The Hidden Prince

Chapter 10: The Kingdom Unveiled

                                ~10~

The heat of Veloria’s late summer hit Amelia like a wave as she stepped off the private plane. The small island nation, known for its tropical climate and vibrant culture, stretched out before them, a mix of lush greenery and ornate architecture. The royal palace stood on the horizon, its white marble towers gleaming in the sunlight. Even from this distance, it was impossible to ignore the grandeur of it all.

Leo stood beside her, his face unreadable as he took in the sight of his homeland. Amelia could feel the tension radiating from him, the weight of returning to the life he had left behind pressing heavily on his shoulders. He hadn’t spoken much during the flight, lost in his thoughts, and now, as they disembarked, he seemed even more withdrawn.

A sleek black car waited for them on the tarmac, and as they approached, Amelia could see a small group of staff standing nearby, their eyes filled with curiosity and a touch of apprehension. They were all dressed impeccably, each of them aware of the significance of Leo’s return.

As they reached the car, an older man stepped forward—Leo’s former personal assistant, Gregory, who had once been a constant presence in his life. Gregory smiled, his weathered face crinkling with warmth. “Your Highness,” he said, bowing slightly. “Welcome home.”

Leo stiffened at the formal address, a flicker of discomfort crossing his face. “Thank you, Gregory,” he replied, his voice calm but distant.

Gregory turned to Amelia, his eyes kind. “Ms. Harper, it’s a pleasure to meet you. Welcome to Veloria.”

“Thank you,” Amelia said, offering a polite smile, though her nerves were bubbling just beneath the surface.

They climbed into the car, and as it pulled away from the airstrip, Amelia gazed out the window, taking in the beauty of the island. The narrow streets were lined with colorful buildings, and locals moved about with a relaxed pace, seemingly unaffected by the looming palace that dominated the skyline.

Leo remained silent beside her, his gaze fixed ahead. She could tell he was steeling himself for what lay ahead, for the inevitable confrontation with his family and the kingdom he had abandoned.

“You okay?” she asked quietly, placing her hand on his arm.

He glanced at her, forcing a small smile. “I will be,” he said, though his voice lacked conviction.

As they neared the palace, the reality of their situation hit Amelia with full force. This was no longer a story she could control with a well-placed interview or a carefully crafted statement. This was Leo’s life, his history, and now, she was about to step into it fully, with all its complications and challenges.

The car wound its way up the palace drive, and soon, the sprawling gardens and towering gates came into view. Guards in royal uniforms stood at attention as they passed, their eyes following the car with sharp awareness. Amelia’s pulse quickened, her mind racing with thoughts of what was to come.

Finally, the car came to a stop in front of the grand entrance. The doors were opened for them, and as Leo stepped out, a hush fell over the staff waiting inside. Amelia followed, her heart pounding in her chest as they crossed the threshold into the palace.

The interior was breathtaking—high ceilings, ornate chandeliers, and walls lined with portraits of past kings and queens. It was a place steeped in history and tradition, a stark contrast to the simple life Leo had chosen for himself in England.

“Your Highness,” a voice called out, and both Amelia and Leo turned to see a woman approaching—a tall, elegant figure with silver hair and piercing blue eyes. It was Queen Margareta, Leo’s mother.