Hashih

The Betrothed

In several occasions of a royal’s life, he or she would undergo immunotherapy for known poisons. Thanks to dedicated toxicology researches, it was made possible to strengthen and train the human immune system such that it was able to effectively eliminate these identified threats to the human body. It was not always a pleasant procedure, but it was a valuable breakthrough in the medical field that eliminated the need for a food tester while at the same time minimizing the exposure of the kingdom’s leaders to risks of death through poison.

The procedure was not exclusive to the royal family though. It was available to anybody who had pockets deep enough to fund the steep prices that specialized doctors and hospitals charged. Unfortunately, Rhiane neither had the money nor the status. It was probably part of the plan that she would be placed under the same program, but the urgent need to project a positive image had pushed the princess elect’s health aside in favor for the newly engaged couple’s trip around the kingdom. It was only that afternoon after he saw her prone form on the bathroom floor that Luke realized how vulnerable the woman was. He couldn’t shake the image off his head, couldn’t bring himself to stop thinking about the possibility of hearing bad news from his second cousin who had promised to update him about the farmer’s status. Even as he took his place among the elite to pretend that everything was in order, the crown prince kept checking his communication band for any other updates.

The platter and glass were already cleared off the table when he returned.

Alec, noticing the visible restlessness on the royal’s fine features, leaned his body slightly towards the other man. “You don’t have to stay, your highness. I can ask other senior officers, or even Lord Castilliogne, your uncle, to give the awards.”

Luke shook his head. Sophia had not uttered a word since he claimed back his seat. “I appreciate your offer, but I am protecting Rhiane by being here. I will not allow whoever is behind that cowardly act an ounce of triumph by admitting that they have achieved their goal to hurt either me or my mother via Rhiane.” A person at the top of the hierarchy of power always had the greatest number of enemies. The rebellion was what the common people was most familiar with, but beneath the pretense of friendship and loyalty among the aristocracy was a constant power struggle. To blame the attack on the rebellion would have been the safest course of action if it would not raise panic among the citizens of the capital. But panic would often translate to loss in confidence, and loss in confidence would often lead to a revolution. On the other hand, the same organization being honored that afternoon could be the propagator of the scheme. The appetizers and wine were served by them anyway. Besides, Evolab was a biotechnology company. “I will leave after the awarding ceremony, but this incident will not end after I step out of the building. Whatever happens to the princess elect, the crown expects Evolab to cooperate in the investigation that will follow. Every camera footage, every supplier for this evening, every invitation sent to your guests – it will be asked from you and you shall comply.”

“I will personally ensure the cooperation of my people within legal bounds, of course.”

True to his word, Luke only stayed long enough to hand out the awards for exceptional employees, among other things. He managed to keep a pleasant smile for the cameras, but truthfully, he was not paying attention to most of what was said during the event. Instead, he was listening to the exchange between the traffic command, his security team, and most importantly Tobias. Even Sophia, who offered him wine that she secured from one of the waiters and asked him to stay, was declined.

When he said that she was admitted into the medical facility, the crown prince sighed audibly. Tobias and Nolan, who came back to the castle with her, were placed on quarantine for their own sakes. It was six in the evening. Shadows had fallen on the main roads of capital, dispelled only by the street lights and the headlights of the passing cars. Luke could not bring himself to check his mails as was his habit. The queen had checked in on him more than twice since the incident was reported to her. He assured her that he was fine, that he thought Rhiane was the target and not himself, and that it was unnecessary to deploy more people from the royal guards. Queen Camilla did the latter despite her son’s reassurances.

With the help of a faster mode of transport via a hovercraft, it took less than an hour for Luke to be able to make it back to the castle. He went straight to the medical tower where he guessed Rhiane was being treated. Callista was there, wearing casual jeans and a plain shirt, looking more like a commoner than a princess. She sat on one of the benches, but hastily ran to her brother as soon as she saw him.

“Any news?”

The princess shook her head. “I heard what happened from mother. They have been in there since I got here.”

Just then, a message stole Luke's attention. Thinking it might be an update regarding the investigation, he quickly opened it.

Will I see you tonight?

The Betrothed

Avoiding eye contact was not as easy as he thought it would be, even when his beautiful fiancée met him with an obligatory compliment as he took his place between her and Alec Wescott. It didn’t help that the COO leaned against his elbow towards Luke and started raising questions about the trade agreements and his interpretation on how it would affect the economy of a superpower like New Rome. Not that the topic did not interest the crown prince, on the contrary the expatriate’s points were both valid and compelling, but the businessman’s spot forced Sophia into Luke’s line of vision. If they had met under different circumstances, they could have been business partners or perhaps even friends. However, the royal was still uncertain about the unprecedented betrayal of the woman he risked his very reputation for. The sentiment, unfortunately, extended to Alec Wescott.

The two men were very much engaged in their hushed discussion that Sophia was left with the dwindling wine in her glass as she listened to the host narrating a milestone of Evolab. Luke allowed himself a glance once in a while wondering if his decision was a good idea. She was the one who wanted their secret affair to stop for both their sakes, but she knew as much as he did that it was a lie. In the end, the conversation inside the anteroom ended with an argument that neither won. And even then, he agreed to, once again, try to beat the odds and meet with her after dinner. He would just have to be persuasive in raising his point to the queen.

In the middle of his explanation of the proposed tariff policy to protect the local agricultural industry, he felt the notification buzz on his wrist. Instinctively, his eyes wandered to the source of interruption. The short and informal sentence cut his short.

Poisoned?

“Is everything alright?”

Luke’s blue eyes traveled from the reassuring smile on Alec’s face to the almost finished platter of appetizer and half-filled glass of wine that the waiters had yet to retrieve. “I am not sure how to answer that. Excuse me.” He retrieved a black earpiece from his pocket, fitting it on one ear as he purposefully walked from the table. With a fluid gesture on the gadget on his wrist, he opened the encrypted communication line between him and his security team. It was designed for immediate response should an emergency happen. If possible, his personal guards, at least those who were in the venue, stood more alert. They expected trouble, but the program went on like clockwork with nothing, not even a strand of hair on the host’s wig was amiss.

“Your highness?” Confusion was apparent in the bodyguard’s voice.

“Watch the table for me,” Luke instructed. It didn’t help explain what was wrong, but none of the men would disobey a direct order from their future king. “Follow whoever will pick-up Rhiane’s glass and plate. ID the person, but do not engage. Is that clear?” Unfortunately, Tobias was not enrolled in the same frequency, but he should be now that he was assigned to Rhiane.

“Your highness, I sense that there is something wrong,” Nolan interrupted. He made a hand signal to his comrade to keep watching the table as Nolan moved to meet the prince.
“Rhiane might have been poisoned,” he whispered through the communication line. “It is too early to tell, but not at all impossible. Our priority is to get help for her discretely.”

With Nolan in tow, he turned to the alcove where he saw Rhiane and his second cousin disappear into. From the long hallway, he saw a crack on the women’s room’s door. Thankfully nobody was present in the area, not even the cleaning staff. When he pushed the door open, the scent greeted him before the unsightly scenery did. “Rhiane,” the name escaped his lips and before he was thinking straight and calling people who could help, Luke was advancing towards the barely conscious woman. The anger of being unable to foresee it happening, of being unable to protect one woman, of being vulnerable through another person, vanished at the sight of the feisty farmer defeated by whatever poison she had ingested. He realized then that all she had shown him was the formidable strength of a woman, even after facing cold weather, or injury. To see her in that state made him feel something else other than anger.

“You can’t.” Nolan stood on his way, blocking his path and shaking him awake. “I’m sorry, but you can’t take a step closer, your highness.”

“He’s right,” added Tobias. “The poison can be anything at this point, even a biochemical weapon. Therefore, you are advised to keep distance, your highness.”

Of course. His life was more precious than the farmer’s. She was dispensable, a vessel that they would throw away once her purpose was served. If she died, it would be a challenge to arrange for another nationwide search, but it was not impossible. Luke composed himself, but did not comment. Instead, he switched to the commercial networks and dialed Sophia. It took three rings, but the actress picked the phone up. “Sophie, give the phone to Wescott.”

“Alec?” She was whispering on the handset. “Seriously? Luke, you were just talking to my boyfriend.”

Luke sighed. The more minutes they spent, more risk was injected into the princess elect’s situation. “Sophie, please. I have no time for this. Just pass the damn phone.”

“Prince Alessandro, you asked for me?” If confusion could be heard, he heard it clearly from the COO’s voice. Not five minutes ago, the two gentlemen were having a fine conversation, then the prince walked out on him and now he was calling the COO with urgency.

Luke explained the situation in the briefest possible manner. Alec, afraid of the ghosts that haunted the company, promised to cooperate and lend one of the company’s hovercrafts on the fourteenth floor gate. He explained that there was an exit in the anteroom that led to a lobby. Nobody should bother them should they choose that route because it was a company holiday. The building, save for the locations that was part of the itinerary, was practically empty.

“Rhiane, if you can hear me,” Luke said, after he explained the plan to both Nolan and Tobias. “Don’t worry, you will be fine. Dr. Gulsvig will take care of you and I’ll be with you as soon as I can.” He nodded at the bodyguards, watched Tobias’ back as he carried the princess elect in his arms.

The Betrothed

Just like in every social function he attended, there was not a second when the crown prince was caught being idle. He was greeted, left and right, by people whose faces he barely knew – investors and businessmen, foreign dignitaries, high-ranking officers of the company, and of course lords and ladies and their offspring. It was easy enough to smile and nod and even hold a small conversation. This was his world, and these were the people he knew how to please even though at times their too obvious flattery would get in his nerves.

The royal moved from one group of people to another. There was no lack of invitation from his peers to join them in a short conversation. He laughed at their anecdotes and briefly shared his opinion when asked, but everything was half-hearted. If anybody in any of the group knew more of the man than his title, then it would be obvious to that person that his head was somewhere else. And it was. He was continuously scanning the room for that dark-haired beauty until he found her sitting with women her age and clinking glasses of champagne. When she looked up from the lip of the glassware, her eyes flickered to his and for a second, she seemed to not believe that he was there. Just for a second, though, because she quickly excused herself as he looked away with a witty comment at the tip of his tongue for his fellow investor. As Luke conversed, he tried to keep track of her in his peripheral vision. She seemed to be headed to an alcove, which led to either the bathrooms or the anterooms. Sophia turned to the direction of the anterooms.

And it was where he found her after a few minutes. “I cannot remember a time when you made me wait that long.” She was sitting on an armchair directly facing the door and was opposite what looked like a conference table, or maybe it was a dining table. The actress occupied the space that appeared to be the sitting area. The light of the afternoon sun coming through the glass panels behind her cast a shadow over her features.

Luke, not the least intimidated by her tone and posture, remained by the door. If by any chance somebody walked in on them, it would appear that the two of them were just having a personal conversation. It was a situation they could easily maneuver out of as long as they don’t stay out of the people’s eye sights long enough. “I find no reason to speak with you after what you said earlier today.” The words rang in the room even when he did not raise his voice. It was devoid of emotion, something like a doctor telling his patient that he had less than twenty-four hours left to live.

“And yet, here you are, my love,” the actress drawled, a smile tugging one corner of her red lips.

“I know, and the more I stay the more it feels like a bad idea. My fiancée is sitting out there, your newest play thing is too, and so do possibly hundreds of guests wondering where Luke and his rumored paramour have gone to. I cannot afford a repeat of the other night. Therefore, if you have something important to talk about, say it while I still have the patience to listen.” Acting was admittedly not his strong suit, but thanks to Sophia, Luke could gather enough coldness inside him to back those sentences. He wanted, more than anything else, for a chance to get back to how things were with Sophia before his engagement to a commoner. It might be farfetched, but he thought it was doable. It was just that the actress had to bring in a third party in an already complicated relationship.

The woman got to her feet. In her five-inch heels, her long legs closed the distance between them rather sinuously. He would be a hypocrite if he would say that he was not attracted to this woman in her tight cocktail dress. “I don’t want to lose you, Luke,” she whispered, laying her cheek on his chest. “I was selfish. I thought it will hurt less if I ended things with you, but I know now that there is a greater pain that exists than seeing you happy with that peasant, and it’s knowing that at the end of it all, I will not be there to stand by your side.”

“Then, better make up your mind, woman.” He let her stay where she was, but he fought against wrapping his arms around her. It used to be an instinctive gesture of affection. She loved being trapped in his arms when she felt vulnerable, and he took comfort in knowing that he could be her fortress. But everything had changed. She had made a move to change the dynamics that had worked well for the two of them. “It’s either me or Wescott. Either way, you get to live as a queen for the rest of your life.”

---

The master of ceremony again called the attention of the guests reminding them to find their seats. Luke had silently slipped into his after his second cousin vacated the post. He found out, though he was not surprised, that the COO and his date shared the same table as him and Rhiane. A polite nod and a smile were sent to the American’s way when the expatriate offered to start a small talk.

They didn’t wait long for the program to finally start. Luke went straight to reviewing his notes for the message that he came to deliver while the opening remarks was given by the Country Manager. On one hand, it was dutifully of him to come prepared. On the other hand, he wanted to avoid any conversation between him, the COO, and especially his date. But Rhiane was a different case. At one point during the speech of the Country Manager, Luke reached for her hand and entwined his fingers with hers without even looking at her face.

The opening remarks ended. Presentations about the company from its roots to where it was headed started and finished, as well as other numbers meant to entertain the guests. Luke went up the stage and made his piece about the talks of free trade, strong economic policies – especially on agriculture – and how biotechnology shaped the post-war era. He was a strong and credible speaker, who did not deviate on the topic of business. It was what he was good at, and the guests in attendance appreciated it because it was what mattered to them as well. It was in that crowd where the crown prince thrived, where no special treatment had to be made for him, because he did know what he was talking about and needed neither the rank nor the authority that came with it to push a strong message across.

When it was over, and the room exploded with applause and upbeat music, as it did with some speakers that went before him, Luke retreated back to his assigned seat. Wescott was there on his feet to meet him with a hand extended for him to shake, which Luke did for the cameras.

The Betrothed

“There he is, our future king,” the duke burst with pride upon spotting the heir tracing a straight line that led to him. He pointed his half-consumed wine to his nephew’s direction and like sheep to the shepherd, the lords and ladies he was conversing with turned their attention to Luke.

Lady Eladia Voight dragged her deep-set green eyes at the entirety of the tall gentleman’s appearance – from the top of his head to the tip of his boots, then the other way around. Any comment that might have formed in her head was left unsaid, but to anybody who knew the mannerisms of the forty-something woman, the thinning of those dark red lips would have been a subtle sign that she did not approve of their crown prince’s style choices. His good looks and that aura of confidence were his saving grace. Although she conceded that the man would look good even in rags, Lady Voight would argue strongly against it. Fashion was her business more than anybody’s in that ballroom and whatever these royalties wore would surely be the next fad. “I saw our beloved crown prince enter the venue with his fiancée.” She shrugged, her eyes not leaving its prey even as he drew closer. “Our future king has good sense, though, to have left her in her seat and not force us to pretend that we enjoy interacting with the common people. I mean, it’s exhausting to invent ways to flatter the unworthy, am I right?” Her pompous, modulated laughter was echoed by the others in way of agreement.

“Just be careful with that opinion around the prince,” warned another lord.

“Nonsense,” barked the duke. “My nephew is the worst out of all of us, everyone knows that.”

Lady Voight nodded. She lowered her voice when she replied with, “I mean, who in his right mind leaves his engagement ball to spend the night with another woman?” It was an open secret in court that contrary to what Queen Camilla declared on live broadcast, her son was not participating in a classified mission that night. Castello di Firanze would not be the home of the royals without rumors of scandalous affairs and acts bouncing off its glass walls. The other lords, satisfied with the example given, nodded in agreement. Unlike the general public that the crown sought to deceive, the highly educated men and women sitting near the top of the food chain were not fooled by the publicity stunt commissioned by the queen herself. They all new what the arranged marriage was all about, and oddly a significant portion of the nobility supported it.

The conversation was hushed, thoughtful faces and conflicting emotions were silenced as the subject of their discussion approached. The lords and ladies, all were at least five years older than Luke, made a customary bow as gesture of obeisance. Their future king, on the other hand, kept a straight, slightly bored expression on his face. “A pleasant afternoon, my lords and ladies,” he said in a manner of greeting.

“We were just talking about you, your highness,” the duke replied, addressing the younger man formally in public rather than being casual about his status. “For a while there I thought you opted to skip the event for something worthier of your valuable time.”

In the background, one of the hosts announced that the program will be starting in about twenty minutes but encouraged the attendees to help themselves with the small portions of appetizers being offered around by waiters. Luke waited for the masculine voice to finish his piece. “I can name a few somethings which I find are more worthwhile than socializing in an event such as this, my lord, but Evolab does provide employment for a number of our people. It contributes both to the manufacturing industry and the advancement in research, which is in alignment with the economic policies being supported by the queen.”

The duke’s light blue eyes crinkled in the corners when he grinned. “In other words, your mother will not be happy if you choose to not honor this commitment.”

“Precisely.”

The other lords and ladies joined the duke’s lighthearted laughter, but Luke only smiled. Precisely the people he wanted to avoid, which was why he could think of other things he would rather off doing. Just like finally meeting with and talking to the sender of the message that buzzed on his wrist while the older people were pretending to be amused.

“My prince, I happen to notice your fiancee is sitting with someone.” Lady Voight masked the malice in her sentence with the sweetness of her voice. At her comment, they all turned their attention at the princess elect and the undeniably attractive man occupying the seat that was once Luke’s. It was that precise moment when Rhiane was caught with a carelessly happy expression on her face as she was talking to the bodyguard. Luke had questions running in his head, but it was not the time to entertain such thoughts.

“I believe that he is the same person who escorted our princess elect to the venue,” added another lord. “Is he perhaps Miss Black’s old acquaintance?” The easiness in her body language was contrary to the stiff and formal manner with which she held herself around him. If he did not know better, he would be inclined to entertain the possibility suggested by the older man, but Luke knew Tobias and Rhiane. He was sure that the Victors ball was the first time the two met. And yet the lord had a point.

Luke’s expression did not change except for the split-second narrowing of the eyes. “Tobias Lavanchy,” he said the name as if the bodyguard was somebody the nobles should know of. Apparently, that was not the case. Not even the duke seemed to remember who it was. “Tobias is related to me by blood – second cousin, son of my father’s brother. As of this morning, he is Rhiane’s bodyguard.”

“Oh, I remember the little boy who used to play with you a lot.”

The crown prince smiled at that. “Yes, uncle. He’s the one.”

“But a male bodyguard?” the lady objected. “Shouldn’t she be assigned an equally capable female companion?”

“It is out of my hands, to be honest, my lady. Besides, I really do not care who keeps her company while I do what needs to be done.” The conversation was heading to a direction he would rather not cross, so Luke politely asked to be excused and left the group, parting the crowd of black suits as he did so.

The Betrothed

“Tobias,” he said the name thoughtfully as Luke tilted the wine glass to his lips for another sip. The dark liquid had a fruity aroma, but thankfully was not too sweet. He much preferred something with more alcohol content. Then again, even if the hall was decorated to look and feel like one of the parties that aristocrats hosted, that afternoon’s event was still a business function. Thus, the light-bodied wine being served to the guests. Even then, he noticed how Rhiane politely accepted the glass only to ignore it like she did in the last few meals he had shared with her. Her alcoholic preference was not his concern though. What was stuck in his head was Tobias Lavanchy, his second cousin. Rhiane had known the man for just a day and yet she spoke of him as if he was the most reliable person in the palace.

“It is still inconvenient to walk at a slow pace while assisting an injured lady. Sometimes I might even have to carry her. Tobias will not be much help in public – which I expect is where we will be spending most of our time.” A small smile tugged the corner of his lips. For those curious eyes stealing glances at them, he thought. The prince may be criticizing her poor choices, but he was not about to let everybody in attendance see how disappointed he was at such a small misstep that had cost him his freedom. “I commend you for standing by your choice, princess. I do hope you will not make a fuss about seeing Dr. Gulsvig when you aggravate the already aggravated ankle.” He raised his glass to her, inviting her to have a drink with him, but seeing that she would not touch her own glass of wine, shrugged and savored the bittersweet liquid.

But her apparent hesitation to see a physician was not the case when she was younger. She did admit to bringing her ailing mother to a doctor. Public Health was something he happily delegated to someone else entirely. He was not a physician and the intricacies of the factors that made the body sick was not his cup of tea. Embarrassing as it may sound, but he was not fully informed of what had really happened eight years ago, not even the statistics that detailed how many were infected and how many died. Was her version of the story the truth or was she, being at fault, trying to redeem herself by rewriting history?

Nevertheless, her outreach project would happen so long as she would not drag him into the mess of the bidding process, procurement, logistics, and coordination of the whole thing. He already had a lot on his hands to supervise a small initiative that would keep her busy and out of his way. Hopefully, he could also use it as means to frequently request the monarch to disable the implants.

“I cannot comment without enough knowledge on the matter,” the prince admitted his lack of information aloud. He did promise to be honest with her anyway, plus believing her statement would be admission that there was something wrong in the system, while denying her story all together would mean an undoubtedly very public disagreement. The latter was something neither of them needed. “Although I have to ask. Do you blame me for what happened to your family?” Could it be the reason why she had repeatedly rejected his romantic advances among other things that he was offering her for free? Well, except for the cannoli.

Luke watched her quietly, no longer pretending to be discussing a light topic with her. He thought about her response. If she said yes, then it explained why she was being oddly unattracted to him. On one hand, it was good because he didn’t need to worry about her taking his gestures to mean one thing when it meant nothing. However, on the other hand, it was an unsettling feeling to have failed and to have that particular failure cost the life of a dearly loved mother. He would, if he could, prevent the accident that killed his father. But like what Sophia said, not everything was under his control.

In any case, Rhiane was saved from answering at that moment by a call. Luke, already wary of emergency situations happening in the middle of the day, immediately checked who was calling. Then he sighed. “Sorry, this is my uncle.” The man got to his feet and waved across the room to one of the men in dark tailored suits. At least it was not an emergency. “I have to at least greet him or else he might be inclined to believe that his nephew lacks courtesy. I will introduce you to the duke later, but for now please enjoy your wine.” He nodded his head at Tobias, who had automatically turned his attention to Luke as soon as the prince got to his feet. No hand gestures or messages was needed. Tobias knew what to do, especially as Luke walked away from the table leaving Rhiane alone.

The Betrothed

“What?” Luke lowered his left arm where the communication band was snuggly fitted on his wrist, concealed by the sleeves of his gray uniform. “No… Sorry just a message. Nothing important.” It was not just a message. That single line was what he had been waiting for the whole day – the chance for a conversation wherein his words would not fall into deaf ears. It was the best indication that Rhiane, whether or not she was aware of it, succeeded in fulfilling her purpose that afternoon. Nevertheless, the crown prince was not eager to respond to the request for an audience, thus he turned his attention back to his accomplice. Not that he was dismissing his paramour’s demand, he was just delaying his move so as not to be interpreted as being weak-willed.

Luke leaned his weight on one side which was closest to his date. It might be the uniform that inspired her to use a military analogy to justify her unwise choice of footwear. “Soldiers are not allowed to operate a weapon without proper training on how to use such a weapon. Moreover, when a soldier is injured, Rhiane Black, he or she will not be deployed to the battlefield. I truly appreciate you coming on a short notice, but I find myself constantly worrying that your chosen pair of shoes, regardless of how sexy those are making you look, will lead to another accident.” He felt another message notification buzzed on his wrist, but it was ignored. “The queen informed me this morning that preparations for her planned tour were already completed. We will be leaving the capital tomorrow. So, please take care not to worsen the condition of your sore ankle or inflict the same injury on the other foot. It will be very inconvenient if that happens.”

As they were conversing, a waiter carrying a silver tray of half-filled wine glasses passed nearby. Luke motioned for the young man to come over with the intention of plucking a couple of glasses for him and Rhiane. The young man who was aware of the importance of the person who summoned him, hurriedly strode to the table and gracefully placed wine glasses on the table beside all the silver fineries. Thanking the young man, the crown prince took the glass that was his and took a small sip to sample its content.

Mr. Wescott was present at the corner of his vision. He was socializing with the other attendees, getting to know the investors of the organization, and creating relationships with the people in power whose decisions may impact the industry. Luke identified himself with the COO on that ground. They were both leaders who had people dependent on them and people who could either bring the organization to its goal or ruin it. For Evolab it was the investors, but for Luke it was the noble houses then the common people.

“Do you blame Evolab for your loss?” The question came out in the middle of his musings. He theorized that the reason she was very interested in the epidemic that affected the northern territories eight years before was that it might be what killed her mother and brother. Even so, it was not fair to blame it on a corporation who, in the end, had provided the cure for the said epidemic. There was only so much that a medication could do to help cure an ailing person. It might be that her family members had weak immune system to begin with, which made it easier for the viral infection to consume the host. “I do remember you saying that your mother and brother died of the same disease. What could a biotechnology company, whose vision is to provide cure, has to do with it when this same company developed the same drug that helped cure the victims?”

The device on his wrist vibrated signifying another notification. Another message from the actress, perhaps. Like him, she was not used to waiting, but the prince was inclined to make her wait. He did, after all, waited for more than an hour in the parking lot just to see her. And when she did make time for him, she had to ruin everything by telling him that she had someone else she would like to be exclusive with.

The Betrothed

Alec Wescott was not at all intimidated by the numerous requirements that the princess elect demanded as prerequisite for participation to the project that she would be organizing. An audit, a review of financial records, historical data on the company’s past charity work, and perhaps the capability of the company to react to an epidemic – these were all reasonable requests from a potential client, especially one affiliated to the crown. It was not something new to him, because on his way to becoming a COO, he had the pleasure of interacting with the different forms of governments throughout the globe. It was the farmer, who had taken him by surprise. The COO clearly underestimated the woman’s mental prowess because of her pedigree. She spoke and carried herself like an educated woman, which was not to be expected from a mere farmer.

Nevertheless, the foreigner managed to maintain his good-natured countenance. “I fully understand, Miss Black. Rest assured that Evolab will comply to all the requisites.” He turned to Luke. The woman may be the brains behind the outreach, but Alec recognized that her future husband was the real authority who could make or break the deal. “This will not be the first time that we will be engaging with a partnership with the government,” Alec continued, though he was addressing Luke directly that time. “Without meaning to boast, we’ve had successful health campaigns in the Americas and the kingdoms in the middle east, where we continue to partner with the Health Ministries or Departments – whatever they are called – in promoting better quality of life.”

The crown prince, on the other hand, was relishing the element of surprise that Rhiane brought to the table. She was his wildcard that afternoon – his secret weapon against Sophia and his against the young COO’s sweet talking. Both were working absurdly well. His ex-lover was struggling to control her composure, while her alleged new love was not getting the result he thought he would that afternoon. The quick dismissal of his sultry date was the cherry on top. Luke kept his face blank and businesslike, but deep inside he was proud of what the farmer had accomplished without his help.

“Just a moment, love,” Luke smiled at Rhiane, before addressing both the COO and the actress who had fallen inexplicably quiet throughout the exchange. “As I have mentioned, I do not usually involve myself in these types of projects. But I assure you, Mr. Wescott, that there will be a public bidding to give fair chance to every able party willing to support Rhiane’s cause. It will also work to dispel any doubt from the public’s minds that either I, my mother, or my future wife has played favorites. The matter on who gets to win the contract for this project will be left to the hands of the Bids and Awards Committee.” To anybody who knew where to find the information, every noble house’s assets was accessible. Annual reports summarizing their sources of income, properties, etc. were available to the public to show a semblance of transparency. Luke’s ownership of shares of Evolab was therefore not totally a secret. “Much as I would like to talk further about business, I’m afraid that we have to excuse ourselves.”

Alec was gracious enough to let them go without passing another argument that tried to sell the organization he represented. “It was a pleasure discussing a potential partnership with you, your highness and Miss Black. I am fully aware of Miss Black’s unfortunate accident the other night, and I rather suggest that she rest her foot. We have plenty of time to discuss business and economic matters later.” He gestured for one of the ushers to guide the couple to their table.

Luke thanked the COO and passed a glance at Sophia before turning to follow the woman tasked with leading them to their designated seats. He had a feeling that his plan was working and if her sudden lack of words was an indication, then he was correct.

“Whose idea was the stilettos?” the prince asked after a few steps. If he was smiling when he called her ‘love’ moments earlier, his voice was humorless asking her the question. She was not used to wearing heels and she already hurt herself while wearing a pair. Whoever had suggested that it was a good idea to don another pair must either be absurdly unwise or had ill-wishes towards the princess elect.

They reached a circular table covered in white table cloth with blue trimmings. Like a gentleman, he pulled her chair out for her and waited for her to take a seat before he did so himself. Four other empty chairs surrounded the furniture. “A simple ‘No’ would have sufficed,” he commented regarding her response to Evolab’s COO. “I must admit that I am impressed that you do not seem to be threatened by Alec Wescott’s stature. However, the epidemic eight years ago is very specific.” Then it hit him and when it did, when his mind was finally able to connect the dots, the prince’s lips fell into a flat line. Her mother and brother. He wanted to say something else, but a message caught his attention.

I need to talk to you, it said.

The Betrothed

With the way she stole precious glances and longing gaze at the crown prince, Luke could guess that Sophia Keller might have miscalculated her move. That the unexpected attendance of the farmer as consequence of her honesty was unprecedented. The actress’ jealousy was the gray overcast that shielded her better judgment leading to a gross misjudgment of her rumored lover’s reaction. Introducing a third party to the already complex relationship appeared to be a good plan when she first thought of it. Luke was notoriously possessive and protective of what he thought was his. By introducing a third party, who was equally accomplished and charming as the blue-eyed prince was, she should have accomplished to activate his possessiveness, which in turn would result with him fighting the odds to buy time for the two of them instead of secretly dating and sharing his space with the farmer.

Sophia’s countenance was politely attentive of the exchange between the Alec, who she had met a few years back when she was travelling, and Luke’s pet. She was a professional actress anyway. The muscles on her face, her body language, was hers to command. A small smile on her red lips and a gentle hand on Alec’s forearm caught the man’s attention. He smiled back. “Oh! Sophia, I’m so sorry.” The businessman’s brows shot up, he shook his head slightly then chuckled nervously. “You are a celebrity, but yes, it is not polite to not have proper introductions. Again, accept my apologies, your highness and Ms. Black. I’m sure you both know Sophia Keller, award-winning actress and singer.”

“I’ve had the pleasure of being acquainted with our crown prince,” Sophia put a lot of meaning behind her words, which one could interpret through the flirtatious girlish smile and sidelong glance at the royal. “But it is the first time that I have met you, Miss Black. May I call you Rhiane?”

“Miss Black will be fine, Sophia,” Luke answered before his amiable fiancée humored the actress. The last thing he needed was for the two to feign a friendly relationship that was grounded on the fact that they both acknowledged the other as the enemy and would rather keep her close. He did not need that kind of drama in his life. Oddly though, his plan might be working. “Mr. Wescott, corporations like yours surely has a budget for corporate social responsibility as your video loop repeatedly boasts. Our kingdom also has an allocated sum of money for such initiatives promoting the health of our citizens, especially the children.” He eyed Rhiane as if to tell her that yes, there is a budget that will subsidize her pet project. “Unfortunately, it is something that I don’t find myself getting involved with, but I may be able to help endorse the project. Please constantly remind me to make calls to the right people, Rhiane.”

“I understand, your highness. We will certainly get in touch. However, the only way such endeavor will be profitable from a marketing stand point is if the media will cover it.” Friendly as he might seem, Alec Wescott was still a businessman, whose end goal was to push their products to the market to improve the turn-around time of the stakeholders’ capital. He was not running a charity institution, therefore when he proposed to open a discussion with the princess elect, he had hoped to take advantage of the perceived low education level of the woman and make her advocacy a strategic partner of Evolab. “It is possible with your help, Ms. Black. As Prince Alessandro’s future wife and this kingdom’s future queen, there will be no lack of media coverage once you spearhead this project. It’s a win-win scenario for both you and I. My company gets its desired return-on-investment and you get to boost your public image as a compassionate ruler.”

Luke had a ready answer at the tip of his tongue, but he stopped himself from uttering that single syllable that would surely earn Rhiane’s disapproval. He was not being sensitive to her preferences. The gentleman kept his lips sealed because he wanted to see how the princess elect would answer this smart businessman’s proposition. There were rules governing him as a royal, which would be the same set of rules that she had to follow once they were married. But those rules technically did not apply to her at that moment. Unlike him, she could, if she chose, endorse a brand. He would be firmly against it, but she could do it for the sake of the cause she was fighting for.

If she would look to him for his opinion on the matter, as if his opinion ever mattered for her, he would just shrug.

The Betrothed

“No, you are perfect as you are. It is a business event more than a party, but these executives and investors sometimes confuse one for the other,” Luke answered as she took the arm he offered and prepared to move back into the building. “But I’m glad that you decided to come.” Whether he said it for the media coverage or for her alone, was unclear. Deep inside, he really did appreciate that finally there was somebody to share the burden with. It was a rule that he and his sister could not be in the same venue outside of the castle at the same time, except for special events that called for rigorous security measures. The same was true with the queen and Luke. Not that he expected the farmer to contribute to anything other than being a pretty figure on his arm, but at least he could have somebody else to talk to when the businessmen and lords tired him with their endless ass-kissing.

He was about to lead her on to the building and away from the camera flashes, when his cousin informed him about the medication he brought for their stubborn princess. “Hold on to it, for now,” he whispered back. “Join us inside the venue. I’ll call for you if she needs any of it.”

With that out of the way, Luke led his future wife back inside, taking care that their pace would not tax her enough that her ankle would ache. Although he much preferred that she had worn flat shoes, he conceded that the stilettos accentuated the shape of her legs, making her look a lot like a supermodel than the future queen. Heads turned when he re-entered the venue with Rhiane Black on his arm. Nobody expected the farmer-turned-princess to be in attendance. It was a place for business savvy intellectuals to mingle, not for peasants who fortunately had the face and semblance of a brain to win a contest that everybody in that room understood was a publicity stunt ran by the crown. But it would be social suicide for anybody to voice that opinion out loud. If his highness thought she was necessary to attend that afternoon, then everybody had to adjust. One thing was universally accepted though, Ms. Rhiane Black stood out.

A gentleman almost as tall as Luke politely approached the couple as they were headed to their designated table. “Your highness,” He bowed slightly from the waist in acknowledgment of the other person’s status, before straightening up. Luke knew him before he even introduced himself. Those brown eyes, slick blonde hair, and the smile that was the same in most every photo of him on the internet. “My name is Alec Wescott, the new COO of Evolab. I’m afraid we haven’t had the pleasure of meeting in person yet.” The American held out his hand.

Luke stared with question at the hand that he was supposed to shake, but managed a businesslike expression. Of all the people who would greet him, it just had to be the one he would rather not cross paths with. “The pleasure is mine, Mr. Wescott.” The invitation to shake hands and the polite smile of the businessman remained even though it was evident that the royal had no intention of honoring the invitation.

The tension was broken shortly with the intervention of another female guest. One that had much familiarity to the couple. “There you are, Alec,” she said sweetly. Then, figuring out what was happening, explained gently, “The crown prince does not shake the hands of common people. My apologies, your highness.” Her stylists and make-up artists did a good job of dressing her up for the occasion. The actress wore a glittery boatneck long sleeved cocktail dress that perfectly hugged her curves and made the visible skin look ethereal. Her thick black hair was pulled up in a classic updo, and her face had just the right amount of make-up to accentuate her natural beauty, not hide it.

“My sincerest apologies, your highness,” the foreigner echoed, bowing again.

Luke waved it off as cultural differences. “No offense taken, Mr. Wescott. By the way, let me introduce my fiancée, Ms. Rhiane Black.”

Sophia held his gaze as Luke casually, openly, introduced the farmer. There was a hint of something dark in her eyes that was absent in Luke’s when she purposefully looped her arm around the COO’s. They seemed to still be challenging each other when Alec acknowledged the princess elect. “Alec Wescott, at your service, Ms. Black. I have seen your interview last night. Might I comment that you are more beautiful in person. I also happened to recall that you mentioned about a vaccination program. Evolab has a wide array of offerings that may help you, that is, if you would like to open a discussion with our company.”

The Betrothed

The company’s headquarters, more commonly known as Evolab Biotechnology Campus, was a sprawling two-hectare property within the Industrial District of New Florence. It was home to the brain of the company’s operations in Europe and the Americas. The technologies it introduced to the post-war rebuilding helped civilizations thrive in lands devastated by humanity after it turned on biological warfare as means to annihilate enemy’s resources. At present, Evolab was a major supplier of medical devices and animal health products, but it was its contribution to the pharmaceutical industry that made it into the giant it was.

The Campus boasted cutting edge technologies used for advanced research and development, best in class manufacturing facilities, and fully automated unmanned distribution warehouses. It showcased the organization’s commitment to seek new technology for the advancement of the industry and the betterment of the quality of human lives. A tour of these areas was organized by the event staff as part of the agenda that afternoon. Much like the noble houses of New Rome, companies like Evolab enjoyed showcasing its wealth to people who mattered. That afternoon it was the major stakeholders, investors, and distinguished guests.

Being an influential future leader, Luke was both an investor and a distinguished guest. He owned shares of the company within the allowable figures, not enough to put him on the board of directors. Besides, neither he nor any member of his immediate family was legally permitted to hold any position in a company, unless it was partly owned by the kingdom. In such cases, dividends and profits would not go into his account but instead into the kingdom’s treasury.

“Welcome to Evolab, your royal highness,” was the polite greeting of a blonde woman who appeared to be in her twenties just as he and two other uniformed men were ushered into the function hall. “My name is Merissa. Please follow me to your table.”

Unlike the straightforward businesslike impression of the lobby, hallways, and offices, the venue had subdued blue lighting and lounge music that suggested a sophistication indicative of a nobleman’s lucrative lifestyle. At the far end of the room was a stage with a massive screen as its backdrop. It presently showed muted footage about the company’s work, its happy employees, and its commitment to preserve the environment, among other things.

Luke politely declined the offer of assistance to find his seat. It was not his first time to attend such an event and usually he was seated with the highest ranked officers of the corporation. Besides, he just received a very brief message from Tobias, which had surprisingly made him feel a little relieved that he would not be playing the charming politician alone that afternoon. He had spotted familiar faces among the crowd, which included titled lords and ladies such as his uncle, businessmen, and more importantly the ambassador from the far east.

All the more reason to turn his back to the polite usher and exit the hall. His decision to invite Rhiane might have been more beneficial than he thought. Two of his bodyguards, also dressed for the occasion, exchanged glances, but didn’t say a word. They followed him out and into the exit, ignoring the other sharply dressed guests as they politely greeted their crown prince. Luke nodded in acknowledgement, a purely instinctual gesture that he never even needed to think about.
The automatic sliding doors of the main entrance opened for the small party of men. Luke took off his sunglasses when he entered the building earlier, regretted not putting it back on as the warm afternoon glow filled hilled his vision faster than his eyes could adjust. Then again, the brightness did help him find her. It wasn’t difficult. She stood out from the crowd of reporters and other newly arrived guests. The low angle of the sun in the horizon emitted the perfect wavelength that inspired her skin to glow. He noticed it the day before at the beach and had to force himself to look away. She wore an ensemble that was not something revolutionary, but she wore it so well that it felt like it was the first time he was seeing it on a woman. It wouldn’t be surprising if pencil skirts would be popular, especially in court, in the coming days.

Men and women from the media parted like the red sea as the other royal guards joined the two that was with Luke to form a protective barrier around the man. All of them led to the princess elect, who was saying something to one of the last oblivious reporters. Tobias was a tall and imposing figure by her side. Luke paid him no mind, though.

“I’ll take it from here. Thank you, Dark Horse 3,” he said, nodding to his second cousin, unconsciously repeating the same words he said during the engagement ball. Then to the woman who allegedly came to support him, he allowed himself to smile. For the cameras, he thought.

“I’m glad you decided to come,” He offered his arm, but raised a brow at the stilettos. The warm smile remained on his lips, but the gears in his head were already turning. If not for the press, he would have already asked her whose idea was it to make her wear those tall, thin, heels, and why did she agree. He felt another argument coming, but it could wait until they were out of earshot. “Let’s go inside. The party is just about to start.”