Chapter 244

The evening air was filled with an air of anticipation as we gathered for dinner with the royal family.

The palace was still in chaos as people behind the scenes were preparing for the ball tomorrow. Miraculously, the kitchen staff still had time to cater toward us for dinner.

I was led into the grand dining hall by Miriam, wearing a gold, silk dress that had been delivered to by room.

I wasn't sure why the Prince was still gifting me dresses, but I thought it would be best to go along with it like Lucas had advised.

Play the part... that's all I had to do for now.

The grand dining hall exuded elegance, illuminated by the soft glow of candlelight dancing off the intricate silverware and opulent decorations.

When I entered the room, I noticed that everyone else was already seated. I was particularly surprised to see that the Queen was finally joining us for dinner. She sat in the seat beside the Alpha King, and Prince Alexander sat across from her.

On the Prince's left was Lucas, who didn't look too happy to be sitting next to the young heir.

Miriam gestured for me to take the open seat beside the Queen, who greeted me with a warm smile. I returned the gesture, feeling a sense of ease in her presence.

"That's a lovely dress, Shana," the Queen commented as I sat. "I think I have something similar."

"Thank you, Your Highness," I replied, smoothing down the fabric of my dress. "I'm glad you like it."

The Queen chuckled softly. "Oh, yes. It's amazing how similar our tastes can be sometimes."

As I settled into my seat, my eyes inadvertently drifted to Prince Alexander, who flashed me a playful smile.

His mischievous demeanor never failed to catch my attention, and I couldn't help but feel a twinge of curiosity about what he was up to.

Once I took my seat at the table, the King clapped his hands together, his voice booming through the room, "Welcome my esteemed guests! Tonight, we feast in anticipation of the grand ball. It will be a night to remember, with guests from far and wide gracing us with their presence."

The Queen smiled warmly, her eyes sparkling with enthusiasm. "Indeed, it will be a splendid affair. This palace hasn't seen guests in so long, but it seems like times are slowly changing."

The Queen's gaze met my own, and I couldn't help the blush that fell over my cheeks, knowing she was referencing me being the change.

Prince Alexander, however, seemed less enthused, his expression clouded with disinterest. He toyed with his food, his thoughts seemingly elsewhere.

"Obviously, this ball is a celebration of finding the White Wolf." The King pinned me with a stare. "You, Shana. But I think it would be in our best interest to keep that information private for the time being."

I nodded in agreement, understanding the need for discretion given the delicate situation.

"What will you tell guests is the occasion for the ball?" I inquired, curious about the King's plans.

The King leaned back in his chair, a sly smile playing on his lips. "I've decided to tell our guests that the ball is for Prince Alexander. It's about time that he starts thinking about his future, and what better way to do that than to find himself a wife?"

All eyes turned to Prince Alexander, who sat in silence, his expression unreadable.

"Something on your mind, Alexander?" the King inquired, noticing his son's lack of enthusiasm.

The Prince sighed, setting down his utensils. "It's just... I'm not particularly looking forward to the ball, Father. The thought of being surrounded by a horde of eligible suitors is hardly appealing."

The King chuckled, clapping his son on the back. "Nonsense, my boy! It's all part of the grand tradition. Besides, it's high time you found yourself a suitable match."

Kendrick, interjected smoothly. "Your Majesty, I too have been wanting my son to start thinking about the future with the Busch business. Prior to being romantically involved with Shana, he was engaged. I think it would benefit him greatly."

"Thank you, Kendrick." The King smiled, apparently glad someone was on his side.

Kendrick took advance of the King's sudden attention and said, "Of course, Your Highness. Us fathers seem to know our children's interests best, and sometimes marriage is a business. Speaking of business, may I ask how the trade with the neighboring territories is faring?"

The King's face lit up with enthusiasm as he launched into a detailed explanation of the kingdom's economic affairs.

As the dinner drew to a close, I excused myself, feeling the weight of the day's events catching up to me.

"I think I'm going to turn in early and go get some rest," I announced.

"Yes, Shana, that's a good idea," the Queen spoke from beside me. "You have a big day ahead of you."

To my surprise, Prince Alexander rose from his seat, "Let me walk you to your chambers. I'm also feeling quite tired."

"Are you sure, son?" the King asked, giving his son a quizzical stare.

The Prince nodded, gesturing for me to walk towards the door. I stole a fleeting glance at Lucas who was eyeing the Prince suspiciously.

I couldn't blame Lucas. I was also confused as to why the Prince wanted to retire for the night.

The two of us began to walk through the dark corridors of the palace in a comfortable silence.

It was a stark contrast to our previous interactions, and I couldn't help but feel a sense of curiosity.

"Is everything alright, Prince Alexander?" I ventured, breaking the silence.

He sighed, running a hand through his hair. "I owe you an apology, Shana. I haven't exactly been the most pleasant company lately."

Surprised by his sudden sincerity, I halted in my tracks, turning to face him. "Why the change of heart?"

The Prince hesitated, his gaze averted. "The truth is, my father has been pressuring me to find a wife. He wants to present me as a suitable match for the eligible young ladies at the ball, as you heard."

"Sorry," I said sheepishly. "I feel like that partly my fault since he doesn't want to announce I'm the White Wolf."

"It's not your fault," he started. "My father has always been like this. But I... I don't want to be forced into love. I hate putting on a part and pretending to be someone I'm not."

His words struck a chord within me, reminding me of the struggles that Lucas had to go through with his father a few months ago.

Forced relationships and arranged marriages was something nobody should ever have to go through if it was against their will.

"I understand," I murmured, offering him a reassuring smile. "You have every right to feel that way. Nobody should be forced to love someone else."

"It's just hard trying to explain that to my father," Prince Alexander said. "I mean, he married my mother because he fell in love with her. I don't understand why he wouldn't want the same future for me."

"Maybe you should talk to your mother about it," I reasoned. "She seems more level-headed and understanding."

As the weight of our conversation settled, Prince Alexander's shoulders relaxed slightly, and he nodded in acknowledgment of my suggestion.

"You're right," he admitted, a hint of gratitude in his eyes. "I could try asking my mother. I've been avoiding the topic with her, but perhaps it's time I seek her counsel."

"Sometimes, a mother's perspective can offer clarity in ways that fathers cannot," I offered, remembering my own mother.

Sometimes, she was able to sway my father's opinion. Mother's always tend to have a more gentle touch and approach to things.

I felt a pang of sadness as I thought about my parents who were no longer here, but I tried to push those feelings aside. Right, now I needed to be here for Prince Alexander and what he was going through.