headed out into the crisp air of Newlarney. The streets were alive with the sounds of students laughing and the rustle of fallen leaves.

Upon entering the café, Clara spotted Callum and Beth sitting at a table near the window, their faces bright with laughter. Callum looked up and grinned, waving her over. He had a striking physique, sculpted from hours of training, with defined biceps and a strong chest. His skin was a warm, sun-kissed tan, the result of spending time outdoors, giving him an athletic edge that turned heads.

His hair was a tousled dark brown, slightly wavy, and often fell just above his striking blue eyes—deep and captivating, they sparkled with a mischievous glint that revealed his playful nature. His strong jawline was accentuated by a faint scruff, adding to his rugged charm.

"Clara! Over here!" he called, and she couldn't help but smile as she approached.

"Hey, you two! What's so funny?" Clara asked, sliding into the seat beside Beth.

"Just reminiscing about that time we almost got caught sneaking into the botanical garden after hours," Beth chuckled, her eyes sparkling with mischief.

Callum leaned in, a smirk on his face. "Yeah, and how you thought that 'invisible' cloak would actually work, Beth!"

Clara laughed. "I still say it was a good plan. Just poorly executed," Beth defended herself, a playful pout on her lips.

They shared stories about their studies and discussed their weekend plans. Clara felt grateful for the break from her royal responsibilities and the pressures that came with them.

But as the conversation flowed, Beth's expression shifted slightly, a hint of concern creeping into her eyes. "So, Clara, how are you really doing? After everything with Alec?"

The mention of Alec was like a pebble dropped into a still pond, sending ripples through Clara's calm. She hesitated, feeling the weight of emotions pressing against her chest. "I'm okay. I mean, it's still strange. But I'm focusing on the gala and my studies," she said, trying to keep her voice steady.

"I saw him last week at that charity event," Callum said, his tone carefully neutral. "He seemed... fine, I guess. But you know how it is with him. Always putting on a show."

"Right," Clara replied, forcing a smile. "I hope he's doing well."

Beth leaned forward, concern etched on her face. "You deserve to be happy, Clara. And if Alec's not the one who makes you feel that way, then it's good that you broke up."

"Thanks, Beth," Clara said, feeling a swell of gratitude for her friends. "I know I made the right choice. I just didn't expect it to sting like this."

As they continued to talk, Clara's phone buzzed again, this time with a message from Nic.