The Selection was reaching a pivotal stage, and tensions among the contestants were at an all-time high. To test their sincerity and compatibility with Prince Aiden, the royal advisors had arranged a day of interviews followed by one-on-one dates with the prince. The atmosphere in the palace was electric with anticipation as the four remaining contestants prepared themselves for the spotlight.

The Interviews

The interviews took place in the grand sitting room, its ornate furnishings and towering windows creating a regal yet intimidating atmosphere. Prince Aiden sat in a high-backed chair, flanked by his advisors and a hovering cameraman documenting the event for the public.

The first to enter was Isabel.

Isabel's Interview

Aiden offered her a warm smile as she took her seat. "Isabel, thank you for joining me. How are you feeling?"

"A little nervous," Isabel admitted with a shy smile, "but I'm excited to be here."

Aiden nodded. "Let's start with something simple. If you were to become the princess, what would you prioritize?"

Isabel thought for a moment. "I would focus on education, especially for the provinces that are often overlooked. Growing up, I saw how many children didn't have the opportunities they deserved. I'd like to change that."

Her answer earned a nod of approval from the advisors and a genuine smile from Aiden.

Next was Amara, her usual confident demeanor on full display.

Amara's Interview

Amara sat down with a smirk, her arms casually resting on the chair.

"Amara," Aiden began, "you've been quite the enigma during this process. What drives you to stay in the Selection?"

She leaned forward slightly, her voice low and direct. "Honestly? I don't care about the title or the crown. I care about authenticity. I think you deserve someone who sees you as a person, not just a prince. That's why I'm here—to see if you're really someone worth fighting for."

The room was silent for a moment, the boldness of her answer catching everyone off guard. Aiden couldn't help but chuckle, intrigued by her unfiltered honesty.

Lydia's Interview

Lydia entered with a graceful air, her soft smile disarming.

"Lydia," Aiden said, "you've always carried yourself with such poise. What do you think sets you apart from the others?"

Lydia tilted her head thoughtfully. "I think it's my ability to adapt. Growing up in a bustling province taught me to navigate chaos while keeping a clear mind. I'd use that skill to support you, no matter what challenges we'd face together."

Her answer was measured, earning her a nod of approval from the advisors.

Finally, Selene stepped in, her expression calm and composed.

Selene's Interview

"Selene," Aiden began, "you've been one of the quieter contestants. How do you envision yourself in a role as public as princess?"

Selene smiled softly. "It's true, I'm not the loudest voice in the room, but I believe leadership isn't always about being the most outspoken. It's about listening, understanding, and making decisions that benefit everyone. I think my calm nature would complement your leadership well."

Aiden smiled, appreciating her thoughtful response.

The Dates

After the interviews, it was time for the one-on-one dates. Each contestant was given the opportunity to spend an hour with Aiden in a setting of his choosing, allowing them to connect on a more personal level.

Isabel's Date: A Stroll in the Gardens

Aiden chose the palace gardens for his date with Isabel. The two walked along the winding paths, their conversation light and easy. Isabel spoke passionately about her ideas for improving the kingdom, and Aiden found himself admiring her earnestness.

"You're very driven," he said as they paused by the fountain.

"Because I care," Isabel replied, her cheeks flushing. "Not just about you, but about the people who look to the crown for guidance."

Her sincerity struck a chord with him, and he made a mental note to spend more time with her in the coming days.

Amara's Date: Archery Practice

For Amara, Aiden chose something unconventional: archery. The two stood side by side on the training grounds, bows in hand.

"I'm not going easy on you," Amara warned with a smirk as she loosed an arrow.

"I wouldn't expect you to," Aiden replied, matching her competitive energy.

As the session continued, their banter grew more playful. Despite her tough exterior, Amara revealed glimpses of vulnerability when she spoke about her upbringing and the challenges she had faced.

"You're not what I expected," Aiden admitted as they packed up their gear.

"Good," Amara replied, a teasing smile on her lips.

Lydia's Date: A Private Tea in the Conservatory

Aiden opted for a quieter setting with Lydia, inviting her to tea in the conservatory. Surrounded by blooming flowers and warm sunlight, the atmosphere was serene.

They spoke about their families and dreams, and Lydia shared stories from her childhood that made Aiden laugh.

"You're easy to talk to," he told her.

"And you're surprisingly down-to-earth," Lydia replied, her tone light but sincere.

Selene's Date: Star-Gazing on the Balcony

For Selene, Aiden arranged a star-gazing date on one of the palace's balconies. The night was clear, the stars shining brightly above.

As they sat side by side, Selene pointed out constellations and shared myths she had learned as a child.

"You seem so at peace," Aiden observed.

"Because this feels real," Selene said quietly. "Not the cameras or the competition—just this moment."

Her words stayed with Aiden long after the date ended.

Reflections

By the end of the evening, Aiden was more conflicted than ever. Each contestant had shown him a different side of themselves, leaving him with more questions than answers.

As he stood alone in his chambers, he glanced out at the moonlit gardens, where Elara was walking with Dorian in the shadows, their bond growing stronger with each passing day.

Would he find the clarity he needed in the days to come, or would the weight of expectations crush his ability to make a choice from the heart?