Alessandra was surprised that Prince Adam had returned so early; He wasn't expected until the evening or so she thought. She couldn't contain her excitement as she smiled widely at the idea. She had read more into many of the political issues and historical issues, improving greatly, and she couldn't wait to share her newly found knowledge and opinion with Adam, who was basically the only person who cared enough to enlighten Alessandra. She glanced at Prince Adrian as they made their ways through the castle hallways, heading to the Throne room. Not once had she given her opinion or voiced her thoughts-- Politically-- around Adrian, knowing that he wouldn't appreciate it. She found herself craving slightly the interest Adam gave her but from Adrian. She felt her cheeks heat up slightly-- [i]Such a silly thought.[/i] 

She followed closely behind Adrian into the Throne room. She was surprised to find a very-- breath catching Princess standing there in front of the King and Queen. Her chest tightened as her thoughts got confirmed. It was Adrian's arranged wife. Alessandra suddenly felt self conscious in her horse riding attire and hair in a high ponytail. She gulped slightly as the Princess addressed Adrian with so much femininity and shyness that it made Alessandra inwardly roll her eyes. He took her hand and kissed the back of it. She found the realization hit her; Was that Adrian's type of woman? Alessandra was no where as feminine, shy, or [i]polite.[/i] Her chest tightened even more as she stared at Adrian. His expression did not change much, but something told her that he may actually like such a respectable lady-- Of royal blood, beautiful, and a perfect representation of feminine. 

[i]If I was to marry someone like you, a commoner..[/i] The words from a few months ago popped up in her head. She shook her head: She was just serving Adrian, and he only appreciated her and saw her as that. Only.

For an unknown reason, it made her heart hurt. 

Alessandra bowed slightly to the Princess as she took her leave with her handmaiden and guards. She listened closely to the King. [i]Only six months.[/i] She thought as she felt disappointment settle in her. She looked back at Adrian. 

''[color=97228f]Congratulations your majesty. This is such a great step, a beautiful lady too.[/color]'' She beamed as they took their leave: Despite her sense of disappointment and somewhat underlying anger, she did genuinely feel happy for Adrian.