Love beyond duty

ege, yet he felt suffocated by the weight of expectations.. "As Prince Ryder gazed out at the kingdom, he felt a sense of restlessness. His life was

his mother's gentle smile seemed to hold a hidden message. His father, the king, cleared his throat, 'Ryder, we've discussed your future. It's time to focus on your royal duties and secur

phia's eyes sparkled as she began to describe her idea for the ball, but Prince Ryder's mind wandered. He admired Sophia's carefree spirit, but wondered if she'd eventually face the same suffocating expectations. The queen's subtle nod to Sophia encouraged her to continue, while the king's gaze lingered on Prince Ryder, expectation etched on h

between Prince Ryder and Lady Victoria. As the evening wore on, Prince Ryder excused himself, citing a need to attend to some royal duties. Lady Victoria's smile never wavered, but Prince Ryder sensed a flash of annoyance in her eyes. He knew he had to tread carefully, but he couldn't shake the feeling that he was being pulled into a game he didn't want to play. he couldn't help but notice the way she effortlessly commanded attention. Her laughter was melodious, her smile captivating, and her conversation witty. Yet, beneath her polished facade, Prince Ryder sensed a calculating nature, a determination to secure the match that bordered on ruthlessness. The king, oblivious to the subtle tensions, beamed with pride as Lady Victoria charmed him with stories of her diplomatic prowess. Prince Ryder's mother, the queen, observed the exchange with a discerning eye, her expression a mask of polite interest. Sophia, s

erience life beyond the stifling protocol and expectations. He yearned to make his own choices, to forge his own path. A soft knock on the door broke the silence. It was his mother, the queen. 'Ryder, may I speak with you?' she asked, her voice gentle. Prince Ryder nodded, wondering what she might say. The queen entered, her presence calm and soothing. 'Ryder, I know you're feeling trapped,' she said, her voice understanding. 'But you have a duty to our kingdom and our people. Lady Victoria is a suitable match, and she would make a fine queen.' Prince Ryder sighed, feeling the weight of his responsibilities. 'Mother, I

ther over time. We worked together, supported each other, and built a life. Perhaps that's what you need to do with Lady Victoria.' Prince Ryder felt a pang of doubt. Was his mother right? Could he really build a life with someone he didn't feel passionate about? He wanted to believe that love could

trengthen our alliance and secure our future.' Prince Ryder nodded slowly, feeling the weight of his responsibilities. He knew his parents had always put the kingdom first, but he couldn't shake the feeling that there must be more to life than just duty and obligation. 'Mother, what about you?'

was being forced into a predetermined role. He thought about Lady Victoria, her poised demeanor and calculated charm. Was she truly the right partner for him, or just a means to secure an alliance? Prince Ryder's heart rebelled against the idea of a loveless marriage, but his mind warned him of the consequences of defying his parents' wishes. The sound of rustling leaves broke the silence as Prince Ryder's friend, Thomas, appeared beside him. 'Ryder, what's troubling you?' Thomas asked, his voice low and understanding. Prince Ryder hesitated, unsure how to articulate his feelings. 'It's just... this marriage, Thomas. I don't know if I'm ready for it. I don't know if I love her.' Thomas nodded thoughtfully. 'Perhaps you're not looking at it from the right perspective, Ryder. Maybe this marriage could be an opportunity for growth, for building something meaningful with Lady Victoria. Or maybe it's a chance for you to discover what you truly want in life.' Prince Ryder considered Thomas's words, feeling a glimmer of hope. Could this arranged marriage be a c

nd he forced a smile, playing along. But beneath the surface, Prince Ryder's doubts simmered, refusing to be silenced. 'I'll make sure to escort you to the ball, Lady Victoria,' Prince Ryder said, his words feeling rehearsed. 'It will be a wonderful opportunity for us to showcase our union.' Lady Victoria's

rince Ryder. What would you like to discuss?' Prince Ryder hesitated, unsure how to begin. 'I was wondering... what do you enjoy doing in your free time? I feel like I don't know much about you beyond your diplomatic duties.' Lady Victoria's expression softened,