Union

Everyone was in a state of shock mixed with excitement. But Princess Self-Cantered did not know what hit her. From queen to queen’s sister, she was angry, but she had to fake happiness for Sanya. She was all over the place.

Grandpa said to Grandfather, "My beloved friend. I know that no union can be forced upon anyone, but how do we agree to the marriage of the younger sibling when the elder one is yet unwed?"

"The King has chosen his Queen. Now there is no change in it. And I told you beforehand that whatever Azar decides, I will accept that, and I will not force him to do anything against his will. Now it is up to you to decide what you want to do. We can wait till you don’t find a suitable match for Sanya." Grandfather spoke in an authoritative voice.

They looked at each other and looked towards Ara, who looked like she had seen a ghost.

I let my gaze shift to other things, as I did not want to put anyone on the spot. I did not want to enforce my decision on anyone. Especially Ara. I wanted her to give it some thought and not make a decision under duress.

Not that this impatient lot was going to wait. Grandfather gave a nod to Grandpa, followed by a bear hug, and with a sense of joy and relief in his voice, he said, "We agree to this union." We are delighted that we will be able to address the King as our dear son-in-law. We are certain Ara will bring all the joy and happiness to the family and that they will be blessed with many healthy and happy heirs." With that, a small tear seemed to roll down his left eye.

But I had other plans, so I said, "Grandfather, I must leave for Paris, and I want to get married before I leave. So kindly arrange things accordingly."

They had heard me loud and clear and, despite being unsure, nodded in agreement. There was a visible hesitation on their faces. That did not leave them enough time to find a suitable alliance for Sanya. And if Ara got married before her elder sister, what would society say? How would they find an alliance for Sanya after that? The unease started to grow on their faces.

I understood their hesitation. But Sanya was never going to be my queen. I would marry someone who understands the value of humanity and humility. Who understood that there is more to life than luxury?

I don’t believe in women, but that did not mean I didn’t know how important companionship was in every relationship.

Good wife or not, I want a good queen for my kingdom.

And I knew at least Ara would not disappoint me.

Finally, everyone agreed, even hesitatingly. From the corner of my eye, I tried to sneak a glance at Ara. She looked absolutely shell-shocked and mortified. It felt as if the wings of the chirpy bird had suddenly been clipped.

I wanted to laugh, but I successfully managed to hide it. I kept my nerves. I had a feeling of disappointment that no one had bothered to ask her opinion about the matter. It was to be a huge decision in her life as well, and the fact that she knew little or nothing about me did not help. But then, I did not know anything about her either.

I guess Grandfather understood her feelings and took her aside to speak about something in private. I could see she was nodding and smiling, but I knew better.

‘Sorry, Ara. You have to become a replacement for your sister.’ I thought, looking at the duo.

We all bid goodbye to everyone. I noticed Ara, and Sanya were standing together, Ara with no expression on her face. Though I wanted to leave, something was stopping me. I wanted to show Sanya her place. "I hope you are happy with this arrangement, Miss Morosini." A smirk appears on my face. I could see she was blazing in anger at her insult.

Huh, that is what I wanted, you arrogant, no-good woman. No one can walk away after insulting Azar Oldenburg.

Ara had a shocked expression at the news of Sanya’s denial of this alliance, but she hid her expression instantly.

I turned my face toward Ara. "Congratulations! My Queen Marstrand is waiting for their Queen". I could see her face heat and her cheeks become beetroot red suddenly as she tried to avoid blushing and failed miserably at avoiding it. I wanted to embrace her, but that would have been improper. I turned towards Sanya, who was rattled.

Yup, now she knows who I am.

I am the King.

The only king even their estate, Madhupur, is also under me. Now she understands what she missed.

Oh, how I enjoyed that expression on her face.

I finally gave my last look to Ara, who was looking everywhere before me. Again, I could not hide the tiny smile appearing on my lip as I looked at her cuteness.

I wanted to talk to her, but I decided otherwise as we sat in the car and left.

As soon as I entered my room, tears started streaming down my face, thinking of the events of the evening and how they transpired. How life has changed in a fraction of the time.

I don’t know whether to be happy or sad, but tears don’t seem to stop.

My mind is trying to recreate the entire evening. Maybe that will help.

Flashback

Life was good.

I got a promotion six months ago. My fantastic designs got the attention they deserved. And soon I am going to Paris Fashion Week with our company’s spring collection. Yes, you heard it right. The Capital of fashion the World, Paris.

I have lovely parents, William and Evelyn Morosini, and a sister, Sanya Morosini, who is a professor, and they love me a lot, as do I.