Princess Victoria

"Victoria," Luke follows me to the stables. "Where do I even start other than to say I am sorry?" He asks.

"I do not require an apology from you, Luke. You are just as much a victim as I am in this." I sigh. "I know he is your king but you can speak freely about him now. Did he warn you of his plan before he dumped it on me this morning?"

He shakes his head. "He handed me this shortly before he went to summon you. He told me not to open it or else it would spoil the surprise." He pulls a box out of his pocket.

I take it from his outstretched hand.

"Well, it is a ring perfect for a princess. I just wish it was given to me by another." I laugh. I was not expecting my day to start like this. "Should I put it on?" I continue laughing. "I'm sorry. I just really wonder how long he was letting me believe I could be my own person."

Luke shrugs. "Maybe I can put it on you and both of us can laugh at the situation together." He slides the band on my wedding finger. "Will you marry me, Princess Victoria?" He smirks.

"We will have to get my brother's permission first. Oh wait! This is the only union he will bless for me! So, I guess!" I return his question with some banter.

"I know what it is like to not be able to be with the one you love." He whispers, returning to reality. He is serious now.

"Henry is keeping you from your love too?" I ask. He nods in reply. "Who is the lucky girl?"

"I'm not even sure he knows I exist."

"He?!" I squeal. "Oh my God! Luke!" I grab his arm. "This is the most tragic conversation we have ever had."

He nods, holding my hand up to see the ring. "Probably the most tragic conversation anyone has ever had."

"Maybe there's a way we can figure this out so it works for both of us." I shrug. "We don't have to resent each other for our entire marriage."

"Resent you, princess? Never." He shakes his head. "I watch you grow up into the most beautiful young lady. I could never resent you for being forced to do something by your king."

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