The Prince's Heart by Ben Chalfin

Author:Ben Chalfin [Ben Chalfin]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: anonymous
Published: 2024-12-04T00:00:00+00:00

The time after my coronation is busy, busier than I’ve ever been in my entire life. Just getting used to being king—a role I never imagined I’d be thrust into, even in my worst nightmares—takes up nearly all my energy. All of the little things that Father, and occasionally Samis, did without even thinking are completely new to me. During my first council meeting as king, the day after my coronation, a wave of unreality strikes me, like I should be literally anywhere other than here. It appears I’m not the only one—everyone in the palace seems to be on tenterhooks, waiting with bated breath for the other shoe to drop. At times, I feel like the tension in the air is so thick that it will suffocate me if I’m not careful.

With so many other things on my mind, it takes me a while to notice that Tag has been avoiding seeing me in private, since the night after Samis died. At first, I can rationalize his absence—it’s not like I’d have a ton of time for him anyway, and maybe he thinks I need some space to deal with my feelings. But as the days pass with no sign of him, I start to wonder whether he’s giving me space, or if he’s given up on me altogether. Either way, I can’t help but feel abandoned. Of course, Mother, Emma, and Kenessa are there for me, but they’re not exactly in the best of states themselves. Besides, none of them can replace Tag and the way he makes me feel better with just a touch or a smile.

I really do need him, because if there’s one thing the last few days have taught me, it’s that life is unpredictable. The only way I’m going to stay sane is to have someone I can count on by my side.

Finally, about a week after Samis died, I decide that I can wait no longer. I send a messenger to the Leara rooms before I can stop myself, with a message asking Tag to come to me as soon as he can.

He shows up in my rooms a short time later with a wary look on his face. “You wanted to see me, Darien?”

“I did. I know I’ve been busy recently, but I’ve missed you all the same. I just wanted to know if something’s wrong.” I pause. “Other than the obvious, I mean.”

“Darien…” He licks his lips, his gaze darting away from mine briefly before returning. “I didn’t want to trouble you while you were mourning. I just thought maybe you wanted some distance.”

“I appreciate that. Really, I mean it.” I try to sound as non-accusatory as possible. “But it’s not necessary anymore. I want to be with you.”

He starts to say something but hesitates, and my heart begins to sink.

“What’s wrong?” I ask. “Please tell me.”

He gives me a look of pure misery. “Can I sit down?” He gestures to the bed. I nod, and he perches on the edge of bed.

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