Chapter 45

“You called for me, Contessa Diadem?” Heather asked as she stepped inside Alexander’s mother's office.
“Yes, Heather. Please take a seat.”
Heather complied with her words and sat down on the chair across from Contessa.
“You might be wondering as to why I called for you. I require your help with something crucial.”
Heather was rather surprised at Contessa’s words. Regardless of that, she was happy to assist her in any way possible. It was the first time any of the elders of Diadem's family had requested her assistance in something.
“I would love to help you with anything?”
“"Alexander, think extremely highly of everything you do. I need assistance with a celebration, not with any medication.” Contessa said, coming straight to the point.
“A celebration?” Heather had a slight frown on her face, wanting to know more about it. ”
“Yes. I need you to help Alfredo because tomorrow is a big celebration in the castle. Staff is short, and I want tomorrow's event to go off without a hitch. If you find this chore to be menial, I totally get it….”
Contessa attempted to complete her sentence, but Heather interrupted her.
“I apologize for interrupting Contessa Diadem. I do not believe in undermining any work. I'll do anything I can to assist Alfredo without hesitation. I will do my best and will not disappoint you.”
“Nothing less than that is required of you. You might now run into Alfredo, who will fill you in on everything.”
Heather nodded in response. As she stood up and was about to leave the office, Contessa called her name, causing her to turn around.
“Heather, I kindly ask that you not tell Alexander about any of this. Although I am aware of your growing friendship, the event tomorrow is a surprise and will be to his benefit. If you could keep it a secret, that would be great. I want to surprise him with the reason behind it, and so does his father. He hasn't spent any quality time with us in a very long time, so we would greatly appreciate it if you helped make it special for him in any way you can.”
“Off course. Anything to help.” Heather smiled.
Heather was quite curious about the celebratory event that Contessa was talking about, but she did not have any right to ask her about it. She didn't want to go too far and cause Alexander's mother any sort of offense. She had considered asking Alexander about the incident later, but now that was thrown out of the window as his parents wanted to keep the reason surprised.
It was rather a sweet gesture from their side.
Maybe she could ask Juan and Malka about it later once she gets time. They would surely know what the fuss it is all about.
Unfortunately, she did not have a single minute to spare once she met Alfredo. She was on a clock.
She had heard about the significant events in Mystes, but she had not anticipated how hectic and tedious they would be. She was involved with every aspect of this event with Alfredo, including cuisine, décor, and seating arrangements. She was unsure if she liked it as quite of a lot of things looked superficial, but it was definitely an experience.
Being royalty is undoubtedly not easy, but this is Alexander’s life, and if she wants to spend her life with him, she would need to get used to it. Although Heather was unsure of how she would adjust, she was never one to give up on something or someone she cared about.
But, since Contessa requested for her assistance, things had started to go better for her.
Somehow she managed to be discreet about the party from Alexander. She greatly benefited from him being busy. She was, although, more pleased when Contessa and Heinrich invited her to the celebration. They looked pleased with her work with Alfredo, and she was relieved that they somewhat approved of her.
On the other hand, Alexander was astonished when he learned that his parents had invited Heather to the palace for the party. There was still an underlying suspicion of his folk's intention. He prayed that his parents took his words seriously about his will to marry Heather and no other women.
He yet wished to view things positively.
Even though he did not get enough time to speak with Heather with respect to the big event that his parents had organized, as he had been stuck in countless number of meetings, but it was implied that she was his date.
Heather looked beautiful in her blue gown. Her hair was pinned in a bun, with a few strands fell on her face. Her face was as stunning as ever and was much more radiant. Her accessories were minimal, but they still made her look divine. His eyes were fixed on hers the minute she entered the hallway, making everything else appear to be a blur save for her.
He extended his hand to her as he approached, never taking his gaze off of her. She graciously received it. “You look lovely, Heather.”
Heather flushed at Alexander's remark and said, "Thank you.
His parents approached them as he was going to bring her to the dance floor.
“Heather, you look good.” Contessa praised, which only made Heather's eyes shine brightly.
“Thank you, Ma’am,” Heather said with a grateful smile.
Since his parents were behaving unlike usual, which is sweet with Heather, Alexander was in a good mood since his parents were acting differently than normal and were being kind to Heather. He was relieved that his parents were now on board since, else, Heather would not have been invited to this party.
“What is this big celebratory party for? Anything special?” Alexander asked curiously.
“Yes, son. Today is a very special and big day for us.” Contessa exclaimed while beaming broadly.
Heinrich chose her class and tapped a spoon on it to draw everyone's attention to it before he could inquire for additional information.
“Ladies and Gentlemen! May we please have your attention here?”
When everyone gathered around and focused their attention on Diadem’s family, Heinrich continued.
“We appreciate you being here with us on this very wonderful day. I am aware that everyone in this room is wondering why such a large party is being held. So, we have a significant announcement to make today. Since our son Alexander has returned, we have been anticipating this day for a very long time, and we are pleased to announce his engagement to Diona Gonzales.”