Chapter 17: A Risky Scheme

Prince Alexander stood before his father, King Maximilian, a fire burning in his eyes. The proposal agreement with Princess Victoria lay crumpled on the table, discarded and forgotten. His heart refused to accept such a union, knowing that his true love lay elsewhere.

"I cannot go through with this, Father," Alexander declared, his voice firm and resolute. "My heart belongs to another, and I will not betray my own feelings for the sake of political alliances."

King Maximilian's face contorted with anger and disappointment. "You dare defy me, Alexander? Do you not understand the importance of this alliance? It is for the good of Arondale, for the good of your future , son!."

"But what of love, Father?" Alexander retorted, his voice filled with desperation. "What good is an alliance if it is devoid of true affection? I cannot marry Princess Victoria while my heart yearns for another."

The king's eyes flickered with a dark intensity, his anger simmering beneath the surface. He had grown