Page 55 of Broken Desires
Caught, Henrick grimaces, and Astrid quickly apologizes with a sheepish grin.
“They’re due to land in about an hour,” I inform them, unable to suppress a smile at the mention of Vanessa. “You’ll meet them all then.”
Astrid’s excitement visibly grows at the news, her romantic heart always on her sleeve, likely fueled by her endless consumption of K-dramas.
Since receiving that text, part of me braced for a follow-up message, one where she might reconsider her decision to attend the coronation. It’s not that I doubt her willingness to support me—I do trust her. It’s just that acknowledging the enormity of stepping into my world all at once is daunting even for me.
But then, today, as the plane took off, I found myself checking the flight manifest. Seeing her name among the passengers did more than confirm her arrival; it stirred a mix of excitement and apprehension within me. She’s only known the side of me I chose to reveal, the version of me that existed outside the confines of my royal obligations. Now, she’s about to be immersed in a world starkly different from anything she’s known—a world I navigate daily, but one that’s far removed from her reality. My biggest hope is that she won’t be overwhelmed by it all because if she isn’t, I’m clear about what I want next: to keep her in my life, somehow.
“What are you scheming over there?” Henrick’s voice breaks into my thoughts.
Astrid, ever eager to lighten the mood, chimes in with a grin. “Looking for romantic pointers? Look no further; I’m your expert.”
“I’ll remember that,” I reply, noting the genuine enthusiasm in Astrid’s eyes, a rare sight since our father’s passing. It’s good to see her spirits lifted, and I’m keen to maintain this atmosphere.
Henrick scoffs teasingly. “Yeah, if you’re aiming for bubble tea dates and hand-holding sessions.”
Astrid’s retort is quick, her cheeks blooming with embarrassment. “There’s more to it than that, Henrick!”
“You seem quite informed on the subject, little brother,” I observe, not missing the chance to turn the tables on Henrick, who now sports a blush of his own.
Right then, my computer pings—a reminder of my impending meeting with Hank and the prime minister. Reluctantly, I stand, acutely aware of the significance of this encounter. The prime minister hasn’t exactly hidden his reservations about my youthful ascendancy to the throne. At twenty-two, I understand his concerns, but I’m determined to prove him, and any other doubters, wrong.
“I’ve got to meet with the prime minister, but listen,” I say, my tone turning serious as I address Henrick and then Astrid, “if my friends arrive before I’m back, be on your best behavior. Don’t scare them—or her—away.” My mind whispers Vanessa’s name, the unspoken focal point of my request. “And please, no antics that might tip off Mom. I need this time.”
With that, I leave them, my steps heavy with the weight of leadership yet lightened by the prospect of seeing Vanessa again, hopeful for what her presence at the coronation might bring.
“Excuse me for the delay,” I announce as I enter the room, the two men rising in acknowledgement.
Hank gives me a look that could cut through steel, his disapproval evident without a word being spoken. I can almost hear him lecturing in my head, A king is never late. A king doesn’t apologize. But as our gazes lock, my resolve hardens. Well, this one does, I counter silently, holding his stare with a quiet defiance.
The prime minister, perhaps sensing the tension, quickly extends his hand, breaking the moment. “Thank you for keeping our weekly meeting, especially so close to the coronation, Your Majesty.”
“It’s essential,” I respond, shaking his hand before taking my seat. “The nation doesn’t pause for ceremonies, and honestly, my part is simple enough—walk and sit.” I try to inject a bit of lightness into the situation, gesturing for him to sit as well.
His laughter is a bit forced, and from the corner of my eye, I catch Hank’s disapproving glance. Choosing to ignore it, I lean forward, eager to shift the focus to matters at hand. “So, what’s on the agenda?”
The meeting drags on, but the topic of environmental conservation is too close to my heart to excuse myself early. It’s a cause my father championed, one I’m determined to carry forward. By the time we wrap up, my friends have already arrived. I stand, leaving the conference room behind with a sense of urgency, my steps quickening as I head toward the salon, where I expect to find everyone gathered.
However, upon entering, it’s clear that only half the party is present. The boys and Henrick are lounging around, but there’s no sign of the girls—most notably, Nessa and Astrid are missing.
“King Alexander,” Cole greets me with an exaggerated bow, prompting a snicker from Henrick.
“I like him,” Henrick declares, amusement evident in his tone.
“You’re the only one,” I retort, unable to suppress a scowl.
“Your brother obviously has far better taste than you,” Cole fires back, rolling his eyes at my disdain.
I glance at Ethan, seeking an ally, only to receive a noncommittal shrug—his subtle revenge for the white lie about my true identity.
With a sigh, I decide to cut to the chase. “Where are the girls?” I ask, bypassing their banter.
“The girls or Nessa?” Cole probes, a glint of mischief in his eye—clearly, this is his form of payback.
“Oh, you know about Vanessa?” Henrick jumps in, curiosity piqued.
Cole drapes an arm around Henrick’s shoulders. “Oh yes, totally. I’ll tell you everything you want to?—”