Prologue




Rhian looked at the man in front of her as she laughed at some story he was telling. He is not Nick but he can be as charming as him. Of course, no one can be as great as the love of her life.

But she decided to move on. When she chose Paolo because they were betrothed, Nick left the country, very hurt and angry. She could not blame him. They had plans for their future and she broke those dreams just because she wanted to be noticed by her father, the king, and the rest of the royal family.

But after her pep talk with Amelia before her sister's wedding, she decided to rethink about her priorities and realized that she lost the only man she could ever love, the only person who always made her special. She decided to give up her birthright and follow Nick in London but it must be a wrong move. She found Nick, kissing a woman. It was one of the most heartbreaking moments in her life.

So now, she ended up in a high-end club in London, talking and drinking with random strangers who recognized her as the youngest princess in Volzenburga. She didn't mind the attention. She met new people who can make her forget about Nick, even for just a while.

"So what are your plans later?" Giorgio asked her. He is one of the famous socialites in London and he approached her more than an hour ago after an acquaintance introduced them to each other.

"Nothing. I only planned to hang around tonight and do whatever." She replied.

Giorgio smiled. "You mean, do whoever."

Rhian smiled back as she shakes her head. "No, that's not what I mean." She drinks her cocktail. She's disappointed. Just when she thought that this man could be a friend, he suddenly hinted on having sex with her. She is supposed to get used to that. After all, she is beautiful, like most of the princesses should. She is still a princess after all, despite the fact that she gave it up a few months back. But her father, the king, never wanted to let her go.

She stood taller than an average female Volz should at 5"10. Her skin is a natural tan. Her long and wavy hair always cascades freely down her back, like her sisters. They said she looks like her mother when Juliana was young. Rhian takes it as a compliment. She never saw her mother, or remember anything about her. She was only a toddler when the queen died.

"Let's dance," Giorgio invited her.

She shakes her head. "I'm not in the mood." She suppressed a yawn. The alcohol is starting to dwell its effects on her. "Let's just stay here and talk, or go somewhere quiet."

"I love the idea. This place is getting crazy for each passing minute." Giorgio replied. "Do you have your bodyguards?"

"I ditched them some time ago," Rhian giggled after finishing her cocktail.

"Alright, stop that drink. You must be drunk. Let's go and we will make you sober." Giorgio took her hand and led her towards the exit. The people they passed by would bid Rhian farewell. She would wave back while laughing at the same time.

From a distance, Nick followed her and her company. He quietly watched them get inside a heavily-tinted car and sped off.



~~~



Nick ignored the nagging pain in his shoulders as he parked the car in front of the emergency area of the hospital. With his trembling bloodstained hands, he took Rhian out of the car and ran inside the hospital, shouting for doctors. The medical personnel immediately appeared from every corner.

"Please help," he said desperately. He ignored his tear-stricken face when a nurse stared at him in surprise. "I saw her being shot," he continued as Rhian's unconscious form was transferred in a gurney. "I tried to stop but I was shot, too." Weariness came over him and he fell in the arms of the doctor beside him.



>> 1

1




Rhian is always emotional at weddings and she was thankful that the years she took in hiding her emotions paid off during this kind of events. Today, one of her close friends, Martina, is getting married to an engineer she met abroad, Peter. Rhian also dreamt of getting married someday. She is not asking for too much. As long as the man loves her, has a good background, rich and good-looking, and can take care of her, she's contented with that.

She turned when the bridal march started. She is one of the bridesmaids. Martina did not come from a noble family but her family is wealthy. She was Rhian's classmate in boarding school and they were close ever since. Rhian didn't expect that her friend is about to marry a man who only came from the middle class. If not for Martina, she will not grace her presence in this wedding. Those 'middies', stands for middle class as she calls them, were curious about her because most of them never saw a beautiful princess before. Aside from the bride, she's also the subject of attention to most of the guests. She didn't want that. This is Martina's day. She hoped that the middies would stop looking at her.

"Let's go." A man, who suddenly came beside her, muttered, interrupting her thoughts. It was their turn to walk and she spaced out. She turned in question to the man. There was irritation and boredom in his tone. She saw him offering his arm to her.

"Did you take a bath?" She asks.

"Excuse me?" The man raised an eyebrow. He turned to her and she was mesmerized. He is good-looking. No, he is gorgeous. He looked sexy in his three-piece suit. And there is no question that he took a bath. She can smell the heavenly scent coming from him.

"Forget what I said." She reached out to take his arm but he dropped it. She looked at him.

"I think you can walk without touching me," the man said. He gestured for her to lead the march.

Rhian did not show the man how infuriating he become in front of her eyes. She walked ahead. All eyes were on her. There were cameras snapping pictures and the video cameras started rolling. She felt the man walking beside her. They didn't touch, not even a brush on each other's arms. But they made sure that they keep each other's pace without letting anyone notice that something went between them.

Who is he? Rhian wondered. Is he that foreign immigrant that Peter was talking about, that artist? She forgot about it. She was not interested anyway. But she should reprimand Peter later for not telling her beforehand that the guy is gorgeous.

She reached the end of the march and went to her place. When she glanced on the other side, she met the man's look. To her surprise, the man rolled his eyes and shakes his head. What does he mean by that? She didn't have the chance to contemplate on it because after the maid of honor has gone, Martina slowly came into view. She looked so lovely. Rhian's eyes threatened to moist at the sight of her beautiful friend who looked so happy. She wanted to look like that too, someday.

Martina passed by her, never even bothered to glance at anyone but to the man waiting for her with the priest. Peter was in tears. When Martina raised her hand to take her future husband's hand, Rhian realized that her friend is crying too. But they were smiling despite the tears.

The wedding rites began.



~~~



Rhian spotted her bodyguards in every corner of the reception. Her father called a while ago and she was given an hour more to stay. She had to go home. The king did not want to compromise her safety by making her stay longer. She wanted to stay and enjoy the party. She realized that most of their friends came to the wedding and it instantly became a reunion for them.

She sighed as she watched the people dancing on the floor. It looked so fun but she doesn't have a partner. All her friends were gone to dance with their lovers while she, despite her beauty and royalty, didn't even have a boyfriend. She is not like Drew who changes men as if they were only her shoes. She saw a man that she could probably ask for a dance. Drawing a deep breath, she stood up, ready to cross the place towards the man. The wedding reception was held in the estate gardens of Martina's family property. It was beautiful. They turned it into a lover's paradise. Flowers of different kinds were everywhere. The food was delicious too.

"You're going to ask someone for a dance?"

Rhian stopped and turned. She saw the man again but this time, she already knew the name, Nickolas Carter. He was introduced to everyone earlier as Peter's cousin at the start of the wedding reception. However, they were not properly introduced.

Nick shakes his head. "That's pathetic. Poor princess. No one asked you to dance? And just when I thought that it was the men who asks the princess and not the other way around." He smirked. He looked impeccably handsome in the suit. His tie matches the blue wonders of his eyes. His lips were red as cherries and looked soft to touch. His hair is short and was intentionally spiked by the hairdresser that made him looked younger.

Rhian went to him. Her mischievous grin made his smile faded. He looked cute as he stares at her. His reddish lips hang open. "Would you like to dance with me, Nickolas Carter?"

"Whatever," Nick smirked again. "Can you even touch me?" He asks when he offered his hand to her. She saw a tattoo on his wrist that is slightly hidden by the sleeves. The man has a mark of rebellion. That's what she calls the people with tattoos: rebellious.

"Did you wash your hand?"

"Lady, you're the most self-centered, rude woman I've ever known," Nick shakes his head. He dropped his hand. "It would be a shame if I leave you now considering that our friends and relatives have been curious since this day started. That would ruin your arrogant reputation. And guess what? I don't care." With that, he walked away.

Rhian's eyes widened at what he did. Nobody turns their back at her, not even this commoner! How dare he is! She followed him. They reached the gazebo where he takes something out of his pocket. "Hey, you, commoner." She called. She realized that it was a candy in his hand. He put it in his mouth. How adorable, a man still eating a candy, she thought. But she didn't want to get sidetracked.

Nick looked at her with surprise. "What did you call me?"

"It doesn't matter. Who do you think you are?"

"My name is Nick, that's who I am. I know it's nothing compared to you and your titles." Nick smirked.

"Stop smirking."

"Why?" Nick did it again.

But Rhian didn't answer him. She hated being mocked at. "Stop smirking right now." She said instead. "Take me to the dance floor."

"I just came from the men's room."

"Oh no, you didn't."

"How can you tell?" Nick challenged. He wiggled his brows.

How can Rhian tell him that she's been watching him all this time? He caught her interest and she tried not to make it obvious to everyone. "I'm leaving in an hour. Take me to dance." She ordered him again.

"Why are you leaving so soon? The party is just getting started. It will be a loss if our royal visitor will leave early." Nick said. "It was too bad, you know. This wedding became royally sensational because you attended it."

Rhian tried not to frown. "Are you mocking me?"

Nick feigned innocence. "No. Why should I?" He walked near until he was mere inches and now looking down to her. "Listen, princess. I don't have the mood to tolerate your tantrums. It must be a shame that somebody snubbed your royal ass tonight. Don't worry. I won't tell. Now, I want you to leave me alone."

Rhian glared at him for one last time. "I can't believe you're doing this to me."

Nick winked at her. "Believe it, mi querida."



>> 2


























2





Rhian threw her purse on the bed and stomped her way to the walk-in dressing room. Blast that man! She has never been humiliated like that before. She looked at the mirror. Standing five-foot-ten, with smooth brown hair and eyes like her mother's, many hailed her as the most beautiful royal of the modern times although she thinks that her sister Drew looked prettier. But she is beautiful and she intends to keep it that way. She deserved to be treated well and far more than the royal standards of protecting her. She is the beloved jewel of the king.

And beauty is not only the one that she has, she excelled herself in academics too. She recently graduated with honors from the History and Arts course at the most exclusive university in the country. She always made sure that she is above everything else.

That is why that Nickolas Carter has no right to do what he did. He's nothing but a commoner who should have showed respect and proper courtesy to a royalty.

She took off her gown and went to the connecting door towards her bathroom. The maids have already prepared her hot bath. She soaked herself in and closed her eyes. She loves this life. She loves being a princess and having everything she could ever wanted.



~~~



Rhian paused when she passed by one of the wall mirrors in the hallway of Palacio del Halta Monte. Her father requested her presence and she wanted to look her best despite the fact that she didn't want to be around him. She hated him. She blamed him for her mother's unhappiness. Even though she was too young to know what happened then, she has her means to get the knowledge she wanted about her mother.

She grew up without a mother. She never experienced having one. It frustrated her so much especially when she was in school. She never showed it to anyone but whenever she's alone in her room, she would cry, feeling empty without a mother beside her. Somehow, she found consolation with her Aunt Victoria but still, nothing is better than having a mother around. She may have sisters but they were not always around. Amelia was busy with her studies and avoiding her royal duties while Drew was occupied with dating around. Her sister is the most beautiful one, the most admired, and it added up to her frustration. She wanted attention too. She wanted people to see how beautiful she is. She wanted them to like her, too.

Except for Nick Carter. She didn't want to see him again.

She looked at herself in the mirror. She is wearing a white floral dress that hugged her curves and flowed freely down her body. She liked the way she looked now. She can go and face her father.

When she reached the south wing where the king's office is located, she went straight to her destination. The employees paved the way for her, others curtsied and bowed before her while some were brave enough to greet her. Men admired her while some women envied her.

From a distance, she saw her sister Drew, who stopped in the middle of the long hallway. She stood there, poised and looked as if she's posing for a photo. She's always beautiful. Shit.

"Are you going to Papa?" Drew asks as she started towards her. She walked like she's on a runway show. She's wearing a skin-tight jeans and haltered top, far from their father's protocol on how they should dress. Rhian suddenly felt her dress is no match to hers. Drew looked so glamorous while she looked like a young debutante.

"Yes. Why?"

"Nothing. I just spoke to him about a project. He's waiting for you." Drew tapped her shoulders and walked away.

Drawing a deep breath, she continued on her way to the king's office. Enrique Tobias, her father's longtime secretary and an old friend, greeted her when she comes in. Her father is in the inner office, behind the majestic double doors.

"He is ready to see you now, Your Highness." Enrique said. She went inside and saw her father writing. He looked up when the door opened and smiled at her. She only smiled a little.

"How are you, Adriana?"

Rhian tried not to react when she heard her full name. She didn't know why he always calls them by their full names. "I'm well, Papa. Thank you." She took a seat facing his large table. There is another empty seat beside her.

"I presume that your secretary already informed you about the project that I will be assigning to you." He gave her a folder. "And I already assumed that you didn't bring your copy so I provided an extra," he smiled.

"Why did you decide to put me in this project, Papa?" Her father wanted her to design her mother's grave. He talked to her about this before. She suggested about making the area a big special space for the late queen, there will be a garden, benches... It would almost look like a park.

"I know you would like to do this for your mother," was the king's short reply.

"I'm going to convert it into a small park like what I've told you before. I will hire some people to help me, do the landscaping, the designs..."

"I already hired topnotch specialists to help you. There is one who was recommended to me by an old friend. He's already known and became a successful landscape artist in most of the key cities here in Europe despite his young age. He migrated here after he graduated high school in the US. He's been living here for quite some time now so he knows you." Albert browsed through his files and pulled one paper out. "It would be wonderful to include him in your team."

"Really? Who is he?"

"His name is Nickolas Carter and -"

"No!" Rhian frowned at the paper in hand. Nick's smiling face is looking back at her in the resume. He's photogenic too, she thought. "I don't want him."

Albert turned to her in question. "Is there anything wrong, Adriana? Why don't you want him? You already met the man?"

"Yes, at Martina's wedding. He is Peter's cousin." Rhian's jaw clenched at the thought that she will be seeing the man again. "I don't want him, Papa."

"Why?"

"Just because," she couldn't tell her father that it was only because Nick snubbed her at the wedding. He bruised her ego and she wasn't able to handle that. And there's also the fact that she felt an attraction towards him and the mere idea of it scares her. "I just don't like him. Can you pick somebody else?"

"We can't take him off the team just because you don't like him. That's not fair."

Rhian tried to give her father a puppy-eyed look but the king didn't budge. She hates it when it was always rare to get what she wanted from him while Amelia can go to med school and pass up on her duties, and Drew can go anywhere and be the wild princess that she is. She, as the youngest one, was always protected from anything but was also always can't get away with anything. She remembered that she wanted to go to Paris to take a course on clothes design but she was not permitted by her father.

"Adriana, please understand. He's the best. He can create a paradise if we wanted it to be." Albert tried to explain.

"Whatever you say, Papa. I'll try my best." Rhian can't do anything now. She didn't even want him and the others think that she cannot handle being a professional in this very simple project. She's looking forward in finishing this.



>> 3


























3





Rhian still made it to the point that she looked her best when she set up the meeting with the head contractors and Nick Carter. Wearing a matching formal skirt and buttoned blouse, she also tied up her hair to achieve the business look that she wanted to convey. Her secretary greeted her when she entered her office.

"Are they here already?" She asks.

"Yes, Your Highness." Portia Alonzo, her secretary, replied. She's almost her age and they get along pretty well. Rhian is comfortable working with her and they would often have lunch together in her office. Her father assigned her to spearhead a number of museums, parks and tourist attractions that the government owned and her job was only to make sure that they were well-maintained. Portia helped her ease the job. She's a great assistant. Rhian reports to her Aunt Victoria, being the minister of Tourism, who also helps make her position easy.

Her heart had a slight thump when Portia answered her. That means, Nick Carter is already waiting inside the conference room. She nodded and the security ceremoniously opened the double doors for her. The room is full of men and they stood up when she entered. She immediately noticed Nick. He is the only blonde among them. Her heart beats faster. It's crazy. Why does she feels this way? Was it because she always remembers the way he snubbed her? Was it because she feared that he might do something that might embarass her again? She took a glance. He looked more gorgeous, wearing a three-piece suit and looking as if a god who came down to the world of mortals.

"Good morning, gentlemen. I'm Adriana." She greeted and took time to know each of their names and shook their hand. The last person she faced to was Nick who, coincidentally, seated at the right side of the head table. She took her seat. Her secretary took her left side. "I presumed that Enrique Tobias has already briefed everyone on the project. This is Portia Alonzo, my secretary and will also be the head accountant who will look over the finances of this project. I read your budget proposals and already approved it, except for you, Mr. Carter."

"I already have one but I know that this will only be finalized with your help." Nick replied.

"Why is that so?" Rhian hated how confident he looked like while she is very careful about her self-control. This man has some effect on her, especially when he was this close.

"I have flowers and plants in mind to put in the memorial park. There will also be a fountain. But I want to do this presentation first before I give you my proposal." Nick smiled.

Rhian didn't return the smile. "But you've already presented your ideas to the king and to Engr. Oliva." The engineer she spoke about is at the other end of the table who nodded but didn't say anything."

"Yes but His Majesty said that you're the one deciding this, not him. I've set up a meeting with you but your secretary said that your calendar was always full. This is the only chance that I have." Nick replied. "Anyway, my presentation is brief and I have already prepared several proposals based on what will be your decision."

Rhian folded her arms across her chest and leaned against her chair. It was true that Portia told him that she has a full schedule but that was because she instructed her secretary what will be her answer to every email or phone calls that Nick made to her. She wasn't ready to see him. She didn't want to see him, period. "Do your presentation."

They met each other's look for a moment before he turns away. She realized that he already set up the projector and he opened his laptop. He started his presentation while everyone listened. He also included a visual information on the flowers and plants he intends to put in the park.

Rhian realized how vital the presentation is to the project but she will not admit that to Nick. She was taking notes on the flowers and plants she wants to put. Nick also explained that he already talked with the engineer and the other contractors for the materials he will need and he gave her four folders with different budget proposals. The brief presentation has ended after an hour of discussion.

She gave him her notes. "These are some of the flowers I liked to be put in my mother's park."

Nick read them for a while. "Good choice, Your Highness. Anyway, the budget proposals are flexible."

"We can add whatever will be needed. I have back-up plans." She tells him. She reads the folders for a while. As the others waited, Nick went to his seat and explained to her the values on the proposals.

"Then we can start it soon. Right, guys?" Nick turned to others later when she finally chose a proposal. Rhian noticed the wide smiles from the other men. It seemed like something's going on with them before she arrives. She doesn't care, whatever it is. She only wants this project be done soon.

"That's the best thing I've ever heard today," Engr. Oliva replied. "We need to talk about the time frames."

It seems like everyone thinks the same way too. Rhian nodded. "Alright, Portia is also the field assistant. The materials will be ready by next week. The project will start by Monday."

A few concerns were raised first. The meeting ended two hours later after everyone were treated to an early lunch. Each men started bidding goodbye to Rhian and just like earlier, Nick came last. But he didn't shake her hand. His were hidden in his pockets. Portia already left the conference room, too. The doors were opened wide so the security can watch over her while she's alone with the man.

"Nice to see you again," Nick said to her.

She didn't say anything. She only looked at him. She decided that she can look at him forever and she will not get tired of it.

"I don't believe that you're busy these past few days. You were only trying to avoid me." Nick said with confidence.

She smiled as she shakes her head. "Oh, flatter yourself, Carter. You knew that you will be working for me when we met at the wedding." Her hands were on her waist.

Nick only smiled. He bowed to her. "Looking forward to see you again, Your Highness." Then he walked away.

Rhian wondered when she will hear him say her name.



~~~



Nick was smiling wide when his uncle saw him getting out of the car he gave him when he graduated from college. Arnulfo waited until his nephew reached him. "How is the meeting?"

"Great."

"You looked happy."

"I am." Nick sighed. "Do I looked like a dork?"

"I don't know what dork means but I can absolutely say that you seemed high on drugs. You looked ridiculous. You liked her that much and went through this just to get near her? If I were the princess, I would be scared."

"Fortunately, you're not." Nick chuckled. "Princess Rhian looked so lovely. It's just that, she thinks so highly of herself. It's kinda disappointing." He shakes his head.

"Well, just enjoy the job. It's your big break. I saw you on TV and in the papers. Your parents are coming over this weekend too." Arnulfo said. He was born in Volzenburga and is Nick's mother's elder brother. He took care of Nick when his nephew was sent by his mother to her hometown to pursue his university studies. Nick didn't complain to be away from home. He was groomed as the eldest in the family that he will be sent in Volzenburga to be trained by his uncle for his family duties. Arnulfo is the current Earl of Volzenburga and while Nick is a half-Volz, he will still inherit his mother's title someday as a Viscountess. His cousin who got married, Peter, is in his father's side so he doesn't have a title. Peter met his wife, Martina, in the States. That was a coincidence. Nick took the opportunity to ask his cousin to get him as one of the groom's men when he learned that Princess Rhian was also included in the entourage.

Despite having a noble blood running in his veins, Nick chose to be anonymous. He decided to focus on getting a job after he graduated and be good at it. It paid off, considering that he was fortunate to be employed by rich and prominent people in the nearby countries. Through hard-earned money, he co-founded a company with two of his college buddies and it became more productive when offers came pouring in. Through the word of mouth of his previous clients, his network expanded and he was offered more jobs. They celebrated their first anniversary with a bang and Nick's family were proud of what he has become. They never pressured him about his duties to the family. They understand his passion and creativity and supported him through everything.

As the eldest among the brood, he wanted to keep being a role model to his younger sisters and a brother. He made sure that they keep up with their studies and finish them. Whenever he has time, he will go home to visit his family. They would often tease him about his crush, as if it was a high school thing.

It was no secret in the family that he likes Princess Rhian. He tried not to obsess about her. He knew what she's like. It irritated him but he couldn't get away with his feelings. It confused him because he was not normally attracted to self-centered, spoiled rich women such as her. He didn't doubt about her wit and charm. He only doesn't like the way she treats others as if she's better than anyone else. One day, he will tell her that again.

"By the way, your friend Paolo called. He's meeting you tonight at The Dazzle." He heard his uncle said.

"I don't go there."

"But you do in those nightclubs in Las Vegas."

Nick smirked. "You enjoyed it too, uncle."

Arnulfo nodded. "Well, I admit they're better than Dazzle. I mean, the people here were just those members of the high society. It seemed very discriminating."

"But The Dazzle prides itself from its maximum level of security and exclusivity. That means no paparazzi." Nick said. "I'll call Paolo." He went inside the big house he considered home for many years now. He already saved enough to buy an apartment. One of these days, he will tell his uncle that he's moving out. Hopefully, his uncle will understand that he wants to live separately. Living in this mansion reminded him a lot of his family's wealth and the duties that go with it. He would like to enjoy his career and bachelorhood first before he takes on the duties.



>> 4


























4





It was a time off for Rhian after a week of working on the project for her mother's tomb, among other things. Everyday has been an exciting day for her especially whenever she comes across Nick. The conflict between them never ends. She will let him do the work but every time she will visit the site, she will keep on noticing his work. She realized that it irritates him whenever someone would try to intercept his work. He looked adorable though when he's pissed or distracted. But she was glad to get affirmation that he's aware of her presence.

Drew's birthday party is something she needs to relax. She is looking forward to see her cousins, relatives and friends. The gathering was held in the palace's gardens, near the man-made lake. It's a Hawaiian-themed party and she came wearing another one of her soft floral dresses that sways as she walks. She let her long hair down, a flower tucked in her ear.

"How's the project going?" Drew asked Rhian when her sister greeted her.

"Going well," Rhian said. "I left my gift to you in your room. It's a surprise." She tried to change the topic immediately.

Drew smiled. "Well, that's new. I never thought you as a person to be giving a surprise." She looked beautiful, Rhian thought as she listened to her sister talk. Drew is wearing a red floral assymetrical dress that gorgeously hugged her body. "- for you."

"Huh?" She didn't catch the last one that Drew is talking about.

Drew rolled her eyes. "I said, I have a surprise for you too."

"Why would you give me a surprise?" She tried not to appear excited. She was always given a surprise but what they didn't know is that she liked it better whenever her sisters would give her presents. They may not have the best relationship as siblings, but they seemed to know what each other wants.

"It's my birthday. That's it." Drew winked. "You'll thank me once you realized why I did this."

"Do what?"

Drew shakes her head. "Adriana, it was always hard to read you. Can you just say 'thank you' and let's move on?"

"Thank you." Rhian even showed her a smile then turned. But she stopped when she saw who is now in front of her. Nick Carter. "What are you doing here?" The man even had the guts to smile.

"Surprise!" She heard Drew said. Nick is her surprise? She realized that she loved the surprise. She didn't go to the site today because she was busy preparing herself for the party. She missed seeing him. Tonight, he is wearing a floral polo and white shorts. He only had slippers on his feet which is amusing. He looked like he just dropped by at the last minute to attend the beach party.

"I looked like ocean is just my neighbor," Nick chuckled. "Happy Birthday, Your Highness," he passed by her to greet Drew. They shook hands. "Thank you for inviting me tonight."

"Thank you for coming as well, Nick. Enjoy the party. Eat something. I hope you'll understand if I leave you in the hands of my sister, Rhian."

Nick turned to her and slightly bowed. "Good evening, Your Highness."

"Likewise," she watched as Drew walks away. She turned back to Nick. "There are food at the buffet table. Go away and socialize." She was about to leave when the palace photographer requested for her shot.

"Please move closer, Mr. Carter." The photographer said.

"We're not together." Rhian tells him.

Nick rolled his eyes. "Just get on with it and take a shot. Smile, princess." The shot was taken. The photographer excused himself and walked away.

"Okay. Got to go." Rhian was stopped again when her father stood in front of her. The king is not wearing shorts but black slacks, she thought amusingly. Her father also had his assistant bought a floral polo for him to wear in this occassion.

"Why don't you entertain our guest, Adriana?" Albert asks. She's about to reply when her father turned to Nick, who greeted him and shook his hand. "Do you know anyone here, Mr. Carter?"

"None, Sir." Nick replied. Rhian saw his face reddened.

Albert nodded. "My daughter will be your partner this evening. That's an order," he quickly added when he saw the look of protest from Rhian. Then he slowly smiled. "Alright. Have a good evening, you two." He went ahead.

Rhian looked at Nick and saw that it didn't seem to bother him that he is stuck with her. But for her, it means a lot. Her heart and mind are in panic. She was never like this before. She was good in controlling her emotions. She turned when the photographer came back and briefly announced that he's taking them another shot.

"Oh, Fabian. You've had one already." Rhian said.

But the old man only smiled. "Royal orders. Thank you, Your Highness, Mr. Carter."

Nick only nodded, still not saying anything. They stood side by side quietly for a while. Rhian didn't speak too. She waited for him to start a conversation. For the meantime, she scanned the place and watched the people around them. She saw her Aunt Victoria now talking with her father. They were also joined by a cousin. She also saw Kristin with her boyfriend while Juana is with Drew. They were talking and laughing about something.

The band hired by Drew's secretary started to play. Some of the guests started to dance.

She heard Nick cleared his throat. "Would you like to dance?"

"No."

Nick smirked. "I wonder why do you hate me," he said. "I can't remember anything wrong that I did to you." When Rhian still did not say anything, he sighed. He only smiled when a woman approached them and greeted them both.

"Good evening, Princess Rhian," the woman said then, turned to him. "Hi, Nick. I didn't know you're coming here."

Rhian raised an eyebrow. "You know him, Yhardley?"

The woman, whose name is Yhardley, smiled. "Yes. Nick Carter, one of the most talented person I know. And charming, too." She winked at Nick. "You promised that you'll let me ride in your car."

"I forgot. Call me some time or better yet, I'll call you. Let's go out." Nick replied. "How's the garden? Are the swans still alive?" They chuckled. Rhian felt left out as the two talked about as if they have known each other for a long time now.

"Yes, fortunately. Those were my favorites. I'm glad you were able to include those in the garden." Yhardley said. "They were beautiful. My guests always love them."

Rhian called for their attention as they seemed to be forgetting that she's there. "I think I should go and leave you," she tells them.

"No," Nick said. He turned to Yhardley. "I apologize, Yhardley. I've been rude to the princess. I just asked her to dance. And she said yes." He smiled to Rhian.

Rhian felt herself being the most beautiful woman in the place at that moment when he smiled at her. She didn't know why. It just felt wonderful.

Yhardley was taken aback when Nick said that. She didn't saw that coming. She approached Nick with hopes that she can get him away from the princess. She noticed that the two were not even talking to each other. So why did Nick say that?

"Oh, fire dancers!" Rhian exclaimed when she saw them.

Nick slightly touched Yhardley's arm. "See you later, Yhardley. I think she would rather watch the fire dancers than dance with me." Then, he gestured Rhian towards the fire show. Yhardley saw Rhian playfully smack Nick in the arm. The man laughed at something. So, something is going on between the two.



~~~



Nick laughed when Rhian showed him another plate of fruits that a waiter has served them. After the performance of the firedancers, her mood changed and she's now laughing and talking with Nick. Oblivious to the curious stares of her relatives and some guests, they found an empty table where they continued spending time on having a conversation. Rhian forgot that this man had once bruised her ego for denying her a dance. "You want us to eat more of those?" He asks her.

"Yes," Rhian chuckled. She picked a small slice of pineapple using her fork and ate it. "The unlimited supply of fruits happen only once. I asked the servants to bring us a plate whenever they see that the one we have is already empty."

"Well, this is better than drinking booze. It's healthier," he said.

Rhian watched him put a mango slice in his mouth. She never thought about spending this moment with this man. She never thought about enjoying it, especially when she's only sharing fruits with him.

"I hope we're always like this." She heard him said.

She wished but she thinks that this is going to be too much for her. Most of the time, she couldn't have what she wants and she doesn't want to expect that she and Nick will have something more together. "Well..."

"I shouldn't ask for more?"

Rhian looked at him as he puts a peach on his mouth. "It's complicated." She chose another pineapple.

"Let's just talk about something else," He smiled at her again. "Which part of the chicken do you like to eat, Your Highness?"

She laughed. "I should get used to your unusual questions." She saw the glint of amusement in his eyes. She should ignore the attraction. She likes him a lot but he seemed to be too good to be true. She doesn't normally gets this kind of blessing. "And to answer your question, I like the thigh part."

"Your favorite flowers?"

"Are you planning for our date?" She asked him instead.

"No."

She nodded. "Daisies." She felt his stare. "What?"

"Well, I'm surprised, Your Highness. Daises are the simplest and the most humble of all flowers. I'm not expecting that you, a princess, would choose daisies. They're lovely, no doubt, but there are more beautiful flowers."

"There's more about me than you think." She tells him. "There's a lot of misconception about me just because I'm a princess."

"You can't blame us, we, commoners. All we can do is look up to you as some royal who visits us every time there's an opening of a bookstore or some inauguration. I'm not mocking you about what you do," Nick immediately defended when she raised an eyebrow.

"Then why are you saying that?"

"I'm just trying to point out that I didn't know you at all. I have a misconception of you. And I'm beginning to get more interested in knowing you, princess. Because as one below your stature, I sometimes do not know or understand the things you do. And it was great to learn that as simple as knowing your favorite flower reflects something about the real you. And with that," Nick winked, "I want to know more."

Rhian felt herself blushed. She looked away. "Forget about what you learned about me."

"Don't worry. I'm not going to write a book about you, Your Highness."

"Say what you will. I think I have to leave you now." She stood up.

"Wait, Your Highness." Nick grabbed her hand.

She gasped and turned to look at his hand that is holding hers. "Excuse me but you don't have the right to do this. Let go of me." She said in an authoritative tone.

"I'm sorry." Nick let go of her. She didn't reply and left him.

Albert, who was partially watching the two, shook his head. "Now, what happened? They seemed to be enjoying their time together."

Victoria watched her niece walking away. "I don't know. Why don't you ask your stubborn daughter?"

"As if she will give me an answer," Albert saw Nick Carter leaving the table and walking towards Drew. He liked doing love matches for his daughters. It kept him busy but it adds color in his life. And those two were good together. He knew it. He couldn't play God to his daughters but he's thinking about trying to do some little manipulations.



>> 5


























5





Rhian admits to herself that Nick is good at what he does. The memorial park she imagined for her mother was almost done after only two months. It was hard for her to work with Nick because she admits it now, she is attracted to the man. After Drew's party, she was able to have lunch with him when her father invited Nick at a luncheon meeting for a new project. He's not yet finished with the memorial park but a new project is already lined up for him when he finished this one.

Looking at the man beside her, she was wondering if her father had something to do with the seating arrangement. She could smell Nick's masculine scent and she liked it.

"Adriana..."

"Huh?" She felt her cheeks reddened. She didn't realize that her father was calling her. Her thoughts were too occupied because of Nick's presence.

"After Andrea, I will be celebrating my birthday next. Victoria organized a gathering at the palace's ballroom. Ridiculous as it seems, the theme she chose was the Victorian era." Albert only turned to Victoria when his sister laughed. "Anyway, my point is I am inviting Nickolas and I want you to be his partner."

"Is that a royal order?" Rhian asks her father.

"Rhian!" Victoria shakes her head.

Albert smiled, instead of disapproving his daughter. "Yes." He turned to Nick. "I hope you don't mind. I only want to make sure that my daughter will be present at my birthday."

"Papa..." Rhian tried to argue.

"I'm honored to be invited, Your Majesty. Thank you." Nick replied. They both looked at each other, "but if Her Highness is going to be busy, I shall attend the celebration on my own."

"I didn't say that I don't want to." Rhian said. She pressed her lips together, stopping herself from saying more.

Albert smiled wider. "My decision will remain. I trust that my daughter is going to be a good hostess, the way she did at Andrea's birthday." Rhian looked away, remembering the short time she had with Nick. He almost got through the wall she created around her when she told him her favorite flower. He was as if he could read her if they continued to talk more. He wanted to know more about her. And it's one thing that she doesn't want to happen. She worked hard to project a facade for people to see. She doesn't want anyone going through the barrier she built around her.

Then there's this thing about her father and his schemes to bring them together. She hates it when her father tries to manipulate the things around him, especially his daughters. She hoped that he would not go as far as choosing the man for her to marry.



~~~



An hour later, the two found themselves inside Rhian's office. The door closed behind Nick as Rhian went towards her secretary's desk. Nick is going to get some documents from her secretary for the purchase of the remaining plants and flowers they will need to finish the memorial park. But Portia is on sick leave so Rhian tried to look for the documents after calling her secretary at home to ask where it is. She doesn't usually look for things. Nick is the only person who made her do things that are way beyond her stature, like trying to kneel down in front of the file cabinet to check the bottom drawer for the files. That is where Portia kept the documents.

"Where are your other staff, Your Highness? I never thought you will be doing that. Someone must be doing the rummaging there, not you."

Rhian glared at him. "They were outside. Besides, I can manage."

"Need help?" Nick asked in amusement. He enjoys looking at the princess and her dilemma between doing something unusual in front of him and staying firm and let him do it but at the same time, she surprised him when she decided to search for the document on her own. She had the impression of a delicate princess, one who never laid a finger to do anything but just order around but here she is, about to do kneel down on the carpeted floor to look for the file.

"No." Rhian said but Nick decided to look for the document. He will not give her a hard time. He didn't want to see her doing something that will not be according to her 'princess' standards. He browsed on the next file and finally found the purchase orders, neatly tucked in a clear folder marked Accounting and after a green divider that marked Architect Nickolas Carter.

"I found it." He stood up. He turned and bumped into Rhian's body.

"Move," she lightly pushed him away.

"Hey, where's the love?" Nick grinned as he looks at the document.

"Excuse me?" Rhian raised an eyebrow. Please, don't smile like that to me, she thought. He looked more charming, she wanted to kiss him. "Leave." She ordered and gave him a glare. When he didn't move, Rhian wondered what is going on in his mind. A smile remained on his face.

"I think this is the chance to ask what is your problem with me." Nick placed the documents on the table and faced her.

"I don't have any problems," except that you're quite charming and I'm getting more attracted to you for being the wonderful man that I found out that you are, Rhian thought. Nick still did not move. "What?"

His face went serious. He drew a deep breath. "Your Highness, can we talk, seriously? I don't want to finish this project without doing this. We didn't have a good start and I was hoping we can part off as friends after this. And I should have done this sooner," he cleared his throat, "I'm sorry, Your Highness. I was sorry that I tried to make fun of you on that day of the wedding and even gave you embarassment for denying a dance." Although he knows that she was the arrogant one at that time, it's better to bury the hatchet and move on. He wants to be her friend, too. "I'm also sorry for anything I've done, for offending you at your sister's party."

Rhian was surprised at what he did. He said sorry when she knew that she was the snob one when they first met. She was at a loss for words.

"I'm sorry, Your Highness. We only have two weeks left and I hope that, even for the time being, I will see you smile as we work together."

Rhian stared at his handsome face. "I was at fault too," she quietly said. "I apologize." It's the first time she said the words to someone that is not her family. She swallowed hard. Her pride vowed she would never do that no matter what happened, but she did.

"Can we start this thing again as friends, Your Highness?" Nick asks her.

She nodded.

Nick extended his hand. "May I introduce myself, Your Highness?" He slowly smiled. "I am Architect Nickolas Carter but you can call me Nick if you feel like you want to add more flowers in your mother's park or Nickolas if you're mad at me."

Rhian could feel herself blushing extensively. Only Nick could introduce himself like that. She really didn't know what is there in him that easily washes her defenses away. There is always an air of confidence in him whenever he talks to her. Normally, she would shun off people like that but not Nick. She was able to accept him and he was able to treat her with some respect despite her arrogance and snobbery. So, she takes his hand and shook it. "My name is Adriana, the youngest princess of the king. Everyone calls me Rhian, Princess Rhian."

She felt Nick lightly squeezed her hand. "I am honored to meet your acquaintance, Your Highness."



~~~



Nick acknowledged the security guarding outside Rhian's office when he arrived. Two days after they officially became friends, he received a call that the princess wanted to see him. He wondered why. The engineer and the other contractors were also called earlier and he still didn't ask what was going on.

When he came in, Portia greeted him congenially. She glanced at the entry leading to the other room when they heard a noise.

"What is going on?" He dared to ask the secretary quietly.

"The princess is upset. Her grandmother, Lady Marcia, saw the memorial park and she doesn't like it. She wants to change everything, even the landscape." Portia whispered. She flinched when there was another noise. She excused herself and went to the other room. Nick heard discreet voices and then, he saw the petite staff walking out. "She asked me to leave. Goodluck, Mr. Carter."

Nick only nodded. He didn't know what does Portia mean by that? He's probably going to receive the blow of Rhian's famous temper tantrums. He looked back to the entry way and waited for Rhian to come out. He heard the door clicked. He was left in the room with Rhian again. He stood still and waited.

When Rhian emerged, his heart went to her. She looked pretty upset about her grandmother's disapproval. "Portia must have already told you."

"I believe the details were not exact, Your Highness, but in reference to what Portia said, are you going to stop this just because your grandmother didn't approve? "

Rhian looked up to him. "No."

Good girl. Nick had this urge to pull her to him and wrap his arms around her but he controlled himself. "So what are you going to do, Your Highness?"

Rhian walked closer to him. She looked up to him. "I'm going to finish this."

Nick smiled and nodded. "That's a great idea." He saw her smiling back but he was surprised when she hugged him. It took him a moment to react at what she did. He slowly wraps his arms around her, just like what he's been wanting to do for a long time. He tried to soothe her feelings by slowly brushing her back.

And as if that was not enough, he felt her arms loosen. She tilted her head upwards. Their heads slowly come closer with just one aim. When their lips met for a mind-blowing kiss, there is no turning back.



>> 6


























6





Rhian stared at Nick when they pulled apart after the kiss. Both of them were catching their breath. She felt his finger traced her face and wiped the tear that streamed down her cheeks. He placed a kiss on her forehead.

"Everything's going to be alright, princess."

Rhian removed her arms from him.

"Is there anything wrong, princess?"

Rhian looked into the depths of his blue eyes and found concern and something more. And she needed him more than anything else could. Despite their constant bickerings, he was the only person who can make her look forward to every day of her life and experience how wonderful it is. "There's just one more thing," she said. She bit her lower lip. "Can you please call me by my name? Y-you never did that." Now, she said 'please' and stammered, all at the same time. Nick is indeed a man of many firsts.

He smiled at her again. She will never get tired of that. She is crazy over this man. "Rhian." The next became so intense. They kissed as if there is no tomorrow. "I admit that I actually like you," Nick said in between kisses. He cupped her face and kissed her again. "I like you so much."

She turned to smile. "I like you very much, too."

They both chuckled. "So what are we going to do about this? We might get everyone upset if they learn about this." Nick is now holding both of her hands.

Rhian kissed him again. "I don't care about other people. We can go out, have dinner. What do you think?"

"Sounds good to me," he kissed her again, "but right now, I have to go back to work. We have to go back to work. What are you doing later?" She realized how could his smoldering gaze mean so much. He's immensely fond of her.

"When?" She felt like being in cloud nine.

"Lunch time? Or dinner time?"

"I have engagements this afternoon. I can see you this evening."

Nick gave her one last full kiss in the mouth. "Take care, Rhian." And then he went out of the office. Forgetting about her grandmother and her statement of disapproval, Rhian happily went back to the other room. It is her private quarters. It has a big couch and a flat screen TV mounted on the wall. The pillows she threw earlier because of her tantrums were still on the floor. She sighed dreamily as she fell herself on the couch. She's finally going to have a boyfriend soon. And it's going to be really serious this time.



~~~



Albert frowned when he heard Enrique's report about his mother-in-law's discontent on Rhian's project. There were also reports printed on magazines, newspapers and articles that were published online about Marcia's disapproval. "What is Rhian's take on this?"

"I was told by her staff that it made her upset, Your Majesty. She called for the team leaders and after her last meeting with Architect Carter, she announced that she will not be moved by her grandmother's opinion on the project." Enrique placed a paper on the king's desk. "Here is the statement that her office has furnished for release."

Albert read the press statement. It simply said that the project commemorates the greatness and the legacy of the late queen and words coming from her grandmother were her opinion and only hers. The memorial park was designed by a daughter in the loving memory of a mother she never met.

"This is enough. They can publish it." Albert leaned back on his chair. "Have you heard about Howard's military training?"

"He will be graduating next month, Sir. Are you going to attend?"

Albert smiled. "Of course. I wouldn't miss it for the world. I'm his godfather. I can't see any wrong with that."

Enrique nodded in agreement. He remained standing to wait for further instructions from the king.

"Do you think Adriana and Nickolas looked good together?" He heard the king suddenly asked. He smiled.

"Yes, Your Majesty."

"I purposely didn't inform Adriana that Nick is a Viscount. She thinks too much of herself. She doesn't want to mingle with people who aren't noble and called them middies."

"It will be a big lesson for Her Highness if she started to like the Viscount, Your Majesty."

Albert smiled wider. "Would it be wonderful if she grows fond of the man despite the knowledge that he's only a commoner? It will surely change her. It will be for her best welfare. And this is the only way we can do to put the two together. I know Adriana. She's a stubborn woman and she doesn't want me manipulating her life. But I know what's best for her."

"But at the age of twenty-four, she needs to be informed about her betrothed," Enrique reminded the king.

Albert thoughtfully went silent. "I need to have plans, Enrique." He said. He thinks highly of the young Viscount and he's the best choice for his daughter. It doesn't matter if he is half-blood Volz. There is something about the man that made him put his trust. And he's usually right about his instincts. But he had to do something about his daughter's engagement to a Duke.

The phone rang in his desk. He answered it when he saw the caller was Adriana. "Yes, Adriana. What can I do for you?"

Enrique remained as he waited for the conversation between the king and his daughter. He saw the grin appear on the monarch's lips. Amusement glinted his eyes.

"I will be asking Victoria to prepare the kitchen staff. See you tonight, darling." Albert puts back the phone to its cradle. He looked at his most trusted servant, and friend. "Something happened between Adriana and Nickolas. The young man will be having dinner tonight. I can't miss this. I want to know what's going on. I'm also inviting you to have dinner with us, Enrique."

"Thank you, Your Majesty. This is something new for Her Highness."

"Indeed," Albert smiled. "Check my schedule. We will be having dinner at seven in the evening."



~~~



Drew found her aunt, Victoria, staring into space when she came to visit her at her office. She wants to invite her aunt to dinner tonight. She heard about this new restaurant. "Is there something wrong?"

Victoria blinked twice and then, turned to her niece. "Yes?"

"What are you thinking?"

Victoria leaned against the chair she's sitting. "It's your sister. I received a call from my brother an hour ago. He asked me to prepare dinner tonight. Adriana is going to have a guest."

Drew raised an eyebrow. "I was about to ask you out for dinner tonight. Did you know who her guest is?"

"Nickolas Carter," Victoria replied and chuckled. "It looks like the man changed her. She always looked highly about herself. I wondered why she decided to invite this commoner to dinner."

Drew shrugged. "I don't see any problem with that. Rhian was the only one who always thought that our society doesn't mingle with people below our stature." She said. "Now if this man completely changed the way Rhian thinks about herself from the others and could take care of my sister, then I am going to support him on everything."

"I didn't know that you cared so much for your sister's happiness," Victoria tells her.

"Yes, so don't tell her."

"My beautiful lips are sealed."

Drew smiled. "I wonder what happens from here."

"I want to know more about this man. I'm curious." Victoria said. "Are you coming for dinner?"

"Me? I won't miss this, Auntie. Count me in."



>> 7


























7





Nick was properly introduced to the king's sister and his daughter when he was admitted by the butler to the Sitting Room. He shook their hands. "I am honored to meet you, Your Highnesses."

Drew looked at him from head to feet. Nick is wearing a suit. This man is good-looking. He looked refined and respected as well, like some titled gentleman from the countryside. She didn't expect that Rhian would fall for a man like this. Usually, she preferred the socialites. "How much do you like my sister?" She straightforwardly asked.

"I care so much for your sister. I like her very much," Nick replied.

"Despite being a brat and a snob?" Victoria raised an eyebrow.

"Yes, Ma'am."

"I don't believe you." The elder princess quickly retorted.

Nick met Victoria's look. Despite of it, his innocent-like blue eyes sparkled and looked calm and poised with this interrogation. Drew is rather amused. Nick looked so cute, facing her aunt without a flinch. "I will show you, Your Highness," Nick tells Victoria.

"I'm hard to please."

Nick nodded. "I will take note of that, Madam." He turned to Drew when she called his name.

"So what are your plans?" Drew gave him a smile. She liked this man already. Only a few can answer to her aunt without hinting fear in them. Nick seemed to be willing and ready to prove how much he deeply cared for Rhian.

"Well, I would like to ask her out tomorrow after our work."

"Did you know that it's not easy to ask Rhian out on a date? Papa set a rule for her that whoever asks her out should also ask the permission from the king's office as well as from the security department of the palace." Victoria pointed out.

"That's how protected Rhian is." Drew added. "Being her boyfriend, you should know the protocol. It is that hard. No wonder she never had long-term relationships. Men gave up on her easily."

"Then Rhian didn't deserve them. It's not worth it." Nick replied.

"Tell me about your family." Victoria said as they all sat on the sofas in the room. When the women were seated, Nick took his seat facing them.

"I'm the eldest among the brood of five. I was born here but we moved to New York when I turned one. It's my father's hometown. My mother is a Volz."

"Is that why you're here in your mother's hometown?" Drew asks. This is interesting. Nick is a half-Volz.

"They sent me here to study in the university. I stayed with my uncle, Your Highness." Nick replied. He took a glance at the closed door, probably wondering what is taking Rhian so long.

Drew smiled when she noticed that. "You should get used to it. Rhian took a long time to get ready. She always does." Nick smiled too.

"She doesn't need that much time. She's already beautiful." He said.

"Oh, dear," Victoria rolled her eyes while Drew laughed at her aunt's reaction. Nick smiled.

"All of them said that." Drew said with amusement.

"Them?"

"The men who asked her out. They always said she's beautiful and all that. But after a few dates, they'd disappear. They can't stand the protection she gets. She's always surrounded by Papa's security. Her actions were always numbered. Can you imagine that?" But Drew didn't wait for his answer. "I don't think so. So you see, she's a real challenge."

"Well," Nick smiled. "being with her is a challenge. But I'm looking forward more into taking care of her and be beside her for everything she will go through."

The two women was about to say something when the butler announced the arrival of the king. Albert walked in with his longtime friend, Enrique Tobias, and they shook hands with Nick. "Where is Adriana?" The king asks them.

"I'm here."

Nick turned and saw her, wearing a pink dress. She looked beautiful. It took his breath away. They met halfway. She took the hand he offered. "Hi," she smiled, almost shyly.

Drew didn't show how amused she is from what she is seeing. "You're late."

Her sister turned to her. "I'm not late. You're just simply early." Then Rhian turned back to Nick. "How are you?"

Victoria looked at her brother as she ignored the new lovers. "Let's eat, Alberto. I'm starved."



~~~



Nick and Rhian were holding each other's hand as they watched TV in the Green Room, the entertainment area of the private apartments in the palace. She is leaning against his body, her feet were curled up on the couch. They are watching reruns of Friends. Officially, tonight, they are a couple. When they reached the room earlier, Nick asked her if she could be his girlfriend and she said yes. They kissed and embraced each other until they ended up in the couch, cuddling each other.

"Why didn't we go out tonight?" Rhian asked, looking up to him.

Nick stared down to her. "Because I wasn't prepared. I didn't ask your father." He replied a-matter-of-factly.

Well, he's right, Rhian thought. But since, she always defied her father because of his overprotectiveness. "Can you ask in advance next time so that we can go somewhere? It gets suffocating in this big place sometimes."

"I will," Nick smiled. He kissed her.

Rhian leaned to his chest. "Tell me something about your family." She wanted to know a lot about this man who still seemed to be a mystery to her. "I don't even know why do you work here when you have opportunities in your own country."

Nick drew a deep breath. He turned off the TV then turned to her. "I'm the eldest. I have three sisters, one being a part of fraternal twins. The other twin is my youngest brother. My family have a business in New York. We ran it. I'm partly a member of the board but I would rather work in my own company, earn a living on my own. That's why I went here to start on my own."

"You're too independent. You've done so much on your own. It made me sound like a loser."

"No, you're not." Nick cuddled her closer. "I lied when I said that I couldn't see what are the other things that royals can do. I think you're great. Being a princess is not only a title. It's a lifetime job and not everyone knows the real deal. You inspire a lot of people. You think of ways to make life better for others. You lead a lot of organizations and it does a lot and meant so much to others."

"But I also party hard," she said as their fingers laced each other's.

"So? It's not as if you're using taxpayer's money. Do you?"

"No. I own stocks and bonds and several others in which my money circulate. My father arranged that. Some of the inheritance I received when my mother died was used to make the money play in the market. I also made some investments and had businesses." Rhian ran circles in his palm. "I admit that there were times that the government pay for my expenses but that's official, especially when I go abroad to represent the kingdom."

Nick kissed her forehead and held her close. "You know, Rhian, you just have to keep doing what you want and what makes you happy, as long as it won't bother other people."

She looked up to him. "You're not going to make fun of me?"

Nick frowned. "Why do you think I would do that?"

"My exes did." Rhian bit her lower lip. Nick is really different plus, he made her special, unique and important, not only as a woman but as a person.

Nick's eyes narrowed. "Don't compare me with other people, Rhian. I told you I'm different. I don't want to keep on hearing others comparing me to what you used to have."

Rhian ran her fingers through her hair. She leaned closer to him. "Don't be mad, Nick. Promise that it will never happen again." He turned to her and stared at her. "Kiss me," she smiled and winked at him.

With a smile, Nick gave her a kiss that took her breath away.



>> 8


























8





Their relationship became known to everyone and Nick was immediately scrutinized by the people who were conservative about the royal family and by those who only wanted to gossip. There were also those who were excited to learn about the new man in the youngest princess' life. They became interested in him and his life before he met Rhian. No one came close to the truth that he's the heir to his mother's title. His uncle, on the other hand, kept his distance for Nick to enjoy the moment he's been wanting since he saw Rhian years ago. Their family was a very private one and the people who would learn about the nobles of Dorotea respect them instead of dragging their name out in the media.

The people in the palace were happy about the relationship. Among those men that Rhian has been with, Nick is different. He seemed to be the only one who tamed the palace brat. Rhian rarely goes out now. Her schedules would either include Nick in her engagements or she works at something she thinks that will make him proud of her. She particularly studies her schedule, along with her staff.

With all of these happening, the king was glad that he discovered the young man's talent that led to the wonderful events in his daughter's life. And if this will continue, he is guessing that his youngest child will be the first one to marry.

But in every relationship, there will be problems to encounter along the way. It will test the love he saw between the two and he believes that they will overcome whatever trials that found their way.

Paolo, a nobleman's son, is sitting on a chair across his table. This man is his dilemma.

"I presume that you are here to discuss about a business." He started telling Paolo.

"I was told recently by my father about my engagement to Princess Rhian when she turns twenty-four. I was thinking how could that be possible when she is having a relationship with Nickolas Carter, Your Majesty."

Albert drinks his water first. "The agremeent between our families is still there in accordance to tradition. You shouldn't worry," he said but in truth, he is concerned about Rhian and how she will feel about this. "It gets complicated unless you ask her to marry you first before Nickolas does. That's how the tradition goes. They will only know about the betrothment when they turn at the right age."

Paolo nodded. "I understand, Your Majesty."

"I believe that Nickolas is your friend. Are you going to ask my daughter despite knowing that she's with someone else already?" Albert dared to ask. He needs to know. He has the right.

The young man met his look. "I hate to say this but yes, Your Majesty. I believe that my family and our nobility is at stake here. It is an honor to be betrothed to your daughter."

"But what about love, Paolo?"

"I believe in the strength of companionship, in friendship, Your Majesty. I've seen couples together for the longest time and they have grown to love each other." Paolo said instead of answering the question directly.

Albert only nodded. He doesn't have the power to break the tradition as the credibility of his word is at stake here. It was Juliana who chose Paolo and his family for their youngest daughter when Rhian was born. Albert only wished that Nick will beat Paolo first so that Rhian doesn't have to marry this cold man who doesn't seem to have passion in his blood.



~~~



"Wow!"

Rhian's eyes beamed when she heard Nick's exclamation. "Do you like it?" She asks him when she took him to her room. In secrecy, of course. Her father will throw a fit if he learns that she allowed a man in her room. She is already turning twenty-four and still treated like a protected child. Also, she didn't have to tell Nick. For sure, he will disagree. He always made sure that he abides by the rules so that they can have the time together without further going through some strict royal protocols. That was the condition that her father gave them when Nick asked once if he could take her out to The Dazzle.

"Yes, the baby piano is so cool." Nick's eyes were focused on the lovely piece of musical instrument.

Rhian chuckled. "I thought you're referring to my room."

That was when Nick took the chance to look around. "Well, it's too big. What's this? A sitting room? Where's your bed? Your closet? The first floor of my apartment could fit in here."

"Yes. This is only the sitting room. My bedchamber is beyond that door on the left. The walk-in closet is also there." Rhian said but noticed that he doesn't care. Nick is already sitting in the soft sofa, looking at her. It's the first time that a man wasn't even interested in how extravagant her lifestyle is.

"Come here, baby." Nick called her.

She sits beside him. His arms went around her. He kissed her on the forehead.

"Forget your room. How's your day? How did that engagement with the mental facility go?" He asks her.

Rhian smiled at him. "I've had a busy day. I've had five engagements today, the last being in the inauguration of the new mental facility. I was proud that they managed to get the high-tech facilities for mental health and studies. It will help a lot." She yawned. Nick is gently caressing her hair. "How about you?"

"Same 'ole, same 'ole," he grinned. "We've got job offers abroad so I might be on a business trip anytime soon."

"That's great. Will you bring home something for me?" She purred. She is leaning on his shoulders now, her face tilted up towards his.

"Anything you want, baby."

"Well, I only want you to be home safely." Rhian said. It surprised her how she could only ask something so simple at this moment. Hearing his plans for a business trip made her missed him already. Nick made her see that simple things meant so much. She couldn't ask for anything else now.

"I will. Promise." Nick leaned down to kiss her. She instinctively kissed back and wrapped her arms around him, pulling him closer. They were kissing for a long time that she realized that he already had her lying on the sofa, her top was taken off and so was his.

"Can we go to my chambers?" She asks him. Nick looked at her, their breathing ragged. He kissed her again and without a word, he lifted her and carried her to the bedroom.



~~~



"They are waiting for you," Enrique told Rhian when she arrived in front of her father's office. She was summoned by the king for a meeting, along with her sisters. Amelia came home for a short vacation from the medical school. Drew just arrived from a state visit in South America. She is, well, at home and doing all the duties that her sisters have left behind.

"I am not late. They were just simply early," she said. She arranged her hair one last time before she gave Enrique the sign to open the door ceremoniously for her. When the door opened, she saw her sisters sitting on the chairs in front of the impeccably elaborate office desk of the king.

"You are late." Drew reprimanded her.

"I came, that's more important." She said. She greeted and kissed her father on the cheeks.

"Where have you been?" Amelia asks.

"Secret," she replied and sat on the remaining empty chair. "So what do you want from us, Papa?"

"Many things. I'll be talking about personal things," Albert wears his eyeglasses. "First, this." He showed a newspaper clipping with a photo of Drew caught in the camera and kissing another man that is not her current boyfriend.

"Oh, that," Drew chuckled. "That was only a friendly kiss. There's no need to worry because Mario is gay. We were only dared to kiss each other at the party," she tells everyone with a laugh. But her sisters looked bored.

"I don't like it. You're a princess, for Pete's sake!" Albert shakes his head in disappointment. "Stop this act, Andrea."

"I don't even know that there are cameras around, Papa."

"You can't trust any one near you about that. Your photos mean something to them. And they will talk about you until you stumble into a scandal and I don't want that to happen. Can you, at least, be considerate and act properly?"

Drew didn't say anything. She looked away from her father. "Yes, I will, Papa."

"Can you promise me on that, hija?" Their father's voice turned soft.

There was a pause. Rhian turned to her sister. Drew looked back to their father and answered, "Yes, Papa."

"Good."

Rhian shakes her head. She doesn't believe Drew. Their father turned to Amelia next.

"And you, how's medical school?" The king asks her eldest daughter. "I heard that you almost dropped out one subject. Why? You're graduating." His voice is strict as he raised an eyebrow.

"I don't have time for my last class right now. I can take it next semester. My schedule became busy since you immediately granted me the position on social welfare affairs along with Aunt Victoria. I've been telling you that I don't have time. We agreed that no duties while I'm in school. Now, I can't focus on my studies." Amelia replied.

"Then why don't you just stop studying because it won't be of use anyway?" Drew retorted. "Now you're complaining."

Amelia glared at her sister. Rhian ignored their bickering as she checked her nails. She's in the middle of the two but she would rather not get involved.

"You're just making up another excuse just to prolong your studies and avoid your duties. You know, if you really don't want it, you can just file for abdication and I am willing to take over the succession." She heard Drew tells Amelia. She tried not to smile. Yeah, trust the country to Drew. Everyday is going to be a holiday.

"Enough," their father said but he was ignored.

"You should check yourself first before dreaming of ruling this country, Andrea. I don't care if that's what you think. I wanted to be a doctor and I'm going to get it-"

"Enough!" The king's voice boomed within the walls. The two stopped in surprise. Rhian looked up and saw her father drew a deep breath and drinks the glass of water on his table. Sometimes, she wondered if he is still healthy enough to rule the country. She always perceived him to be a strong man but no one's perfect, right?

She met her father's look and then, she looked away. She hated him for hiding everything about their mother. She was too young to remember the late queen and when she thought she could turn to her father, she realized that he was able to erase all the facts about her mother. It was as if she never existed. It was as if, he really didn't love his wife at all and threw everything away to remind him of her. Well, except for the tomb but that was just an elaborate piece of land where her mother was buried. She wouldn't find any secrets there.

"Alright, I'm giving you full-time to finish medicine but after that, I want you to promise, Amelia," Albert's stern voice was focused mainly to his eldest daughter, "I want you to promise me that you're going to perform all your duties and will undergo all the military trainings without hearing a complain."

"That's easy!" Drew cried.

"Yes, Papa," Amelia said at the same time.

Rhian noticed how Drew's exclamations were attributed by her frustrations to see their sister start her duties as the heiress to the throne. And it doesn't help that their father is tolerating Amelia when he knows that she will not even be able to use her profession because of her duties as queen-in-training.

Drew leaned back on her chair, glaring at their father.

"Yes, Drew?" He turned to her.

"I don't like it." Drew voiced out her thoughts. Among them, she is the most expressive with her emotions.

"Don't worry. There are many things in store for your sister," Albert said and then looked at Rhian. "What is this I heard that your boyfriend stayed in your private apartments the other night?"

Rhian felt her sisters suddenly turned to her. Alright, it wasn't as if they were still virgins, she thought. "True, Papa. We slept together." Let him eat that.

"Mamma Mia!" Drew chuckled.

"Rhian..." Amelia shakes her head. "You know that it's not allowed."

"Of course, side by side, nothing more intimate," Rhian added, ignoring Amelia. She will not admit that they did more than cuddling. They didn't need to know that. "But then, with someone as good-looking as Nick, who could not resist on kissing him?" She said, still trying to hide her amusement.

"I agree. Your boyfriend is hot." Drew fanned herself.

Albert shakes his head. "I don't know what to say," for the first time since the meeting started, he chuckled.

Rhian tried not to smile when she saw that. Somehow, it felt good seeing her father's smile although she actually intend to piss him off.

"But that doesn't mean I am going to be okay with that. I'm going to call Nickolas to talk about the rules at home." Albert said, suddenly switching to serious mode again.

"Don't do that," Rhian blushed. It will be embarassing that her father will talk to her boyfriend about how protected she is, and probably he will also tell him something about the 'birds and the bees'.

"I will do that." Albert said.

Rhian knew that she doesn't have any say over the matter once the king was firm with his decision.



>> 9


























9





Months later...



Nick was arranging his table inside his room in his uncle's house when he saw something inside the drawer. It is a velvet box. And he knew so well what is inside and who gave it to him. He is packing the remainder of his things since he already moved in to the apartment he bought. He was glad that his uncle never had problems with it. He smiled as he takes the box and opened it. A ring with cuts of diamonds was found inside.

"Having some plans on what to do with it?"

Nick turned and saw his uncle. He smiled. "Well, I just think that I already found the person I will be giving this." He looked at his mother's heirloom and then back to his uncle.

Arnulfo walked towards him and looked at it. "The princess?"

"Yes, uncle." Nick stared at it. "I know it's too fast but I already want to prepare the moment I will propose to her."

"What if she refused?"

"It will be hurtful but I'm going to respect her decision." Nick sighed. "This is crazy but wonderful," he chuckled. "I'm falling so fast."

Arnulfo smiled. "Well, I'm not surprised. You're ever the romantic one. You've well-treated all the women I've known that you went out with. I'm sure that you have the chance with Princess Adriana. If she didn't accept your marriage proposal, it's her loss."

Nick had been thinking about the ring when he went to see Rhian. He just came home from Spain and after moving his things from his uncle's house and cleaning his apartment, he went to the palace. He received the news that Rhian's sister Amelia graduated from med school that morning, something that everyone has been waiting for since performing her duties was long overdue.

He was asked to wait in the Sitting Area while Rhian was being called. The ring is in his pocket and he could feel his hands getting sweaty as he waits for his girlfriend. It will be almost two years since they first dated and he cherished every moment with her. He is also aware of the things that other people said about their relationship but he liked it best whenever he hears that Rhian is now a better person, not just because of him and the way he takes care of her but also for the inspiration he conveys and the love he feels for her. He's proud of her.

He heard quiet steps somewhere in the carpeted hall, hurried steps, and then it stopped. He smiled. Rhian is here. She probably paused to glance herself in some glass mirror first. She's always the vain one, always makes sure that she looks beautiful. But he already saw her in her worst times and he liked it seeing her that way, makes her more human and somehow, normal. He doesn't care if she looks ugly and dirty.

When he saw Rhian turned in the corner, he felt the ring in his pocket. He watched her excitedly welcomed him and kissed him on the lips.

"Darling, I missed you, too. It's only a weekend but," Nick smiled. "It seems like forever." He finished.

"How are you?" Rhian asked. She sets aside a few strands of his hair off from his face. He loves it every time she does that. She likes to take care of him in every simple thing that she could.

"I'm fine," Nick smiled again. "And you? I heard that Amelia has finally graduated."

Rhian frowned. "I don't care."

Nick stared at her. "Rhian, you're being childish again. Why did you and Drew hate her so much? You're sisters. Your family is the only thing you got and not the riches that you already have. Those are only material things. Besides, Amelia is a nice person. And I understand that aside from being a princess, she also wanted something that identifies what she would have wanted to be. Let's give her that." Before being a Viscount, he is a landscape architect. He wanted an identity that is apart from the title he inherited from his mother. He understands Amelia and the situation she's into. "It will make her happy. So, there's no stupid reason to hate your sister, Rhian." He continued as Rhian still didn't say anything.

They turned when someone cleared his throat to get their attention. Nick takes Rhian's hand as he walked towards the king. "Good day, Your Majesty. It's good to see you fine and well today." They shook hands.

"Likewise, Nick." Albert smiled widely. "I'm just passing by. It's good to see you back. How's the project in Madrid?"

"It's great, Sir. I mean, I may have only been given a month to do it but it's rewarding to see the finished product and the people liked it."

"I've always believed in your talents, Nick. I've been hearing positive feedbacks too." Albert nodded. "By the way, I'll go ahead. I'm on my way towards a meeting. Welcome back, Nickolas. And it's good to see Rhian so happy again." He gave his daughter a knowing look. Nick shook hands with the king again and then left. He remembered passing by the king's office earlier and laid out his plans of proposing marriage to Rhian. He didn't expect that the king will be very happy about it. He expressed his support to them.

Nick gripped Rhian's hand. "I want to tell you something, Rhian." There goes the fast beating of his heart again. Does it always have to be like this, that proposing could be so nerve-wracking?

Rhian turned to him and unexpectedly met his kiss. When they pulled back, she gasped in surprise when she saw the ring he showed her. "I love you, Rhian. I love you so much and I want us to be together forever. I need you and I want to take care of you and be beside you always. Will you be my wife? Will you marry me?"

"Of course!" Rhian smiled despite the tears. Nick could see how happy she is. After putting the ring on her finger, he kissed her.

"Advance happy twenty-fourth birthday." He said.

"This is the most wonderful gift I've ever had." Her arms went around his neck.

"The ring?" He chuckled. Yes, indeed.

But Rhian shook her head. "I mean, the promise of forever with you is the most wonderful thing I've ever had for my birthday. I could not ask for more, not even the riches in the world."

"Good girl," he kissed heragain. "Are we going to tell them that we're engaged?"

"Not yet. I want to plan the surprise. And I want to have you by myself first. Once they learned about our engagement, they are going to be all over you and I might not have the time to -" Rhian paused when he kissed her again.

Nick cupped her face. "Remember this, sweetheart. We will always have the time alone for ourselves. You, first and foremost, are my first priority."

"Thank you."

Nick held her in his arms for his tight embrace. He will not let her go. It's been a long time since he dreamt of this day, since the first time he saw her during their state visit in New York when they were younger. He was only in high school but his heart already found the person who could make his heart beat, and that's only for her. And now that they are getting married, everything will fall into place. Life is almost perfect.



~~~



Albert is grinning from ear to ear when Victoria entered his office. She sat on the chair without waiting to be offered. "Why did you call me, brother?"

"Adriana has been proposed."

"By which one?" Victoria suddenly looked alarmed. She knows about the impending agreement between the king and Paolo and she wished that Nick will beat Paolo into asking Rhian for marriage. It was like a competition and whoever wins gets the princess. When her brother smiled, she knew the answer.

"Nickolas, the Viscount of Dorotea."

"Well, it would be a shame that it was a Viscount who has beaten the Duke into this." Victoria smiled too. "But I'm glad it is Nick."

Albert nodded. He took the glass of scotch on his table and drinks from it.

"Any more things to say, Alberto?"

"Howard is back and he expressed his desire to marry Amelia." Albert began telling her his daughter's plans to visit her grandmother Marcia in New York before she assumes the duties as the heiress to the throne. "They are leaving tomorrow and I thought that Andrea should come with her sister. This might be the right time to know more about her grandmother."

Victoria didn't comment. Her lips were firm. Albert knows that she hates Marcia, for being the gold digger and opportunist that she is.

"I would rather think about Adriana's engagement than that old woman." She tells her brother. She stood up and excused herself to go out of the room. Albert was left thinking once again, on how is he going to deal with Paolo now that the Adriana has agreed to marry Nick.



~~~



Her Majesty Queen Juliana Amelia Rosa
A loving wife
A wonderful mother
A compassionate leader
A true servant of God


Rhian stared down to the beautiful tomb that she arranged for her mother. She knew enough that her mother was not a saint, based on what she found about her through years of research. It was hard, especially that their father tried to bury the past. She hated him for that. They, as children, deserved to know more about her mother, especially her. She was still a baby to know her.

"You made this a beautiful haven for your mother's memory."

Rhian turned and saw a man. She recognized him as Paolo, a Duke from one of the noble families in the country.

"Thank you. Nick contributes a lot to make this beautiful."

Paolo only smiled. Hands on his pockets, he went to stand beside her. "I came here to inform you about the arrangements made between our families for your royal tradition."

"Huh?" Rhian looked at him. "What do you mean?"

"I'm your betrothed."



>> 10


























10

Rhian looked at Paolo in surprise. "I don't understand. What tradition? I can't possibly be engaged to you." She tried to see any form of emotions in this handsome man's face but she could not see anything. Paolo looked at her as if he only came to close a business deal. She wanted to scream furiously. How could her father manipulate her this way? She thought the king liked Nick.

"We've been set up for marriage at the time that we were born. I couldn't wait any longer and I don't want to beat around the bush by letting this go further."

"I can't marry you. I'm sorry." She shakes his head.

"Then I guess it will ruin your father's word of honor. Your denial will cause shame in your family and damage in ours." Paolo said. "Of course, I will not let that happen."

Rhian frowned. "You have no right over me, Mister. You also don't have the right to tell me what to do. I can't marry you. I'm already engaged." She watched as his jaws clenched. She turned and saw her bodyguards around. She will not be harmed by this man.

"But you will do the tradition for the sake of your family," Paolo said. "Remember my words, Your Highness. Think about it."

"Don't tell me what to do."

Paolo smirked.

"Is there any problem here?"

Rhian gasped when she saw Nick. She went to him and took his arm.

"Paolo," Nick smiled. "What brings you here?"

"I came to visit the queen's tomb, Nick."

Rhian looked from one man to another. "You knew him, Nick?"

"Paolo is my friend." Nick turned to her and saw the look of anger in her eyes. "Why? What's going on?" He turned to Paolo. There was confusion in his eyes as he looked at his friend. They have known each other for years. He sensed that something was going on before he reached them.

"You didn't know this, Nick, since you're not even a noble. We have family traditions and there is something that binds me and the princess."

"What tradition?" Nick took Rhian's hand and held it tight. Why does he have a feeling that things are not going to be good?

"I hate to say this but we are betrothed. We're getting married."

"No!" Nick put Rhian instantly behind him, as if he will never let her go, will never even let Paolo see her. "Paolo, we're friends. Why are you doing this?"

"I'm doing this for my family. This is not about you, or me, or the princess, Nick." Paolo replied.

Nick's chest was heaving with anger. "No. Don't do this. I love her, Paolo."

"I don't care."

To everyone's surprise, Nick punched him hard until he was knocked down on the trimmed grass. Rhian tried to stop him but she stepped back when she saw Paolo stood up and poised to retaliate.

"Stop! No!" Rhian called her bodyguards. They pulled the two apart. She hugged Nick. "Let's go."

"Our friendship is over." Nick glared at Paolo. "Go and find somebody else." He took Rhian's hand and pulled her away. She held her head high as she walked through the bodyguards that now surround them. They reached the palace in a few minutes. When they reached her private apartments and were left alone, that's when she bursted her emotions. Nick took her in his arms and let her cry.

"How could Papa do this to me? I hate him! I hate him!"

"Shush..." Nick embraced her tighter.



~~~



Rhian stared hard and long at her father when he answered her question about Paolo. "This is not a joke?" She asks her father. The next day, she immediately went to see him even without setting an appointment. She is so mad that she doesn't care about any formalities. After all, he is her father. Being the king only came second in situations like this. Now, she stood in front of the king's desk while her father seemed relaxed. How could he be calm at times like this? She's engaged and then a Duke came and was trying to claim her for himself and his family's traditions. That was so unnerving!

Albert met her challenging look. "I do not jest, Adriana."

Rhian's jaw clenched as she tried not to cry. How could her father manipulate her like this? Why did he thinks only about himself?

"So what is going to happen now, Papa? Seriously, I don't want this to happen. I'm already engaged. I can't leave Nick."

"Our family's honor is at stake here."

"And that was what compelled you to marry Mama," Rhian said. "I don't want to be like you. I don't want my life to be like you. I don't want to be alone. I don't want to always live my life fulfilling my duties in this family because first and foremost, I'm a person just like any other. I want to be normal. I'm so unfortunate to be born in this family!"

"Adriana!"

Rhian's look never wavered from her father. "I hate you, Papa." A tear fell down her cheeks.

There was sadness in Albert's eyes, too. It was sad to utter the words too because deep in her heart, she loves her father. She hates to be in this situation, that was what she means but she couldn't help hating her father at this moment when he told her that it was a tradition and he had no choice. Did her sisters know about this? Are they engaged to some stranger too? Rhian panicked when she saw her father gasped aloud, eyes wide, and clutched his chest.

"Papa!"

Her loud outburst was probably heard by Enrique as he went to peek in the office. He saw the king being held by his daughter. He immediately called the palace medical staff then went to give first aid to the king, who was having a heart attack. Rhian, who was kneeling beside her father who now lies on the carpeted floor, was crying profusely.

The medical staff arrived and took him immediately.

"Papa, I'm sorry..." She watched as her father was carried away.



~~~



Rhian felt the tight grip of her friend's hand. Martina, who happened to be visiting the country with her husband after she gave birth, rushed to see her when she heard what happened to the king. Albert had a mild attack and although he survived it, the doctors were monitoring his health now and advised for non-rigorous activities from now on.

"What are you going to do?" Martina asks her. Rhian told her friend about her dilemma and being the cause of her father's heart attack. She felt so guilty for what happened and she realized how much she loves her father after all. Growing up without her mother, she feared to lose her father too.

"I'm confused. I want to marry Nick but I can't disappoint my father now. I realized that I love him and I can't lose him. Not now..." Rhian replied.

Martina pulled her into a hug. "It's hard when a tradition is involved; harder when your father is the king."

"I know." Rhian sighed. "I want to please my father. I don't want to cause him any more pain. I don't know. Everything's so hard."

"Can you try talking to Paolo about this?"

"I'll try." They turned when the door of Rhian's room opened and revealed Nick. Martina stood up to greet her cousin-in-law.

"I'll leave the two of you to talk. I'll just be at the Blue Room, waiting." Martina said after she kissed Nick on the cheeks.

"Thanks, Martina." Nick said. Martina only smiled and left the room. He turned to Rhian. "I heard about what happened. I'm sorry that I wasn't here immediately. I've had problems with the company."

Rhian looked at him as he sits beside her. "I'll talk to Paolo."

"No!"

"I'll talk to him about getting out of the agreement."

She started crying when Nick enveloped her in his arms. "You're not going to him, Rhian. As far as we are concerned, the matter is closed. You're going to marry me, not him."

"And what about Papa? He's in the hospital because of me."

"Let me talk to your father."

Rhian looked at him.

Nick pulled away and studied her face. He stared at her. "You don't believe me. You don't trust that I can talk to your father about this." He said it more as a statement.

"It's not that. It's just that," Rhian drew a deep breath, "I know my father. I'd like to talk to him myself to convince him that I want to marry you, not Paolo-"

"But you're even doubting about the outcome if you will talk to your father - again." Nick let her go.

"I'm sorry, Nick."

"Tell me the truth about the situation, Rhian."

Rhian drew another deep breath. "My father is firm about the tradition. He will not ignore the agreement made. I was so mad that I said things that aren't good. It affected him that's why he's in the hospital." She wiped her tears. "I'm sorry, Nick. I feel responsible for this. I'm going to talk to him again."

"But if he didn't budge, you will marry Paolo," Nick stated.

"Yes."

Nick stared at her long and hard. "No..."

"I have no choice." Rhian tried to reach for him. Nick took her hands.

"I'm willing to fight for you, Rhian. I won't permit this." He wiped her tears and pulled her in an embrace. "We will fight for this. We can do this." Rhian can only nod. She wished that this will be over soon. She only wanted to marry Nick. Why does it have to be complicated?



>> 11


























11

It was after a week when the two was finally given the opportunity to face the king and state their problem. Albert is looking from one to another. Nick looked so sure and ready unlike Rhian, who seemed apprehensive about the situation. There was fear in her eyes.

"I think I already know the reason you are here," Albert tells the couple as soon as the doors were closed and they were alone.

"Your Majesty, I am respectfully asking for your daughter's hand in marriage." Nick said without preamble and made Rhian gasped.

"I cannot give the permission to you," the king said.

Nick stopped and looked at the king. How could one disagree with the king without getting himself in trouble, he desperately thought.

"Papa, please. I love Nick. I can't do this tradition." Rhian turned to Nick. "I can't."

Nick found his confidence again when he met her look and she squeezed his hand. "Your Majesty, I'm begging you, if I must. I love your daughter. I'm going to take care of her."

"How far can you go into this thing that you're asking me?" Albert asks him.

Nick glanced at Rhian first before turning back to the king. "I'm taking her away, Your Majesty, if that's what it takes."

"Nick!" Rhian exclaimed in surprise. The thought of leaving the palace and turning her back from being a princess is something she is not prepared to do. They did not talk about this. Eloping is far from her mind. Her heart beats fast as she thinks about it. She shakes her head. "You can't..." She quietly told him. She didn't want to let go but she had reasons. She cannot leave this family, no matter how many heartaches it caused her.

Nick turned to her. "What?"

"I'm a princess. I can't be any other but this."

Nick's jaw clenched. He felt betrayed. "Rhian..."

"I can't elope with you if that's what you are planning."

Nick let go of her hand. "I guess from the start, you're not really this serious about our relationship. I'm willing to do anything for you. I love you." He turned to the king. "My apologies, Your Majesty, for behaving so forwardly. I realize that I do not have the right to ask for anything." He glanced at Rhian then back to Albert.

"Nick..." Rhian tries to say.

"May I be excused?" Nick asks the king. He cleared his throat. No, he can't cry right now, no matter how it hurts.

Albert stared at him for a while. "Yes, you may, Nickolas."

Nick turned to Rhian, who only stood there and not doing anything. "My mind can't seem to understand why you are doing this, Rhian. I wish you well. I hope you will be happy soon." But he did not receive any response from her. He felt his chest tightened. He walked towards the door. As if he was detected, the doors opened before him. When he passed through, he knew there is no way to turn back to her. She could not love him in the same way that he does. And it hurts so much.



~~~



It was until weekend when the news about their break up came out in the media. Nick is in Paris at that time when his uncle told him the news. He puts down the mobile phone. His brother, Aaron, who happened to be in Paris for a business trip looked at him.

"Uncle Artie," Nick said when he saw the question in Aaron's eyes. "I'm on the news in Volzenburga. They learned about the breakup."

"What are you gonna do?"

Nick shrugged. "Nothing. I'm trying to be numb. I'm trying to get away from it."

"You're staying here in Paris?" Aaron shakes his head. Sometimes, he could not imagine his brother's nomadic lifestyle. Ever since he went to live in Volzenburga, he also learned about going to and from different places in Europe, as if he could not settle down in one place. Until he started going out with the princess. Everyone in the family thought she could make Nick settle in one place.

"No. I bought a pad in London. I think I'll settle there for a while until things would cool down. Then I'll probably go back to Volzenburga to assume my duties. Uncle Artie already started giving me a training." Nick took a swig of his beer.

"I'm sorry to hear about the breakup."

"There's no need to be. There's no point to be, Aaron." Nick looked around. A woman approached them. She is so skinny, Nick thought she could be blown away in case strong winds go by.

"Hello, monsieurs." The woman said in a heavy accent but her eyes were set on Nick.

"Yo, wassup?" Aaron grinned. But the woman ignored him. He sighed. He was no match to Nick when it comes to women that sometimes, he doesn't want to be around his brother.

Nick smiled and patted his lap. The woman eagerly sat on him, her arm on his shoulders. "Why are you alone on a Saturday night, hmmm?" He nuzzled.

"I'm not alone. I'm with you."

Aaron rolled his eyes. He should have risen from his chair by now but he is amused and would rather stay. He watched the petting between the two. "Hey, you missed a spot." He joked and pointed at the woman's other side of the neck. Nick grinned and turned to kiss that side. He glanced at Aaron and winked.

"Nick, you're drunk," Aaron muttered. He stood up and went to the bar. He couldn't stay in their table any longer. If Nick wants to drown himself away from his problems by getting it on with another woman, he knew enough not to bother him, especially when he is drunk.

"Monsieur, you better warn your companion," the bartender said on the other side of the counter.

"Huh? You mean, my brother?"

The bartender nodded. "He's Nick Carter, right?" Aaron gave him the affirmation. "Well, this is not the most exclusive place in Paris. He just broke up with a princess."

Aaron muttered his thanks and walked off. The bartender sure knows how to gossip. He went back to his brother who is still busy with the woman.

"Time's up, brother. BJ called. There's an emergency." He lied. He knew his brother. Nick is quick to the rescue when it comes to their sisters.

"BJ?" Nick pushed the woman away and stood up, almost making the woman fall down on the floor. "Oops, sorry." He swayed towards Aaron.

Aaron pulled his brother towards the exit. "We need to get out of here, bro. Come on."



~~~



Albert heard his daughter drew another deep breath for the nth time. He knew how Rhian sacrificed a lot for this tradition. It was supposed to be a test for her relationship with Nick but her faithful duty as the country's princess won over. He was on the verge of telling her that he can arrange the damage if she turns her back now when the door opened and the page announced the arrival of Paolo and his family.

Paolo went in first, followed by his parents, brother and sister. Introductions were made. Albert invited everyone to take their seats in the Sitting Area.

"The news about the princess' breakup with the commoner is still around. I would like to suggest if we can get married after six months." Paolo said after sometime when they were talking about the nuptial arrangements.

"I agree." Rhian said.

Albert nodded. He also noted how Paolo called his friend 'commoner'. It was unlikely for a man to talk like that to his best friend.

They talked more about the wedding preparations and the future living arrangements of the newlyweds. Like an obedient child, Rhian only agreed to everything. Albert noticed the lack of life in her eyes and it hurt him. This should not be happening. He only wanted his daughter to be happy and he knew that he was not doing anything to rectify the situation.

He turned when his daughter stood up.

"I'm going to my room. May I be excused?" Rhian asks them.

Albert sensed that something is wrong. He stood up, as the rest followed. "Yes, hija. I know you're tired. Take your rest."

"I'll take her to the private apartments." Paolo volunteered.

Rhian didn't say anything as she walked ahead. Paolo quickly followed behind while the king watched his daughter leave the Renaissance Room.



~~~



Rhian wished somebody would shot her now. She realized how frightening it is to marry the man she does not know, or even love. She did not want this to happen. She had to get away. She missed Nick.

"Wait, Princess Rhian."

She tried not to smile at that. She still did not permit Paolo to call her in her first name despite the fact that they are getting married. She didn't miss the term he used pertaining to Nick earlier, 'commoner'. How arrogant.

Paolo reached her and walked alongside her. "I want you to know that we are not yet married and as such, I can still do anything I want." Rhian tells him.

"I'm somehow expecting that." Paolo said. Rhian didn't reply. "I'm also expecting you to avoid Nick as much as possible-"

"We already broke up. There's no need to tell me that," she interrupted him. How is she going to live with this man? She wondered.

"I'm only trying to make it clear." They reached her private apartment. She faced him.

"You can't go beyond here. I want you to know that even though we are getting married, you don't have anything to say about my personal matters. We are getting married, in name only."

"I know," Paolo met her look. "And with such, I'm expecting loyalty from you. I don't want you having another man aside from me. You're going to bear my name as my wife. I expect respect for that."

"Are you ordering me to do that?"

"Yes."

Rhian gave him a glare. "You can always count on that." She turned and went towards the large hall, the start of her territory at her private residence in the palace. She held back her tears. It is her fault that she is in this situation. She wished she could have someone to confide in but her sisters were busy with their own lives. Drew just got home and sulking in her own private apartments on the other side of the palace. Her sister is brokenhearted as well. And then Amelia is in New York with their grandmother.

She didn't have anyone. Rhian felt so alone.



>> 12


























12

Rhian silently followed her sister Drew towards the room where their sister Amelia is. She ran her hand to her long wavy brown hair. She felt the flower near her ear. She is dressed up for Amelia's quiet wedding with the Count of Conspica, Howard. She fondly calls the count as Howie, just like everyone else. Ever since she met the man a few years back, she felt at ease with him. It was as if she looked up to him like a family, a brother she never had. She sees him most of the time at the employees' area of the palace every time he is around to see the king, his godfather. And whenever he looks at her, she sensed the disapproval in his eyes, like a brother reprimanding his sister for whatever she did at that time. But she couldn't be mad at him. Instead, she had the urge to be just around him. She is happy that he is going to be formally part of the family now and Amelia is a lucky woman. She is excited that her sister is pregnant too. Rhian is going to be an aunt soon.

They entered the room and saw her beautiful sister. Pregnancy is still unrecognizable. Amelia looked lovely and radiant with her designer gown. When she saw them, she smiled. Amelia is standing beside their father and they were talking about something she could not hear. She looked around the room. Everything seemed to reflect the happiness that her sister feels in her special day. Rhian envied her. She hoped for the same thing in her own wedding day but that is not going to happen now. Thinking about it made her want to cry again. She held herself back from showing emotions. She is famous for that and she's going to take advantage of it.

Amelia called for them to come. They met halfway. She hugged them when she reached them.

"Don't worry about me. I'm alright," Drew said, pertaining to her recent heartbreak. They seemed to be in good terms, Rhian noticed. It is better than before where she always witnessed the bickerings between her sisters. Drew looked at her.

After hugging Drew, Amelia turned to her.

"Best wishes," Rhian said without any hint of expression on her face. She put her best effort not to choke with tears. She is happy for her sister and new brother-in-law but she also felt sad for herself.

Amelia took her hands. "Thank you but I wish more for you. I got my happily ever after, I wished for the same with you too. I love you, Rhian." They looked at each other for a while. Amelia didn't know how much she felt right now. Her chest tightens for every growing minute. Amelia took her on the side, away from Drew and their father. The two stepped away, giving them privacy. Rhian guessed that her sister wanted to part some words of advice too.

She did not say anything. She only stared at her beautiful sister.

"Go for the one you love, if that's what it takes to find happiness. I've seen how much you love the guy. I hope things will be alright with you soon." Amelia added. Rhian looked at her, trying to hold back the tears in her eyes. Is she hearing it right? Amelia wants her to go for the one she loves and there is only one person.

"It's complicated, Mia. I would love to have him back in my life but it won't be easy." She gripped her sister's hand. It felt good to hold her sister, like gathering some strength from her to continue living her lonely life.

Amelia embraced her. "It was never easy for us. I struggled to get my happiness too. And I have a big dilemma right now. I'll tell it to you as soon as I'm done with this wedding. Maybe, you can help me." Her sister whispered.

Rhian's eyes were wide when she pulled back. "You're trusting me with a secret?"

"You're my sister. Why not?" Amelia kissed her on the cheeks. "Let's go. I have a wedding to do. My groom is waiting." She smiled. Rhian smiled back. This moment means everything for her. This is going to be a new start for them.



~~~



Rhian watched as her new brother-in-law takes her sister out in the balcony, overlooking the guests at the wedding reception. They sat together and Howie puts his arm on his wife's shoulders. She saw Drew and their father discreetly looking around. They probably wondered where did the newlyweds have gone to.

She watched Howie and Amelia. They were having a conversation. Amelia is leaning against her husband. Howie tried to remove his crown. Amelia said something to him. Moments later, Rhian saw them laughing. She envied the bond that they have.

Rhian walked away from the crowd and towards the gazebo, a few distance from the wedding reception. She wanted to be alone. She feels lonely being there.

The wind blew softly. She pulled her shawl closer to herself when she felt the cold. If Nick is there, he would wrap his arms around her and then he will sing to her, like putting a baby to sleep. Her chest tightened at the thought. She wiped a tear that fell.

"They looked so happy."

She almost jumped in surprise at the voice behind her. She quickly turned around and saw Nick. Excitement filled her. He is standing at the entry way of the gazebo. He did not attempt to walk towards her.

"Why are you here?" She found her voice to ask.

"I was invited."

Silence came. Rhian didn't know what to say. She only looked at him, memorizing his face, as if this is her only chance to see him. He only stood there.

"Did you greet the newlyweds already? I can take you to them and -"

"I already did, a while ago before they went to 'hide' in the balcony." He interrupted her, connotating the word 'hide' with his fingers, creating an imaginary apostrophe.

"I see..." She quietly said. What is she going to say to make him stay? She racked her brains for anything. Her mind is in panic. She wanted him to stay. She is waiting for him to say something. She didn't know what approach she had to do to make him stay.

"Goodbye, Rhian."

She did not get the chance to say anything when he quickly disappeared. He walked away and got lost among the crowd. "Nick..."

There and then, she decided that she had to go for the one she loves, as what her sister told her earlier. It is the only way to her happiness and she had it once, now lost, but she is going to have it again.

She is going to London.



~~~



The king knows that Rhian discreetly went to London to look for Nick. When she informed her father of her plans, the king did not say anything but gave her the access to use the royal jet. By afternoon of the same day, she is already in London. Her mission is to go to Nick's pad.

But she failed to talk to him because just before she announced her arrival, she heard him talking with someone. The door to his pad is slightly open and there is someone besides Nick inside.

"Stop that, Nick."

"Leave me alone, Leslie. Why are you here in London?"

Leslie. Rhian tried to think... It's probably his sister, Leslie.

"I have a training. Hey!" Rhian heard something fell on the floor. "Nick. I'm gonna tell this to Mom and Dad."

"I don't love her anymore. I don't love her anymore. I don't love her anymore." Nick kept on repeating. His words were slurred. He is drunk. There was a sound of a bottle smashed on the wall.

"Nick. You're drunk. Let me take you to your room."

"You know what, Leslie? I can forget her. I can find someone else that is more wonderful, more beautiful, sexier than her." Nick laughed. "And then I'm going to marry her. It doesn't matter..." he paused, "I'm not after a princess. I can make her a princess or a countess. I can offer that." He paused.

"Alright, that's enough. The bitch doesn't love you. Let's move on. I'll take you to your room."

Rhian no longer hear anything. She assumed that his sister has successfully taken her brother in his room. She jumped in surprise when the door opened wide and revealed a blonde woman with eyes like Nick's.

"Whoa!" Leslie was surprised as well. "Wait, are you the princess?"

"I'm Rhian." She simply said.

Leslie nodded. "I'm Leslie, Nick's sister." They shook hands. "Can you please go?"

Rhian did not expect that. "Excuse me?"

"You broke my brother's heart. I want you to go."

"I came here to apologize and ask him if he could take me back."

"No way, that would never happen."

"You don't have the right to say over this matter -" Rhian stopped when Leslie raised an eyebrow.

"You didn't fight for what you should be fighting for, princess. You had the chance and you lost it. Nick was hurt. You don't know how he has gone through so much. You're very cruel. And I want you to go away."

"No. Let me get inside and talk to him."

Leslie shakes her head. "No. He's drunk. He's already asleep." Then she slammed the door shut. She even locked it. Rhian knocked.

"Leslie, please." She never said that word until now. Nick is indeed a man of her many firsts.

But no answer came from the other side of the door. Rhian bit her lower lip. She is not going to give up. She is going to see Nick some other time.



>> 13


























13

Rhian drew a deep breath as she listened to her sister, Amelia, work around in her room while she is in the bathroom. She has just finished her bath. When she went out, she saw Amelia chose some comfortable clothes for her to wear. She also prepared the medicines her sister had to take after the food she ordered from the servants arrived. Rhian's mouth watered upon the smell of food that has been arranged on the coffee table.

She took a flight after she has gone to Nick's pad and went home for a while to get more things. She forgot to eat and that caused her to get dizzy and collapsed. Her father found her in the hall.

"Thank you so much, Mia."

"You're welcome." Amelia replied. "Get dressed. I asked for food. You have to eat first before taking your medicines." Rhian went to eat her food. When she is done, she quietly sat on the edge of the bed beside Amelia. Her tears began to fall. Amelia soothed her back as she continued to cry quietly.

"I miss him so much. Back then, I know that I love him but I only took him for granted. He was very patient with me. He will give me everything I want just to make me happy. He loved me too. But I realized that he was only probably faking it. He only used me for his career. It hurt so much. I hate him so much and I hate him more because I love him so much." Rhian hugged her sister.

"He never loved you?"

Rhian nodded.

"Are you sure?"

Rhian turned to her. "I heard him say that to his sister. Then when I was in London, I saw him kissing a woman in a club."

"That's why you decided to follow tradition instead? Why didn't you confront the matter to him first?"

Rhian shakes her head as she continued to cry. "I can't. I was so hurt."

"But what if you're wrong?"

Rhian hugged her tighter. "Help me, Mia. Help me please. I don't know what to do. I want him back." She is desperate. She could not imagine herself living the rest of her life alone.

"Yes, but I want you to promise me first."

Rhian looked at her. "What is it?"

"I want you to take care of yourself. Eat a lot. Drink water. Get a decent sleep. I don't like you looking so thin and sickly. We, princesses, are beautiful. We should keep it that way." Amelia winked at her. She wiped her tears.

"Thank you for being here, Mia." Rhian sniffed. She appreciated it so much that her sister is there for her. "I'm sorry for being the brat that I am."

"Sshh..." Amelia hugged her.



~~~



Rhian watched as her sister talked silently with her husband. She saw the way Howie's hand ran at Amelia's back, the way he looked at her, the way he brushed her hair aside, the way he gently touched her round belly. They were so in love with each other. Rhian could not imagine them being apart.

"Let's talk later," Amelia tells her husband.

Howie kissed her and walked off. Amelia sighed dreamily when Howie glanced back and winked at her. Then he continued towards his office. On the other hand, King Albert retired early. Howie and Amelia invited them for dinner that night. She was surprised to see Alex, Drew's ex-boyfriend who is now her boyfriend, again. She sensed that the dinner was made for them to get back together. It was the only time that were able to settle the problems between them and Rhian saw how happy Drew is to be with Alex again.

Amelia slowly turns around and faced her sisters. They gave her teasing looks. "What?"

"Sexy time later, huh?" Drew teased.

"Duh, I'm almost five months pregnant." Amelia shakes her head.

Rhian followed when Drew carefully pulled Amelia towards one of the guest rooms. "We need to talk about something, Amelia." Rhian closed the door. The three sisters were finally settled in a room without any fight or resentment towards each other. It's the first time that happened to them.

"So, no more problems with Alex?" Amelia asks Drew.

"We already settled everything." Drew replied. "You heard him. He offered himself and a mother who will love me. I got more than I wished for." She smiled at them. "I don't care if he's a poor man now. I am willing to do anything, live a life from what I got used to just be with him. I love him so much. He's the only thing that matters."

"You can say that because you're confident that Papa will never permit you and Alex to live an impoverished life. I bet Howie will have a way too." Rhian said, rolling her eyes. It's unfair that their father favored those men for her sisters while she cannot do anything and does not have any choice.

"Partly, you're right about that," Drew chuckled. "But trust me. I know that I can do anything." Rhian looked away. Drew always have the confidence on anything because she knows how to get it while she can never have everything she wanted. She always had to work hard for it.

Amelia cleared her throat. "Alright, let's get into some serious matters." Rhian thought she saw her sister looked nervous.

"Is this life-changing?" She asked her.

"Yes." Amelia replied. She drew a deep breath. "It's about me and Howie. Listen. I am not your real sister. I was only exchanged by your mother from your real sibling which is Howie. He is also the real heir to the throne."

Drew gasped. Rhian could not believe it but she remembered the weird feeling whenever she's around Howie. That's because he is her brother. "You're not our sister?" She asks.

"Yes."

"That's why Howie's blood was good with mine. We're blood-related." Rhian added. She remembered when she collapsed and she needed blood because of her poor blood count. Howie was able to share his blood to her. She did not wonder about the impossibility of the situation until now and she did not actually had to question it. She wants to see Howie and hug her brother.

"I have a hunch about it when I found a folder in Papa's office. They were only investigative reports about Mama's extramarital affairs but I wouldn't be surprised that none of us were true children of the royalty." She heard Drew said as her thoughts went on. Howie's eyes resembled their father's.

"I assure you that you're all children of the king, you and Howie, but not me." Amelia said. "I found Mama's diary, even found my real birth certificate and my real parents in Switzerland. I'm not Volz. If truth be told, Howie will lose his right to the throne because he married me. You, Drew, will not succeed on the throne as well if you marry Alex in which I assume you will as soon as he asks you."

"Of course."

"Rhian has the only chance since she planned to marry Paolo instead of Nick." Amelia looked at the youngest one.

"I'm still in love with Nick." Rhian said. Never mind the tradition and the succession. She is going for the one she loves.

"We can't let this secret out. We have to burn any evidences, hide everything. Howie should assume the throne someday." Drew tells them.

"That's what I want to talk to him later." Amelia answered. "Papa knows too. He wanted Howie to inherit the throne. He is working on keeping the secret. Now, I'm tasked to tell my husband. I pray to God, things will work out fine. I don't want him to get mad at me or worst, leave me."

Silence overwhelmed the room. Amelia glanced down to her belly. Rhian noticed her dilemma and she hugged her. Even if she did not say anything, her embrace will tell her sister that she will be there for her. Her eldest sister hugged her back.

She looked at Amelia. "I will always be here for you if he leaves you, Mia. If it turns out otherwise, I guess he's not man enough and he's not my relative after all. We stick for each other, that's what we are, right?" Rhian looked at her. "That's what you are, Amelia. You always cared for everyone of us, in your own special way. Relative or not, you're still my sister. I don't care who you are or where you were from."

Drew joined the hug. "That's what sisters are for, right? We're Tres Marias. We stick together. We care for each other."

"Thank you." Amelia wiped her tears. Drew smiled. Rhian only nodded. "But what about Howie? Don't you even care about him? He's your brother. Your true kin."

Rhian shakes her head. "He's maybe our real sibling but first and foremost, we have an older sister."



>> 14


























14

There is no turning back.

Rhian thought about it many times. She could not forget the look of surprise in her father's face when she gave him her legal document, stating her resignation from her royal title. She is no longer a princess. She is now simply Adriana.

She looked around the empty pad that she bought for herself. She is now in London. She was able to get here discreetly and she knew that her father somehow had something to do with it. Despite what she did, he can always protect her.

Tomorrow, she will go to a salon. She will change her look. And then, she will try to find a job, if that's possible. She is excited to this newfound anonymity. Even though she has not lifted a finger in her life to do something, she is looking forward to do something, to earn something for herself.



~~~



Nick strode inside the coffee shop and quickly spotted the person he is meeting. He smiled. He is sure that he is going to nail this one. The client will sign a contract in, he glanced at his watch, ten minutes. He walked towards Dylan Habbes, an American who recently inherited an English title through his father.

"Good morning." He greeted. Dylan looked up and smiled. He accepted Nick's offer of a handshake. "I'm Nick Carter, President and CEO of the CAB Architects Incorporated."

"Dylan Habbes. It's good to see you." They took their seats. "I'm looking forward to working with you for my father's estate." Dylan took his services to do the landscape of his father's estate, and that also includes his father's tomb. Ever since he did the project in Volzenburga to landscape the late queen's tomb, their office was overflowed with new clients. Their company became known for its 'royal touch', as dubbed by his marketing team.

"Let's get on with the business, shall we?" Nick smiled as he takes his seat. He takes out an envelope containing the contract that the Marketing team has prepared. His Sales & Marketing manager will be arriving anytime soon. They are going to seal the deal before noon. He doesn't usually deal personally with the clients but there are times that he wanted to do the things he usually does when he and his friends were just starting the company. It keeps him grounded, to know how they became successful through the hardwork of every team in their company.

Beneath the dark glasses and sports cap, Rhian watched Nick spoke with the earl. She also noticed the attention of some women towards the men's table. She looked up when her name called. Not actually Rhian or Adriana, but her third name Georgie, short for Georgina. She was born Adriana Lorraine Georgina Juliana. She stood up to get her mocha frappe.

Nick looked up when he heard the man behind the bar called out a name. He saw a woman, with the dark glasses, stood up and took her order. His heart beats fast. There is something familiar with the woman.

"My accountant is going to prepare the downpayment for the project tomorrow." Dylan said, interrupting him.

Nick turned back to his client. "I'm looking forward to working with you." They were greeted by the arrival of Nick's corporate lawyer, Atty. Stanley and his friend and the Sales Manager, Russell Jacobs. While talking about the details of the contract, Nick would sneak glances at the woman.

He checked on his phone for the time. Ten minutes before noon, Dylan Habbes has already inscribed his mark on the dotted lines, just as he predicted. They shook hands and invited the man for lunch.

But the good man declined. "I'm sorry, Nick, but I have a flight to New York in two hours. I need to rush." Dylan smiled as they shook hands again. A few words were exchanged and the earl left to go to the airport.

"I'm going to validate the contracts, Nick, and I'll see you at the office." Atty. Stanley also has engagements after the meeting.

Nick smiled. "Thank you, Dean. I'm expecting the papers this week." The young lawyer excused himself and left the coffee shop as well.

Nick turned to Russell. "Going somewhere too?" He chuckled when he noticed that his friend is all dressed up.

"I have a date," Russell grinned. He stood up and patted Nick's shoulders. "And you?"

Nick shrugged. "I don't know. I'll probably chill here for a while." Russell nodded and left. When Nick is finally alone, he took the chance to look at the intriguing woman. Her back is on him and she is reading the daily paper. A notebook and pen are on the side. He saw her scribbling earlier. He watched her.

The woman must have sensed that she is being watched. She straightened from her seat. She folded the newspaper and set it down on the table. She looked behind her and caught him staring. Nick wondered about her reaction because he could not see beyond the dark shades she is wearing. Her cap is hanging low, almost covering her face.

Nick silently gasped when he realized the person he is staring at. Rhian! His eyes widened. He looked around for any of her bodyguards. Oddly enough, he could not see any one of them. Is it possible that she is alone?

He didn't make an attempt to get near her. She's so near yet so far. He went to the counter to order another cup of coffee. He went back to sit at his table afterwards and continue watching Rhian. The laptop he brought with him is now open and he decided to study some reports in his email while watching Rhian. Why is she here? Isn't she supposed to be in Volzenburga, preparing for her wedding? Is Paolo with her?

He stared at his laptop screen. Is he going to walk over and talk to her? Will she talk to him? What if she is only here and waiting for Paolo? His jaws clenched at the thought of his former friend.

He was surprised when she was suddenly standing in front of him. He did not notice her leaving her table. He was occupied by the email that came up in his inbox.

"Hello, Nick."

He was mesmerized by her beautiful angelic face and he could only watch as she leans closer and removes his eyeglasses. He is not expecting for anything but when her lips touched his, he could only savor the moment.

When he was able to recover himself from shock, he pulled away. "Your Highness..." He muttered automatically afterwards.

"No, Nick. I'm now just simply Adriana. I'm back to get you." She puts his glasses on. With one last smile, she lightly patted his cheeks and then, she walked off. He was left staring, as so did the other people inside the cafe.



~~~



When Nick reached the office, a folder is placed on his desk just as he expected. He called his secretary earlier and asked her to make a research on the latest news about Rhian. His ever-competent secretary had it all ready in a folder by the next day. He smiled.

He opened to read the contents as soon as he is seated.

A few minutes later, he sets down the folder. His face is one of shock. Did he read it right? Rhian gave up her title and eligibility to the throne for him?

He picked up the phone to call his uncle. His Uncle Arnie answered the phone after five rings.

"Uncle, it's Nick."

"Oh, son. How are you in London?" There is that usual congenial voice in Arnulfo.

"I'm fine, uncle. I wanna ask..." Nick bit his lower lip, hesitated at first. "Is it true? Did she give up her royalty for me?"

There was silence for a while on the other line. "I am actually at the Parliament, son. We were discussing about it when you called. Yes, she's no longer eligible to inherit the throne. Only the eldest one, Prince Howard, was left to inherit it. Fortunately, he already sired a son. The succession is secured. But we were discussing about the king's plans of rejecting the legal document that Princess Adriana has submitted. His Majesty will not strip the title off from his daughter." Arnulfo said.

"Are you going to retain it to her?" Nick wished they would.

"There is a law pertaining to this, Nickolas, but I know that His Majesty will find a way. I will do the same, as well. The title is a birthright, you know that. The legal documents were just papers. For everyone, she will always be the king's daughter. No one can take that away."

Nick stared at his notepad that is already full of scribbles, mostly of Rhian's name. "She's here in London, uncle. I met her yesterday."

"Can you make her stay? Can you watch over her?"

"As a servant of the Crown, I would, sir. As a man in love, there is no question about that." Nick quietly replied.

"We cannot do anything against their tradition, Nickolas, just like what your duty is as your mother's heir."

Nick knows it. "I understand, Uncle. Don't worry. I know. I'll stay away from Rhian as much as I could."

"I'm going to hang up now, son. I need to get back inside."

Nick sighed. "Thanks, uncle."

"Remember what I said."

"Yes. Bye." Nick puts down his phone. He stared at the two photo frames on his desk. One is a photo of him with his family while the other is of him and Rhian. He took the latter and placed it inside the drawer. He has duties for his family. He promised his mother long time ago. He was trained to become what he is destined to be.

Sometimes, he wondered why he and Rhian had to conform with the family duties when they can do whatever they want, whatever that pleases them.

But of course, they knew better than that. They have a responsibility and they cannot get away with it.



>> 15


























15

Nick tried not to roll his eyes as he drinks in his wine glass. He is in an exclusive club in London and overhears a group of preppy teenagers discussing about going on a Mediterranean vacation. He noticed that they were a bunch of spoiled brats, trust fund babies whose parents were probably rich enough to pay everyone and anything to make these young people happy.

He and his siblings grew up in a privileged situation as well. His father is a successful industrialist, a corporate raider in his younger years. His mother used to be an aristocrat in Volzenburga who, despite being a socialite during her bachelorette days, was always a hands-on mother. He and his siblings grew up in an almost-normal environment, with a little twist of high class socialization here and enrollments to preppy schools there. But over-all, they grew up fine. They got used to getting what they want if they work hard for it. They were far from these young people beside him who were parading their family wealth for everyone to see. Money is something to save for the rainy days and also something to share to the needy, those were the words that came from his father. The family name is something to honor and cherish, as well.

And that leads back to his current situation. He remained apart from Rhian because of honor and respect to his family. He will no longer interfere with the royal tradition just like what he was about to do a few months back. His uncle explained to him why he should avoid the situation. They need all the approval they could get from the king once Nick assumes his duty as the new Viscount of Dorotea. And with that, he had to do some sacrifices.

"I heard that Stavos' dad has a new yacht. Let's use that one," he overheard a young man said. He straightened up and left the bar, leaving the wine glass and a generous tip to the bartender.

"Hey, gorgeous."

Nick would have ignored the greeting if it was not whispered in his ear. He felt the bolt of electricity when someone blew in his ear. He took a few steps back. He saw a beautiful redhead smiling at him. "Uh, hi."

"Have I seen you before?" The woman asks him.

Nick blinked twice. "I'm a nobody." He stared at her.

"But you are here. A nobody doesn't come here." The woman traced the smoothness of his face with her finger.

Nick smiled when she arranged the lapel of his coat. "What's your poison, honey?"

The woman looked at him with a raised eyebrow. "Are you alone?"

Nick raised his hand. "No girlfriend, no wedding ring." He grinned. The woman grinned back. "So, what can I buy you?"

"I want to know your name first."

Nick stared at her. "It's Nick. Nick Carter."

"I'm Heidi."

"Just Heidi?" Nick chuckled when Heidi wound her arms around his neck. He held her waist.

"I never carry a surname." Heidi tells him.

"Really? Just like a princess?"

Heidi leaned closer until their lips were inches from each other. "Nick, only princesses drop their last names." His eyes widened when he felt her kiss. Oh my. Why can't princesses leave him alone?



~~~



Rhian snapped her fingers to the bartender while watching Nick kiss Heidi, a far distant relative. She is a scion of a non-ruling royalty in Riaztoliev, an old country in Eastern Europe. Truly, the members of the royal family were akin into marrying foreigners.

"What do you want, Ma'am?" The bartender asks her.

"More margarita, please." She did not look away from the kissing scene. Her heart is hurting so bad. She did not want any woman near Nick, even if it is her cousin.

The margarita was served to her. The kiss continued to unfold before her. Why didn't Nick push Heidi away? She saw how Heidi ambushed him before the kiss. Nick was obviously surprised by the bold act but instead of pushing her away, he deepened the kiss.

She turned to the bartender nearby. "Last one."

"Last one." The bartender has already prepared her margarita. She drinks it. When she's done, she saw Nick and Heidi were already talking. His hands were on her waist. He was whispering in her ear. Rhian never felt so jealous like this before. Leaving a few hundred bucks to the bartender, she decided to confront the situation. She walked towards them.

But she stopped. Why would she do it? He is no longer her boyfriend. She turns away, changing her mind.

Nick turned to the side and saw a glimpse of Rhian. What, she's here? Heidi took his chin to face her.

"Hey, I thought you're over her."

Nick frowned. Who does this woman thinks she is to immediately act like she owns him? He stepped back, letting go of her. "You know me?"

"Adriana is a distant relative. I never really used a surname, I told you."

Small world! Nick shakes his head. "I'm sorry. Excuse me." He left Heidi and went to the other way.



~~~



When Nick got out of the elevator and saw his secretary, he knew that something was up. Laura was fidgeting. He ceremoniously placed his briefcase on top of her table. "Alright, what did you do?" He asks, trying to hide his amusement. His secretary was very competent and he has no complain about her.

"Someone forced his way in your office, Nick. I've been telling him to wait for you here but he said that he would rather be inside." Laura said.

Nick did not have an idea who is his visitor. "Did you offer coffee or tea?" He asks Laura.

Laura's eyes widened. "Yes, I did but he would rather wait for you. It's His Royal Highness, Prince Howie."

Nick only drew a deep breath. "I'm gonna see the prince now. Answer the calls for me for probably about an hour or two. Then we will leave for a meeting later after lunch." He went towards the door of his office. He wondered what brought Rhian's brother here. For weeks, he and Rhian were in a some kind of a game. She would watch over him and he would do the same. After the episode at the coffee shop, she never got near him again and he wondered what her plans are.

He opened the door and saw Howie sitting on the couch. "Good morning," he said and closed the door.

Howie turned and stood up. "Good morning." They shook hands. "I know you're a busy man so I won't be beating around the bush. I came here to see Rhian. Did you know where she lives?"

"Yes." Nick gestured the seat and they sat together, face to face. "I can tell you where." He cannot see any reason why he will hide the information from Rhian's brother.

"Yes, thank you." Howie received the piece of paper where Nick wrote the address of Rhian's London pad. He will go there after his visit with Nick. "Have you talked?"

"No, sir."

"Why?" Howie asked. Nick looked tired and frustrated.

"I know she's not yet ready, and so am I, Your Royal Highness."

Howie looked at the man. "Are you going to wait for a long time?"

"No, sir." Nick looked up when Howie stood up.

"You should start planning how now, Nick. I'm here to take her home. She will always be Volzenburga's princess, like her sister Amelia. It took me a lot of love and courage to get what I want, all for my love for Amelia. I hope you will do the same thing. Personally, I like you for my sister." Howie shook hands with him again. "Thank you for this information. I should be going now."

Nick was now alone as the door closed behind Howie. The prince is right. He is not going to wait anymore.



>> 16


























16

Nick felt the look from a group of women when he turned down the street towards the club where he saw Rhian went to. Hair spiked in the latest trend and dressed down in a royal blue turtleneck and dark jeans, he continued on his way. When he reached the entrance of the club, he was only greeted with a look. It is an exclusive club for the rich and famous, the royalty and the socialites. It was not his thing to go there but he belonged in the society where he needed it for networking and not for leisure.

"You don't know me?" Nick asked with his charming smile.

"Not a clue." The bouncer said.

Nick raised an eyebrow. He watched as the other bouncer whispered something to his colleague. He folded his arms across his chest and waited.

Then the bouncer finally turned to him. "Your Grace, apologies for the delay. Please come in." He tells Nick and stepped aside.

Nick smiled wider and gave him a hundred bucks. He continued on his way inside. There were a lot of people inside already and the party is in full swing. A few acquaintances greeted him and chatted for a while. Two women asked him to dance and he went with them. Afterwards, he went to the bar and was greeted by the bartender.

"I've never seen you before." The bartender tells him. "What's your title? Almost everyone here tonight has one." When Nick looked at him, he shrugged. "It's only for fun. I was always fascinated with my job. I get to meet people like you."

"Viscount," Nick quietly replied. He took a swig of the vodka he ordered. "But I'm just a regular guy, too."

"Nice." The bartender smiled and then, excused himself. Nick finally got the chance to survey the area. He looked for Rhian. Where is she? He heard a group laughing and saw a group of women. One of them was the princess of England, and then there is one from Spain. There's also this famous socialite. And then Rhian. He frowned. Why is she in the group? Well, she was the princess of Volzenburga but that kind of group, the wild child-type, was not her thing.

He watched them discreetly, so as to avoid attention. The music tuned in to the latest hits and the crowd went wild. There were dancing everywhere. Nick watched in amusement as his head bobbed with the beat of the music. Even Rhian's group were dancing too.

Nick was surprised when somebody grabbed his head and kissed him. When the woman pulled back, Nick recognized her. Margareth Lisbon. She was his former girilfriend in New York. "Mharge! It's been a while!" They remained friends. It was Mharge who broke up with him because she told him she was put by her parents in an arranged marriage. Nick suddenly realized that Mharge and Rhian had something in common. They chose their family tradition over him. It left a bitter taste in his mouth now. "How's married life?"

Mharge raised her hands to him. There is no ring.

Nick found himself chuckling. "What happened?"

"He eloped with someone else. Now, I'm happy with being single and a new boyfriend."

"Really, huh?" He smiled at her. "Good for you."

"And you? What happened to your princess? You're so good together." Mharge asks.

Nick shrugged. "We're over. That's it."

"Oh," Mharge hugged him. "I'm your fan, you know. I follow your story or news on the internet. I know that what you have was real."

"It's alright, Mharge. By the way, are you alone?"

"She's with me."

Both turned and saw the famous London actor, James Hutton. Mharge went to him and kissed him. "James, this is my friend, Nick. We grew up together in New York. Nick, this is James, my boyfriend." The men shook hands.

"It's nice meeting you." Nick said.

"Likewise," James smiled. "Can you excuse us? I found my brother and I'm going to introduce Mharge."

Mharge was surprised. She turned to James. "Seriously?"

James kissed her again. "Yes, seriously." The two excused themselves from Nick. He turned to look for Rhian again and now saw her talking with a man. The man is tall and handsome. He was saying something to her and because the place is loud, he had to lean closer to her ear.

Nick turned to the same bartender he spoke with earlier. "Who is that man with the princess of Volzenburga?" He asks as he slips a hundred bucks to him. The bartender gave him another glass of vodka.

The bartender turned to where Rhian is and nodded. "Giorgio Facinelli. He's a socialite."

"Just that?" He didn't mean to sound arrogant but jealousy crept in.

"That's just it, Your Grace."

Nick nodded. "Thanks." He looked at Rhian and Giorgio again. He didn't the trust the man, especially by the way he looks at Rhian. His jaws clenched. He drinks his vodka. Rhian was laughing at something that the man told her. They spoke for a long time as Rhian continued to drink. She kept on laughing and Nick assumed that she's already drunk. It's been a long time since Nick last saw her like this and he knew that it was not a very good sign. He knew that Rhian is alone. She escaped from her bodyguards again.

Nick saw Giorgio leaned closer to Rhian again. After leaving a few bills, the two left the club. Nick quickly followed them. They went inside a heavily-tinted car and sped off. He memorized the look of the car and went to his own car. When he reached the road, he saw a glimpse of it from a distance.

He almost missed the traffic light when he reached the corner and he quickly stopped. "Damn!" He exclaimed in frustration. He watched as the car sped farther away. He's getting nervous. He didn't want to think about it but his instincts were sometimes right. And it's not good right now.

When the green light went on, he tried as much as not to overspeed even though he wanted to be where the car went to. Alas! He could not find it. He turned to the next corner. Another traffic. He sighed in frustration. Where did they go?

A few minutes later, when he reached the boulevard, he saw a car passed by. When he saw the plate number, he followed it. The car went everywhere until it reached the road towards the countryside. It stopped.

Giorgio went out and went to open the passenger door. He took Rhian's unconscious body. Nick immediately went out of his car just as when Giorgio threw Rhian on the grass. He aimed a gun on her.

"No!"

There was a shot. Nick was blinded with fury and ran to him. He didn't mind that Giorgio is holding a gun. When he saw Nick, he aimed the gun at him.



~~~



Nick ignored the nagging pain in his shoulders and the trembling grasp on the steering wheel as he parked the car in front of the emergency area of the hospital. With his trembling bloodstained hands, he took Rhian out of the car and ran inside the hospital, shouting for doctors. The medical personnel immediately appeared from every corner.

"Please help," he said desperately. He ignored his tear-stricken face when a nurse stared at him in surprise. "I saw her being shot," he continued as Rhian's unconscious form was transferred in a gurney. "I tried to stop but I was shot, too." Weariness came over him and he fell in the arms of the doctor beside him.



~~~



Nick suddenly woke up and found a nurse beside him. "Rhian! Where is Rhian?" He felt the pain on his shoulders. He is wearing a sling.

"You have to rest. We just finished taking out the bullet from you." The nurse said.

Nick looked at her. "You don't understand. I need to know what happened to Rhian. She's the woman I was with. She was shot."

"And so are you. She's still in the emergency room."

"Where are my things?" Nick asked when he realized that he is in a hospital gown. "I need to call her father. Oh please. Let her live," he held the nurse's arms. "Please. She's the princess of Volzenburga. The king doesn't know this yet. Please. Don't let anyone know this yet, not even the media."

The nurse nodded. She gestured to the side table. "Your things were there, including your mobile phone."

"Please, let me know how she's doing," Nick said again. He grabbed the phone and dialed the only person he had to call. He realized that he doesn't have Howie's number. The phone rang and Enrique Tobias' familiar voice echoed in his ears. The nurse urged him to lie back on his bed. He followed the nurse.

"I will tell the doctors," the nurse said and went out.

Nick stopped himself from crying. He felt so helpless. "Enrique, this is Nickolas Carter. I'm at a hospital in London, with Rhian. Please help me. Help us. She was shot. I took her here. I was shot too." He cringed when he felt the pain. He stood from his bed. He doesn't care about the nurse's advice. He was only shot on the shoulders while Rhian was shot on the chest. It worried him that it might hit her vital organs that's why she's still in the ER.

"Where's the princess? How is she?"

"She's still in the emergency room," Nick wiped the tear that fell.

"And you? How are you?"

"I'm fine now, Sir. They could not let me get out this room but I have to see Rhian."

"Stay there. We are going there."

"Can I talk to the king? Please?" Ignoring the nurse earlier, he went to the hall outside and followed the sign towards the emergency room. He doesn't care if the nurse will scold him. He had to be near where Rhian is.

Enrique drew a deep breath on the other line. "I will connect you to His Majesty's office." Nick waited for a while. He silently listened to the music of Bach as he was put on hold. He reached the ER. The nurse finally saw him and shook her head in disagreement.

"I can't stay there when I need to know how she's doing," he immediately reasoned out to the nurse. And then he heard the voice of King Albert.

Nick cleared his throat after formally greeting the king. "Your Majesty. I have already told Mr. Tobias the news."

"He surely didn't tell me, Mr. Carter. What is it?" The king said on the other line.

"I am in the hospital, sir. I'm in the emergency room with Rhian. She was shot. Can you please help us take her home as soon as possible?"



>> 17


























17

Rhian was already in stable condition when her brother arrived to get her. Howie already filed the situation to the Scotland Yard to help them find Giorgio. After checking on his sleeping sister, he talked to the doctor for recommendation if Rhian can already travel. He had to bring his sister home. But the doctor gave them another day to stay before she will be deemed to travel.

He also spoke with Nick, who was frantic and angry, as he sits in the Sitting Area of the hospital suite he got for Rhian. Howie could see the love and concern from the young man's eyes.

"It's my fault. If I didn't lose the car, and I get there just in time, she should not have been shot. If I only take advantage of all the time we had, I should have pursued her instead and we were together again," Nick quietly said as he stared down on the floor. He was given treatment for his gunshot wound but he insisted to be in Rhian's room instead of be admitted in another room.

"You were only following the rules of the royal tradition Nick. No one could blame you for not pursuing her instead. We all know how honorable it was that you chose to give up on her despite your feelings for her. It was sad, yes, but you had to do it." Howie said.

Nick turned to him. "When she gets back to Volzenburga, is she going to marry Paolo?"

"Paolo is still willing to marry her."

Nick drew a deep breath. "And I still love her. I don't think I can love anyone as much as I love her." Suddenly, he found himself confessing his feelings for Rhian to Howie.



~~~



Howie used the royal jet and it was the same transportation they took when they brought Rhian home to Volzenburga. When she gets in to the plane, she went straight to the room, announcing to everyone that she does not want to be disturbed. The travel time from London to Volzenburga was six hours and for the first two hours that Rhian is still confined in the room, Howie decided to check on his sister.

But he was met with a pillow thrown to him when the door opened. "Adriana?" He was surprised by her reaction. "It's brother."

"Close the door!"

"Now, don't you use that tone on me, young woman -" Howie closed it again when he saw her grabbed something from the side table.

"What happened?" Nick asked behind him.

"I don't know. She's just mad at me for some reason," they both stepped back when something hit the door.

"Leave me alone!"

"She needs to eat and take her medicines," Nick said. Howie nodded. He went to ask the two flight attendants about the situation. They agreed to help. They prepared the meal for Rhian, as well as her medicines, and went inside the room. The two men waited. They could only sense the silence inside. Then, they heard the TV was turned on.

More than an hour later, one of the flight attendants came out. Howie immediately stood up. "What happened? It took you so long."

The flight attendant, whose nameplate said Reli, smiled. "It happened that Ira was a nurse before she became a flight attendant, Your Royal Highness. Her Highness followed Ira's instructions on the meals and the medicines. And then I suggested if we could watch a DVD, to keep her mind off from whatever that happened, sir. She is now sleeping. Ira was left behind to look after her."

"Thank you, Reli," Howie couldn't help himself and hugged her. "Thank you so much."

Nick smiled and shook Reli's hand. "Thank you very much, Reli. It means so much to us."

"It's my honor to help you in any way I can. Can you excuse me? It's almost time for your snacks." Reli said.

The two men stepped aside to give way for her. Howie went back to his seat and make some phone calls. Nick went back to his seat as well. He looked at the view of the ocean outside. What's happening with Rhian?



>> 18


























18

Amelia looked up when she heard the door opened and her husband came in. Casting one last glance to their baby boy who is sleeping peacefully in his crib, she went to Howie. "How's the trip? How is she? Is Nick with you?"

Howie stared at her and embraced her. "Nick insisted he will come with us. The trip is fine but Rhian isn't." He tightened his embrace when Amelia started crying. "I was late," he added somberly.

"Where is she? What really happened to her?"

Howie drew a deep breath and counted a few moments before he spoke. "We decided that she should stay with Papa and Aunt Victoria in her private apartments in the palace." He started. Rhian stayed with them for a while before she went to London. "I was already in London when I received the call from Papa that Nick called him and they were in the hospital. Rhian was almost raped. But she must have fought the man and struggled to escape. She had bruises."

"Nick came almost too late because he lost the vehicle where Rhian was. He followed her in a club and even when she left the place with a man. When he finally saw the car, he also saw the man outside, with Rhian in his arms, unconscious. Nick said the man threw Rhian on the grass," his jaws clenched, "and aimed a gun. Nick tried to stop the shot but failed and when the man saw him, he also shot Nick. It hit him on the shoulder."

"Oh, my God." Amelia cried.

"I will hunt that man and make sure he will be greatly punished." Howie said with conviction.

"And Nick? Where is he?"

"He's in his apartment. He will remain here for Rhian. He was blaming himself for what happened." Howie replied as he wiped his wife's tears. "Rhian is in trauma. You cannot talk to her without resorting to one of her tantrums. She can talk, without any problem, but only to Aunt Victoria. Our poor sister..."

Amelia hugged him again.

"The Scotland Yard in London was hunting for a man named Giorgio Facinelli. He's the socialite whom Nick identified as the man who was with Rhian and shot her."

"How's Papa?"

Howie looked at her. Amelia sensed that he would like to say something but was finding it hard.

"Howie..."

"He had a mild stroke." He stopped her before she reached the door. "I'm sorry. I was scared to tell you. It's been a bad day enough already. Papa is okay now. The doctors advised him to rest. They were monitoring him, too. It was already assured to the public that he is now in good condition. Obviously, no one has told you yet. I'm sorry that I didn't tell you, Mia."

Amelia is frowning as Howie puts his arms around her. "Don't do it next time. I'm going to hate you forever." Her husband only nodded. "I want to see Rhian."

"And what about Arthur?" Howie went to peek on their son.

"Did I say I will see Rhian now? I'll call Drew to look over Arthur."

Howie shakes his head. Amelia can be really moody sometimes. "Great. Drew would like to stick around with Arthur." He agreed. Drew is still not pregnant. She was not in a rush anyway. She and Alex only got married two months ago and their plans to have their own bundle of joy won't happen until two years later. They plan to enjoy their first years of being married with just having each other.

Amelia sits beside the crib and her husband sits beside her. "Have you heard about Kristin? Do you think they will come here?" Their cousin Kristin is now living happily in the countryside with her husband and son. They were planning to make another settlement in the US next year because Kristin wanted to slowly transfer her life with her husband in his birthplace. She said that Alegria held too much memories of the past and they will have it as a vacation place instead and a ranch in Kentucky will be their permanent residence.

"No. I don't know. Anyway, I will call Kevin later. He also needs to go over the production report of the duchy. After that storm last month, it devastated some parts of Alegria. It affected the business." Howie leaned in to kiss her.

"I'm really worried about Adriana." Amelia sighed. Howie didn't reply. Words cannot express what he feels to begin with. He is worried and furious. He is ready to kill someone but he had to control himself. Rhian needs all the love and support from her family now. She also needs justice from someone who did so wrongly to her. He will surely make that someone pay for what he did.



~~~



A princess never runs, Victoria tells herself as she rushed towards her niece's room through the adjoining door. But she's worried and had to hurry. Rhian is not yet in the condition to be fully left alone. She has suicidal tendencies. Victoria suggested to put Rhian in the other room connecting hers instead in Rhian's former private apartment in the palace, so that she can look after her personally from time to time. She is the only person her niece can trust after what happened. Oh, she didn't want to think of it. She is ready to kill the person who hurt Rhian, if only a noble princess like her could.

"Honey?" She softly called when she entered the room. Her nieces and nephews were almost like her children now. And she cared deeply for them, most especially to the youngest one. She saw herself a lot in Rhian. She always protected her from everything and it really hurt and angered her that someone managed to hurt her and turned her into what she is now. "Where are you, honey?" She looked around.

She saw one of the bedside lampshades fell on the carpeted floor. On the other side of the room, she saw Rhian curled up in a corner, trembling and crying. She rushed to her side and pulled her in an embrace. "Honey, auntie is here. Hush..."

Rhian hugged her aunt. "H-he grabbed me. H-he hit me. H-his hands were all over m-me." She said. "No, no, no, no, no, no, no, no." She kept on saying it like a mantra. She continuously shakes her head.

Victoria cried. She didn't know what to do. All she can think about is to be beside her niece and comfort her as much as she could. Amelia called earlier and said that she will come to see her sister.

Victoria is hoping that Rhian's sisters can help her get through this. They were women. She noticed that Rhian developed a fear towards men. Her brother, Howie, and Nick may have managed to take her home but they had a hard time since Rhian would not cooperate with them. Howie said she was hysterical during the flight back home and only the female flight attendants were able to calm her. Since then, they were never able to get near Rhian. They decided to call Victoria and meet them when they arrive.

Victoria saw the hurt and anger in the men's eyes when she met them at the tarmac. She was asked to get inside the jet where Rhian was quietly sitting on a chair, a stewardess was beside her. When Rhian saw her, she didn't let go of her.

"We will make sure that justice will be served, Rhian. Please, try not to think about what happened."

"It was horrible, auntie..." Rhian continued crying. When they heard somebody coming in the room, she buried her head in her aunt's chest.

Victoria saw Amelia. Rhian's eldest sister looked very worried. "Honey, it's Amelia." But Rhian didn't move.

Amelia sat down on the carpet with them. "Rhian, Mia is here. I came here to see how you are doing."

Rhian shook her head. Her face still hidden from her sister.

Victoria bit her lower lip. "She's probably not ready to see anyone yet." She tells Amelia.

Amelia began to cry. "I'm your sister, Rhian." It saddened her that Rhian didn't want to face her. "I love you."

Rhian cried harder. Amelia doesn't have any choice but to leave. Victoria is motioning her to go. Rhian's elder sister went to kiss her on her hair and after looking at her for a short while, Amelia turned to leave.

"Why didn't you face your sister?" Victoria asks Rhian but the latter did not say anything. "You also did that to Drew. I can understand if you don't want to face your father, or Howie or Nick." She only received a silent sob in reply. "Hush. Alright. I'll leave it. Did you eat already?"

Rhian looked at her aunt. She looked very vulnerable and afraid. She didn't even try to wipe the tears that fell down her cheeks. "No."

"I will call a maid to bring something here. Meanwhile, I will help you with your bath," Victoria helped her still-trembling niece on her feet. She is grateful that she is in the country when this happened. Her current beau, her childhood friend Carlos, has invited her for a vacation in Greece but she declined. And even if she went with him, she would fly back to take care of Rhian as soon as she would hear the news. She's almost like a mother to her nieces who lost their mother when they were so young to know it. If Juliana lived, she doubted if she will act motherly to her children. She has never been one when she was alive.

She sets Rhian down on the chair when they get inside the bathroom. She tried to look for some towels, something that she actually did not bother to do. When she found one, she heard Rhian spoke with full conviction.

"I don't want any men come near me, auntie. I would rather die than they touch me again."

Victoria feared for what is bound to happen to Rhian in the future.



>> 19


























19

"He's not yet found?" Nick sighed in frustration. He ran his hands through his soft blonde hair. He looked at where his siblings are. His sisters arrived yesterday for a vacation and it was a good thing that he had a place where they can stay, instead of in a hotel. Their uncle, who lives in the countryside, also offered his house but they politely declined.

"If I have to fly to London to look for him myself, I will do that. I will wait for an update this weekend. Thank you." Nick puts the phone back in his pocket. He walked towards his siblings. They were playing Wii in the living room.

"How is it?" Leslie asked.

"Negative." Nick replied. "Giorgio still could not be found. Help me or I will kill him when I see him. I will use whatever power that I have to locate that bastard." His jaws clenched. "If I have to ask for uncle's help, I will do it."

His sisters looked at each other. They didn't expect that something will happen on their vacation in Volzenburga. It was a planned trip and this was the only time that their time synched to travel in this side of Europe to see their brother and visit some relatives. Part of their plan was to try to catch a glimpse of the princess that their brother is still in love with. They only heard about Princess Adriana on TV and seen in glossy magazines. According to the media, she is the spoiled youngest princess of the royal family and Nick was the only person who tamed her.

"What are you going to do?" BJ asks. She is the eldest sister. They completely forgot about their video game. They sat beside their brother on the sofa.

"I hired my private investigator, apart from the Scotland Yard and the royal investigators that King Albert has sent for him. I won't rest until he pays for what he did to Rhian."

Angel bit her lower lip. She is the youngest among the sisters and she has a twin, Aaron, who was left behind in the US to look after their father's business. The twins has just graduated from college, through Nick's insistent persuasion. He wanted everyone to have a college degree, or at least a course certificate on BJ's part. As the eldest brother, he wanted to make sure that all of them were armed in the real world. And that's aside from the fact that their maternal grandfather wanted everyone of his grandchildren to finish school. "Nick?"

Nick turned to Angel. "Yeah?"

"Is it possible to see Adriana?"

Nick laughed. The question is not funny but somehow, he found himself amused at his sister's innocent question. When he saw that the other three were serious, he stopped laughing. "No, of course not. It's not easy." Suddenly, he felt trapped by their stares. "What? Don't make me go there and ask permission from the king. It's not the same anymore. Rhian doesn't even want to see me. I heard that she talks to no one except her aunt Victoria." It hurt him to think about it. He wanted to be there and soothe her feelings and assure her that he will never leave her. He witnessed what happened and he could almost feel her trauma.

"Nick..."

"No!" He glared at his sisters. He stood up and went straight to his bar. He poured himself a glass of brandy. He saw his sisters talking quietly and knowing them too well, they are planning something. He shakes his head. Whatever it is, they will not possibly be able to get in the palace with the permission from the king to see Rhian.



~~~



Drew opened the door of the room she hasn't been into for a long time. She saw white linens everywhere and they were there to cover her precious paintings. She decided to auction off her paintings and the money will go to her chosen charity, the Pink Fingers. It is a foundation for children with disabilities that needed medical help. She discovered it when she and Alex attended a book launch yesterday. It deeply touched her heart to learn about children who suffered from illness, impairment or disabilities. She expressed her interest to help so instead of organizing a ball, which is very expensive and inappropriate as per the family's ordeal right now, she will privately auction her paintings.

"Drew? What are these?" She heard her husband from the door. Alex found her. "Wow!" He saw a portrait of the king when he took a white linen off a frame.

"I did that."

Alex looked at her. "You didn't tell me that you're this talented."

"Well... No one really know except my family and now, you," Drew smiled shyly.

Alex chuckled as he walked towards her. "You are so cute when you're demure." She chuckled at the description. Alex kissed her. "I love you."

"I love you, too." Drew kissed him once again. "I already called the royal auction house. Help me choose what to sell. I will point out which are the ones that I want to remain." They began to work. Alex began singing and Drew went along. During the time of their engagement, they discovered a lot about each other and that includes their love to sing. Their voices can easily blend with the other.

"Oh, I love that one. Don't take it away," Drew said.

Alex looked at the painting and smiled. It is a picture of three girls under a tree, looking out at the vast green lands and from afar, there stood a castle on a hill. "What made this special?"

"That's Tres Marias: Amelia, me and Adriana." Drew winked at him then turned back in sorting the paintings.

"I have another idea." Alex said. Drew stopped and looked at him. "What if you organize an exhibit too? We can divide the paintings from those for auction and to those you can sell. It's all for a good cause. You can make that as a launch of your career as a painter. Then you're going to be one of the artists to represent Volzenburga's arts and culture." He stopped when his wife laughed. "Yes, Drew? What is it that you wanted to say?" He sarcastically asked. What's funny?

"Oh, it's just that your imagination is running wild again, AJ." Drew said. She kissed her husband. "I'm okay with the artist thingy but I would rather be a wife to a very loving and gorgeous husband such as you and someday, a mother."

"Hmmm... I like that better, too." Alex kissed her. "Let's just stick with the auction for now. I would rather have you for myself." They continued looking for drawings to auction. Alex spotted another beautiful painting. This time, it is a woman in the middle of a crowd. She stood out because of her beauty and her clothes. But the most distinctive with the woman was the way her face was shown. There was something mysterious in her eyes and her smile. The people surrounding her seemed to be in awe.

"That's Rhian. That's how I see her before." Drew tells him. "She's always the princess, in every essence of the word, just like Aunt Victoria. She's a brat, highly thinks of herself but doesn't complain for her royal duties and parties when she's done. All in all, no one really knows her. She's always a mystery to me. She always stands out among the crowd because she is beautiful and she knows that. She's arrogant. She's a snob." She smiled sadly. "It lessened when she met Nick. Suddenly, without her realizing, she was conscious about herself, on what she does and how people look at her. She was tamed. And it made her want to turn her back to being a princess and be normal, like Nick. She loves him. She wanted to be with him."

"Until she learned that she's already engaged to Paolo." Alex said. "I wondered why does it have to bother her when she knew that she can turn her back on it, just like Brian did, or you did."

Drew shrugged. "Rhian is a master in hiding her emotions. We can't really tell what is on her mind. So we don't really know what changed her heart to follow the tradition and then changed it again and decided to follow Nick instead."

"Maybe, she just really loved Nick and decided to go for it." Alex glanced at the painting. "Sometimes, the simplest thing is the only answer to the question."

"You're may be right about that. I want her to be fine soon. I couldn't bear seeing her like that. It is very depressing. She didn't deserve it."



>> 20


























20

Albert looked up when his assistant admitted Victoria inside his office. He looked back to the papers in front of him and reread it. He needs to get this thing done before he leaves for a meeting with the prime minister and the economic advisers at three in the afternoon.

Before the door came to a close, Howie also went inside without preamble. "What is this I learned about Rhian's specific request?" He immediately asks.

"I was also about to ask the same thing," Victoria had her hands on her hips, surveying the look on her brother's face.

Albert's brow furrowed. "Adriana wants to change her male bodyguards into females. Yes, you heard it right." He shakes his head.

"She absolutely doesn't want men around her," Victoria stated, recalling her recent conversation with her niece. After what happened, Rhian developed a passionate aversion towards men. She doesn't want to talk with anyone, including her father and brother. Nick is already out of the question. Victoria knows that the young man would like to see Rhian if given the chance. "What are you going to do?" She asks.

"I will grant her request."

"Let me do the screening, alongside your chief of security, Papa." Howie volunteered.

Albert sets aside the document on top of many others. He puts it in his outbox tray. Yes, the king does have one and he insisted it and it keeps him organized, even if his secretary is around. "I will schedule the screening with Enrique, Howard. I also received a formal letter from Paolo and his family regarding the matter of the betrothment. Paolo is backing out, for obvious reasons pertaining to what happened to Adriana." His jaws clenched as he showed the stationery to the two.

"Good riddance," Howie replied with a glare.

Victoria turned to her nephew. "Why are you so grim today, Howard?"

"I can't see Rhian. I'm frustrated. I'm worried of her and she hates men now. I want to see the end of this soon."

Albert puts the paper in hand inside the drawer then turned to the next document. "The stupid man who caused a lot of trouble is still nowhere to be found. There were people who said that they saw him in Italy, where his ancestors lived. I already sent some men there. The government also offered help and I'm most grateful."

"Can we ask every country on this earth to monitor their country and ban that man from entering?" Howie scowled. He is really not in his best mood.

"No, it's not possible, son."

Howie knew it. He only hoped that his father would say otherwise.

"By the way," Albert cleared his throat. The two paused with their thoughts to turn back to him. "I'm also concerned about Nickolas Carter. Enrique said he tried to make an appointment with Adriana but Victoria," he glanced at his sister, "advised to cancel all the requests."

"You already know the reason. I did invite him for tea tomorrow afternoon though, to talk. I would like to check how he is doing," Victoria said. "I was informed that he had visitors at home, his sisters."

"How many sisters does he have?" Howie became interested. He thinks that a man who has sisters, like himself, is capable of caring and understanding women. And for the short time that he was with Nick inside the royal jet on the flight back home, he saw how he was deeply concerned with Rhian. He also saw the look of love in the young man's eyes.

"Three. Nickolas is the eldest sibling. Isn't it cute?" Victoria smiled at her nephew. She's always amused by the protectiveness she felt from her brother and the one she always sees from Howie. She thinks that Nick is somehow the same to his sisters.

The two men didn't comment on that. "I want to talk to him," Albert said.

Howie didn't say anything when the two turned to him, probably thinking he would do the same. "Well, I would like to talk to him, and then meet his sisters."

"You're married." Victoria joked.

"I know. I'm happily married. It's not that, auntie. I was thinking about speaking with the man, and then I would like to meet his sisters. Perhaps, I could tour them around the palace as well." Howie saw the two giving him a look. "What? My intentions were clear."

Victoria rolled her eyes. She knew that Howie is up to something. So is she. She turned to her brother. "I have to go." She glanced at her watch. "I have an engagement in an hour." She turned and walked out of the office.

Albert raised en eyebrow to his son. "I will inform your secretary about the schedule to screen Adriana's new bodyguards."

"Thank you, Papa. I have to go." Howie drew a deep breath. He is frustrated again. Unless Rhian is back to her usual self, he is not going to stop hunting for that man.



~~~



Nick felt nostalgic when he stepped foot in the palace again. He spent several days going there for his work as a landscape architect first and then, to see Rhian. He remembered how he always looked forward on each day where he had the chance to see her. Only one smile from her can already ease his stress from a day's work. Only one touch from her can make him feel tingles all over and how he always thanked his lucky stars for meeting the person he saw himself spending his forever with. He loves Rhian and he wished that the nightmare between them will be over soon.

"You can wait at the gazebo, Sir." He heard the security said to him. He nodded and thanked him and went across the lawn, from the back door of the palace's north wing, towards the said gazebo. One security followed him and stayed nearby when he settled himself.

He sits on one of the chairs and tried to relax. He knew that Rhian is only somewhere in the private quarters of the palace's north wing. He wanted to see her but he could not because she doesn't want to. His heart ached at the thought of that. Rhian is near yet seemed so far.

While waiting, he anxiously arranged his tie. Before going to the palace, he finished and sealed a deal with some prospective clients who wanted him to design their gardens. He needed to continue with his job. Aside from the landscape company that he's spearheading and family duties that has obliged him to stay in Volzenburga, he needed to do something with his time to keep him sane.

Victoria watched the young blonde man waiting for her at the gazebo. Looking as handsome as always, she saw him anxiously checked on his suit. He looked nervous. He also kept on glancing at the second floor. He knew where could Rhian possibly be. She turned down the hall towards the stairs.

It's time to meet the man.



~~~



Nick turned his head when he heard and noticed the security. The sister of the king is here. He stood up as he watched Princess Victoria walked towards him. He remembered how Rhian adored her aunt like her own mother.

He smiled when Victoria comes near. "Good afternoon, Your Highness." He slightly bowed as a curtsy.

Victoria smiled back. She looked at him from head to feet. "You looked gorgeous, as always. Sit down."

Nick tried not to chuckle. Rhian told him how her aunt always tells what is on her mind. "Thank you, Your Highness."

"How are you, Mr. Carter?"

He only wanted to say the truth and he thinks there is no harm in telling it. "I'm not fine, Ma'am. Forgive me. I don't feel well about everything since it happened."

"You don't have to apologize for it. The family is deeply hurting too. We're not fine as well. Rhian is heavily traumatized over what happened. She only speaks to me." The smile left the princess' face when Nick looked at her.

"Oh."

"I called for you because we were also concerned about you. You and Adriana have been together for so long. You were almost a part of this family." Victoria paused.

"Thank you for your family's concern, Your Highness."

"I want you to help us with Rhian. I know she doesn't want to talk to anyone but me. I am going to set a schedule for you to meet."

Nick's heart began beating fast. He could not control the sudden excitement from what he heard that he smiled wider than earlier. It felt like he is going to burst with emotions. "Uh, I'm looking forward to that, Your Highness. I want to see her and talk to her. I will try what I can do."

From the second floor, Rhian watched her aunt talk with Nick. Sitting on the loveseat by the window of her bedroom, she stared at the face she missed. Nick always looked gorgeous in a suit. She always loved to make love to him, sometimes with his suit on.

"Nick..."

It seemed as if he heard her when at that moment, he glanced up towards where she is. She hides behind the heavy drapes. Is it possible that he still remembers where her private apartment is?

It took her a long moment to wait. She wanted to see a glimpse of him again. She tried to peek but Nick and her aunt were gone. Well, it was better that way. She didn't need to see him. She didn't know how to face him. If it wasn't for her stupid decision, if she only chose Nick, the bad things should not have happened. She blamed herself and she felt ashamed facing everyone, especially her father, her brother and sisters, and Nick. She can only turn to her Aunt Victoria. She looked at her as a mother and mothers always understand.



>> 21


























21

"Let's go out for dinner!"

BJ took a second glance when she heard and saw her brother passed by her room; he's whistling. She raised an eyebrow to her sister, Leslie.

"Something's up," Leslie said. They both hurried out of the room. They saw Nick went inside his room.

"Nick?" BJ knocked.

"I'm just going to change," they heard Nick's reply. "Are you dressed? I'm taking you out. My presentation was successful."

BJ and Leslie looked at each other. Angel went out of their room and asked what's happening.

"Nick must have gotten a great deal," Leslie replied. The door opened and revealed their brother. He is wearing a smart casual pair of shirt with collar tucked in his jeans.

"I will take you to clubs if you want it too." Nick tells them. His sisters noticed that there really is something different in him. "What are you looking at?"

"There's something more exciting, Nick. I can feel that. You've never smiled like that since what happened to Princess Rhian." BJ pointed out.

Nick nodded. He messed up her hair as he walked by them. "I'm going to see her." His sisters followed him with a look. "Soon..." He added and walked down the stairs.



~~~



Nick flinched when there was another flash from the cameras that surround him and his sisters. Why are they interested? He's the ex-boyfriend already so what's with the interest? He turned to his sisters and they gave him a look. He groaned inwardly. He forgot to tell them that he sometimes dealt with the paparazzi. They are going to kill him, in their minds. BJ must be planning on chopping him into pieces in the way she did with the ingredients she prepare in her job at the restaurant. Leslie is probably imagining herself twisting his neck with her bare hands. And Angel would probably steal all his prized possessions back at home and throw an auction; she will kill him in pure agony.

"You've never told us that you're a celebrity here. Back in the US, you're just the plain old Nick." BJ muttered beside him.

"Oops?" He received a smack at the back of his head. "Ouch!" Did Leslie really have to do that while the flashes of light kept on coming? Damn, he even heard a suppressed laughter in front of him.

They reached the restaurant and was immediately ushered to the reserved table.

"What's the big deal? You're all beautiful. You will look good in those magazines." Nick said when the three quietly stared at him.

"So what is this about meeting Princess Rhian?" BJ asks him.

"I'll tell it later. There are lots of people here." Nick smiled again. A waiter came to provide them menus. When they were still deciding on what to eat, they noticed a group of men in suits entering the restaurant. A woman in a corporate suit ushered the men towards the area that looked more private.

Nick turned back to the menu in hand.

"Who are they?" Angel asked curiously.

"Someone royal is coming," her brother quietly replied. He felt awkward at the time when he and Rhian were still dating, until it came to the point that he got used to it, he learned not to care about the number of security that Rhian has. She's the most protected member in their family. "So what are your orders?" Nick scanned the menu. "I'll have barbecue ribs, pasta alfredo, ceasar salad... Hmmm..." He paused. "Then bottomless glass of iced water." He smirked. "Yeah, that's just about it."

"You're really not that hungry, huh?"

"Yeah... Huh?" He looked up and saw a familiar face. "Paolo." He frowned as he stood up.

"Nick." It is a statement, from the way Paolo said his name. They stared at each other for a while. Tension filled the place. Everyone who looked at the two men, standing face to face to each other, can notice that.

BJ stood up when she couldn't take the awkward feeling anymore. "Who is he, Nick?"

Paolo broke the eye contact and turned to her. "Who are you?" He asks in an authoritative tone.

But BJ ignored him. "If there's a problem being in a same place with this guy, we can always go somewhere else. I don't want anyone breaking our mood to have a good dinner." And besides, they already caught the attention of most of the diners there. She would rather leave.

"Is there any problem here?"

The royal has arrived, Nick thought. He saw the king's favorite niece, Duchess Kristin and her husband, Kevin Richardson. He took a step back. "None, Your Grace. It's a pleasure to meet you tonight." He quickly said before Paolo could say anything. BJ is right. They should leave. He couldn't stay in the same place with a man who intended to take Rhian from him. His former friend. He may not control himself and do something he might regret later. And he will definitely not do that in front of his sisters, the duchess and her husband.

"I was only telling my hello, Your Grace." Paolo said.

Nick gestured for his sisters to stand up. They are leaving. "Excuse us, Your Grace, Mr. Richardson, we will go ahead. By the way, these are my sisters, Bobbie Jean, Leslie and Angel." He said without even casting a glance at Paolo.

"It's nice to meet you," Kristin shook hands with each of his sisters. Her husband did the same. The couple is a picture of domestic bliss. Nick believes that. He witnessed the woman that was the duchess before she married Kevin Richardson. She changed a lot since then.

They were out of the restaurant a few minutes later. The flashes of lights came back as they waited for the valet who has the car. When it arrived, they quickly left.

"Who's Paolo?" Angel broke the silence a few minutes later. She noticed the tension between the men earlier and she wanted to know why. She doesn't like the man immediately, most especially when he turned to BJ and looked as if he was sizing her up and decided he was better than most of them. There was a look of arrogance and an aura of aristocracy in him that irritates her. It was different from the duchess and her husband who arrived later. They looked kind and concerned. There was also an aura of aristocracy but they were certainly far from being snobbish.

"He is Rhian's betrothed." Nick quietly replied.

"He IS?" BJ asked incredulously. How could a woman would find that man attractive enough to marry him? It was an insult to her brother. Nick is far better than that man.

"It's a royal tradition and the king was the one who decided on it. Rhian broke up with me and followed the tradition." Nick gripped the steering wheel tightly.

Leslie and Angel, who sat in the backseat, looked at each other. "I wondered why she went to London and followed you, if she decided to follow the tradition. Perhaps, she's still in love with you?" Leslie shakes her head. They saw him suffer after his breakup with the princess and it was hard for them to see his agony. Leslie wanted her brother to move on but it seems like he could never do that.

"I don't know."

Leslie sighed.

BJ looked at her brother. "So, about this Paolo. You seemed to know each other for a long time..."

"He's my very first friend in this country. And then when the subject about the betrothment was brought up, he was suddenly possessive of Rhian even when we were still together. It hurt our relationship and Rhian wanted to please her father so she decided to follow the tradition."

So that's the story, BJ thought. "Can you just stop by the McDonalds on that corner? Let's have some of it. I missed it already."

"I don't eat burgers. What am I gonna eat?" Angel said.

"You don't eat anything unless you're a four-legged animal, Angel. Try the quarter pounders. It won't hurt you, promise," BJ chuckled.

"I thought we're going to some resto." Angel tried again.

"Well, it looks like McDonalds is paparazzi-free. I'd rather sacrifice my diet than be abused by those people." Leslie retorted.

Nick looked at the two women through the rearview mirror. "Are you sure about McDonalds?"

"Yes," BJ and Leslie chorused.

"Angel?"

"Do they have salad or something, you know...?"

"No," BJ and Leslie chimed, and they laughed.

"Come on, guys. Angel can't eat there." Nick tells the other two. Angel stuck her tongue out to her sisters. Her brother usually favored her among them. "What is she going to eat?"

"She can have a milkshake or some chicken nuggets." Leslie said. She received a glare from her sister. "No, seriously, Angel. I was only thinking about our privacy. Those motorbikes or scooter or whatever they call it are following us since we left the restaurant."

Nick glanced at his mirrors. "Shit. I forgot it. I'm so sorry, girls." He shakes his head. Moments later, his eyes lit up. "Let's go to The Ostrich. It's safer. Forget Mickey Ds for a while." Then he sped up.



~~~



Nick watched his sisters took their seats before he took his. They arrived safely in The Ostrich, an exclusive restaurant that prohibits paparazzi within its five-hundred meter radius. It gained its status from its owner, Salvador Rey, Earl of Luces and the king's nephew from a cousin. He also became Nick's friend.

"You all looked alike," said the person behind Nick. He turned and saw Salvador, or Aya to his friends.

"Hey," Nick smiled. "It's nice to see you again." They gave each other a manly hug. "These are my pretty sisters." He introduced each to Aya.

Aya shook each of their hand. "I'm very glad to finally meet you. Nick has been talking a lot about you."

"I hope they were all good," BJ smiled.

"Oh, yes. They are. Trust me." He turned to Nick. "I heard what happened at Torre. I'm hurt. You went there first before going here?" He shakes his head. "You know how uncle made this exclusive."

"You charge overexpensive food, Aya. You can't blame me," Nick chuckled.

Aya turned to Nick's sisters. "Don't believe your brother. Every food in the menu is delicious and Nick is richer than me. He can pay everything on the menu, trust me."

"Oh, we trust you. Nick was on the verge of taking us to McDonalds," Angel replied.

"Oh, Nick's a joker, really. So what are your orders?" Aya takes out his notepad from his pockets.

Nick raised an eyebrow. "Don't you have anything to do?"

"Yes, as a matter of fact I have and I'm taking your orders." Aya gave the ladies his most charming smile. He has the right to do that. BJ thinks the man is gorgeous. "Furthermore, I would like to suggest our specialty..."



>> 22


























22

Rhian stared at the newspaper that was provided to her during breakfast. She opened the society pages and saw Nick and three women walking behind him, his sisters. She never met them but she always wished she could. He tells a lot about them. What are they doing in Volzenburga?

She missed him but she didn't know how to face them. She cares a lot about what they think after what happened. They might laugh at her or worst, looked at her and think how 'dirty' she became. She threw the newspaper aside. She tried to stop her tears from forming in her eyes. She was used to hiding her emotions and she had to continue doing it.

It was at that moment when her brother came in the dining hall and saw what she did. Howie ignored it. He glanced at the security camera first before he went to her. "Good morning, Adriana." He smiled.

She only nodded in acknowledgment. Howie sat beside her. She wondered where is Amelia and their son, Arthur. She wanted to ask but she couldn't.

"Would you like to come with us later at the anniversary celebration of The Dazzle?" Howie asks her.

"I don't like big crowds now." She simply replied. She continued eating. She tries not to look at her brother. She's not comfortable.

"By the way, Kristin will be coming over and she's bringing her son, Mason. You can drop by the private residences later to play with your nephews." Howie tried again.

"I'll think about it."

Howie smiled. Rhian loved and hated it at the same time, on how she could easily respond to her brother. She drinks her water. "Excuse me," she stood up and quickly left the dining hall. Once she's out, she went to the private route towards her private apartments. Her friends would get lost around the palace if they don't have the security leading them. Amazingly for her, she have the natural instinct since she was young and she can go around the palace without getting lost.

Quietly, she reached the private apartments and she was surprised to see two of her female bodyguards by the large sitting room. When she requested for the exchange of genders with her bodyguards, her father and Howie immediately complied.

Victoria greeted her and there is something in her eyes that is suspicious to Rhian. "Adriana, hello, darling." Her aunt kissed her on the cheeks but Rhian was focused somewhere else, to the person she saw standing by the couch.

"Darling, I brought Nick with me." She heard her aunt said.

Rhian could not move from her spot. She only stared at the man she missed a lot. Her heart beats fast. "What is he doing here?" She asked in a quiet voice. She turned away. She couldn't bear being in front of him, feeling ashamed for what happened to her.

"He came to see you." Victoria said.

Rhian bit her lower lip.

"Rhian..." Nick called.

Rhian did not say anything. Victoria called everyone to leave and she also did the same. Moments later, the two are finally alone.

"Thank you for saving me," Rhian said, but she couldn't look at him.

"I will do that anytime of the day." Nick tells her.

"They told me what happened. He shot you, too." She said, still not looking at him.

"I already hired an investigator to catch the man. I will do anything in my power to send him to jail." Nick added. He tried to read her eyes but he could not know what is in her mind. It was always hard to decipher her but when she allows it, he always felt lucky. "Can you please look at me?" It took him to wait for a while before Rhian turns her way to him. "Thank you."

"Why are you doing this?"

"Because no matter what happens, I won't give up on you."

Rhian shakes her head. "I don't believe you. I saw you kissing a woman and then also heard you once that you never really loved me at all." She watched as Nick looked confused.

"No. I never said that and if ever I kissed somebody else, I'm probably drunk or they just kissed me." Nick answered. They stared at each other for a long while. "I love you, Rhian. I always will. I don't care if you're engaged to Paolo. I will not stop loving you." He softly said. "I will continue to hold on to my promise of marrying you. I'm forever yours."

Rhian was thankful that she heard it because her heart is beating so fast. She didn't know how to respond. She can only look at him.

Albert heard the conversation. He was about to see Victoria when he heard voices in the nearby common room. He knew that Nick is here because his sister asked his permission to allow the young man to see his daughter. He immediately agreed, hoping that Rhian would respond to anyone aside from Victoria. It seemed to work.

He had to make his presence known. He has something to say to the young couple.

Both turned when they heard someone came. It is the king. Nick stepped back, allowing himself to keep full distance from Rhian. He bowed to greet the king. Rhian looked away.

"I came here because I received a news from Paolo. He dropped off the engagement." Albert said without preamble. "And after consulting my advisers, I will be approving the decree of Adriana's engagement to Nickolas Carter, of which I learned to have come down from the noble lineage of the Earl of Dorotea." He nodded in approval towards Nick who looked surprised.

Rhian's mouth dropped open in surprise too. What?

"I'm only a descendant to my maternal great grandparents, the Earl and the Countess of Dorotea." Nick said.

"But you have a blood of a Volz." The king said. "Your mother, the youngest daughter, is a titled noblewoman. You, as her eldest child, inherited it when she turned it over to you."

Rhian turned to Nick. "You didn't tell me that."

"I don't think there's a need to say that I'm about to become a Viscount." He tells her. "It's not enough for you." Rhian stared at him for a while.

"It never mattered to me on who you are, Nick." Rhian said. The two turned to Albert when the king cleared his throat.

"That's one of the reasons why his mother sent him here to study and work. He has obligations to do for his family and he cannot make a special announcement to become a titled lord until he fulfills some of his duties and initiations and the parliament grants him his full rights to the title." Albert said to them.

"But I still can't be engaged to him by royal decree. He's only half-Volz." Still, there was no expression in her voice and in her eyes. The men were frustrated on not being able to read her.

"And I am the king." Albert said.

There's no argument on that. Rhian looked away again while Nick felt helpless. How could he make her his again? He was about to say something when she beat him to it.

"May I be excused?" Rhian asks.

Nick closed his mouth.

"Why? I thought you're talking with Nickolas. He's your visitor and your fiance." Her father says.

"I would like to rest, Papa."

"It's alright with me, Your Majesty."

"Thank you." Rhian turned and walked away. Nick watched her go. His mind is running wild with thoughts on how to win her back and formally ask her again to marry him, especially now that he has the royal permission from her father. He really didn't have to spread the fact that he came from a noble clan, that he is a half-Volz. He is living a simple life. But he also knew how unfair it was for Rhian for keeping that side of his personality from her.

"There she goes," he heard the king said. Albert turned to him. "She spoke to us, at last. I always knew that only you can make her speak to us aside from my sister. I'm trusting you, Nickolas. I know how much you love her despite everything. Take care of her."

"I will, sir."

Albert nodded as he patted him on the shoulders. When they turned, they saw Howie leaning against the wall, his arms across his chest. A grin crossed his face.

"Actually, I'm the first one she spoke with," his grin grew wider, "during breakfast and before she comes here." He straightened up and walked towards them. "You owe me your horse, Papa."

Nick never thought he would see the natural laugh of the king. Wait, they took bets?

"You don't have a proof, son."

"Then what's the use of the security cameras in the dining hall?" Howie chuckled.

"Alright," Albert drew a deep breath. "By the way, meet your future brother-in-law, Nickolas Carter, the Viscount of Dorotea. And Nick, this is my son, Howard. I believe you were not properly introduced before."

Nick saw the surprised look from Rhian's brother. He extended his hand to shake his. "I am honored to meet you, Your Royal Highness."



>> 23


























23

Nick is smiling as he goes out of the jewelry shop. Nobody can ruin his mood now that the king had his plans on the way for his engagement with Rhian. He called his parents and asked them to go to Volzenburga. They wondered why and he told them that he is getting married to the king's youngest daughter and they have to come to a traditional family acquaintance at the palace. They were surprised. They didn't expect it to happen since they knew that he already broke up with the princess.

When his uncle, who lives in Dolores, a province in the countryside, heard about the news, he was happy. Nick realized how important it was for their family. His uncle, Arnulfo, told him that when he becomes a prince, their family will earn one nobility rank higher, an honor he will bring to the Dorotea clan. His uncle will be granted the title of the Marquis. He is going to be a prince, to be granted by his marriage to Rhian.

It matters a lot to Nick's family but it mattered to him more that he is going to marry Rhian. But of course, he had to court her first. He wants her to marry him because she would love to, not because she was only compelled to. He doesn't want to make her do something she didn't want to, no matter how much it will hurt him.

Earlier, he had a meeting with his friend, Ophelia, to ask her to create a jewelry set that he designed last night. His sisters were wondering about the drawing on the design pad in front of him and that was when he broke the news to them. Everyone was glad except Leslie. She's apprehensive. She told him that unless he proposed marriage to Rhian properly without too much of a pressure from the betrothal and she accepted wholeheartedly, she will not expect a wedding. Nick respected her opinion and he promised that he will court Rhian, win her back and propose to her again... all of that in particular order.

"Nick, what did you do inside?"

"I just made some window shopping," he answered the paparazzi who surrounded him in an instant.

"Is it true that you and Princess Rhian are getting married?"

Nick raised an eyebrow, still there's a smile on his face. "Where did you get that?" He shakes his head and went inside his car. When he drove away, he noticed a black car followed him within a distance. The royal staff already informed him about the bodyguards, designated by the king, in disguise to watch over him. He doesn't want it but he didn't have a choice.

He opened his car stereo and POD rang inside his dark blue Mercedes. It was a gift from his uncle when he graduated college. A few years later, he and his friends acquired a landscape architectural firm. Despite his noble rank and family's wealth, he made it a point that he has a job. It was self-fulfilling. It was different. And he's sure that wherever his grandparents were, they were looking down on him with pride because of what he has become without using what he inherited since birth.

His phone rang. He turned off the stereo first before answering it. "Why are you calling, Aaron?" He asks his brother.

"You didn't tell me that you made an achievement for the family's name. I wonder what Uncle Arnie is doing right now." Aaron laughed on the other line.

"You should have seen his wide smile. He looked like a dork," Nick snickered. But he loves his uncle. Arnulfo is his second father, especially when he had settled himself in this country many years ago and was trained by him.

"Pick me up." Aaron said.

"I don't have time to go to the US, Aaron."

"Pick me up," Aaron said again. "I'm already here. I'm waiting at the airport."

"What?" Nick glanced at the black car who is now behind him. He turned the hazard lights on. "Why didn't you tell me?"

"Duh, I called. Angel answered the phone. They knew."

"Well, I don't know. Wait for me there. I'm on my way."

"Are you on the road?"

"Yes," Nick went to the other side of the road towards the u-turn slot. "Bye, bro." He ended the call and turned.

After going through the traffic towards the airport, he was able to reach the arrival area. When he opened the door, one of the bodyguards was already beside him.

"Are we expecting someone, sir?" The security asks.

"My brother." He replied. Another one came and took his car and drove off. "Follow me if you want. I will look for him." He started walking. "He called and I didn't expect that he's coming." He further explained. When the bodyguard didn't say anything, he only shrugged.

He tried to call Aaron but he wasn't answering his phone. He spotted his brother after a few minutes of scanning the crowd and going around the arrival area. They greeted each other with a hug. "Did Mom and Dad know about this?" He asks.

"I have their permission. Jake is taking over the business for a while. I can't pass up this chance to join the family for the tradition. So I went here as soon as I got a ticket online." Aaron replied. There were informed about a royal tradition that the man should bring his family to formally ask the princess' hand in marriage. For some reason, it didn't happen to Rhian's sisters. This is the first time for the king to receive the family of his future-in-laws.

"I'll take you home. I still have to go to Palacio to see Rhian." Nick pushed the cart.

"How is she?"

Nick shrugged. "She looked fine. I only talked to her once so I will try it again today." He will do what he can to make her see that he will always be there for her no matter what happens. And he's grateful for this intervention from the king to betroth them.

Aaron leaned closer to whisper to him. "You have bodyguards?"

"Royal orders," Nick muttered. He wears his sunglasses. When they got out of the arrival area, his car was there waiting.

"Wow. This is going to be great," Aaron chuckled as he went in the backseat. The bodyguard puts the luggage in the trunk after gesturing Nick to get in the backseat as well. They are driving them home.

"I'm still trying to get used to it." Nick said when the car sped off.

"Well, I'm used to it." Aaron leaned back. "Dad acquired this big company recently. We were able to make it grow more. His assets tripled, making him richer than the Bloombergs. We advised him to get security for everyone."

"And our sisters were not telling me because?" Nick frowned. Their sisters didn't tell him that they can be in trouble. Sometimes, it pays to be this privileged. He saw the concerned look from Aaron.

"We don't want you to worry. You've got the princess to think about. Besides, they actually came here for a break."

"That's not an excuse. I should know." Nick sighed. "I'm going to talk to those three."



~~~



Portia happily smiled when she saw her boss finally emerging in to the familiar employees' hall and making her way towards her office. She was informed by Mr. Tobias that Princess Rhian will be going to the office for a short visit. She will not yet perform her duties but will be there to check on things. When Portia heard this, she immediately arranged the office. She missed the princess. Despite the rumors that went around that she's a stuck up and the snobbish one, Portia found Rhian's company a pleasant one to be with. She never experienced being discriminated and the princess valued her presence. So, she's happy that Rhian is coming. She even baked some chocolate chips in which the princess loved so much.

"Good day, Your Highness," Portia formally greeted when Rhian arrived the office. She noticed the change with the bodyguards, all females. She smiled at them.

"Is that for me?" Rhian looked at the bouquet of flowers that Portia is holding.

"Yes, ma'am. It is from me. I'm glad to see you again, Your Highness." Portia also gave her a plastic tub of her favorite cookies. "And I also made these."

She saw a smile dawned in the princess' face. "Thank you, Portia. I miss you, too." She was surprised when the princess hugged her. When they pulled apart, the bodyguards were looking.

"I also made cookies enough for the staff, ma'am. They might want to test the cookies first before you eat them." Portia said.

"You don't mind, do you?" Rhian asks as one of the bodyguards stepped closer.

Portia smiled. "No, ma'am. It's alright."

"Thank you for these. They're beautiful," Rhian said again about the flowers.

"Oh, ma'am. They were just mine. You should see your office."

"Huh?"

The door was opened for them by the bodyguards and Rhian's eyes widened by the abundance of colorful flowers, from the simplest to the most exotic ones. They were everywhere she turned.

"They were sent by Mr. Carter, Your Highness," she heard Portia said. She is holding a bouquet of daisies in different colors. A card was presented to her. She read it, trying not to blur her eyes by the touching sight.

My Dearest Rhian,
I hope you like them. I love you.
Yours truly,
Nick

"When did this arrive?"

"An hour ago. I have to put the air-conditioning on full-blast to maintain the freshness of the flowers, Your Highness." Portia watched as Rhian looked at each flower arrangements in her office. There is the usual twinkle in her eyes. Portia knew it is because of Nick Carter. She is happy to see that glow in the princess' eyes again. Many didn't know how the princess is deeply in love with her real-life prince charming. The phone rang on the desk and she went to answer it. "Kindly hold for a while, Sir." She turned to Rhian. "It is Mr. Carter, Your Highness."

Rhian nodded. "Please leave for a while." She took the phone. "It's Adriana." She answered. Her voice is monotone. She controlled her excitement.

"Uh, hi. It's Nick."

"I know."

There was silence for a while.

"Thank you for the flowers." Rhian tells him. She imagined him smiled and she wished he would kiss her if they see each other again.

"I hope you like it, Rhian. Can I see you later?"

"Why?"

"Because I want to see you."

"You know the drill." Rhian took one red daisy and marveled at its beauty. It is the simplest and most humbling flower. And Nick knows that it is one of her favorites.

"Okay. I have to go."

She stared at the phone when she hung up before he does. Did she just agree that he will come over to see her? She quickly turned to leave the office. She needs to freshen up and prepare herself. Nick is coming.

And she's actually excited.



~~~



Rhian glanced at her blinking mobile phone right after she got dressed to meet Nick, who, as told, was already in the Sitting Area and waiting for her. And while waiting, Drew and Alex were keeping him company. She was also informed that he brought his siblings with him and they were being toured around the palace. It made her nervous and wondered how will they accept her as a sister-in-law when she marries Nick.

The caller ID didn't recognize the number that was calling her. She answered it anyway.

"Hi, princess."

Blood must have drained from her face when she recognized the voice. Giorgio.



>> 24


























24





>> 25


























25





>> 26


























26





>> Epilogue


























Epilogue





THE END