Princess Rose in Zaza

I know you are itching to stretch your legs and get back to work to distract you from the stress.

Christine said with a smile.

Jess nodded, and her face lit up in a radiant smile.

Christine walked across the room and pulled open a brown wooden door that contained beautiful gowns and dresses, from casual wear to gowns made especially for formal occasions.

Her mouth was agape from all the beautiful clothes just hanging there. She wondered who owned the clothes since this was the private quarters of the crown prince.

I never knew the crown prince had an array of gowns kept in his private quarters.

I thought he said he was single.

Jess muttered under her breath, but Christine heard her and could not help but giggle.

Hmm! Someone is in love.

Christine said, teasing Jess.

Common! Stop teasing me.

Jess replied shyly.

But she could not deny that the crown prince was attractive. His strong jawline, well-defined abs, and sturdy shoulders could make any woman fall to her knees.

Only a blind man would not find him attractive, and Jess was not blind. Even though she found him attractive, she was not in love with him like most women who would do anything to woo him to bed. 

Jess was glad Christine could not see her face right now as she was still rummaging through the closet to find a suitable gown for the occasion. If not, there would be no end to the teasing.

The crown prince had me move your things to this room and ordered Gracia to handpick these gowns as you will need to accompany him to events as his assistant. The crown prince hates shabbiness and wants you dressed to the nines.

Christine explained.

Oho!

Jess replied, stunned at what she was hearing.

So, all these gowns are yours. Throw out the thought of another woman competing with you as no one can ravel your place in his heart.

I never thought of that.

Jess defended herself.

Umm Hu!

Christine squinted to look at Jess with a sly smile gracing her lips.

I am afraid we do not have the time to go back and forth as we only have an hour left to get dressed and meet up with the officials and noblemen at the garden to welcome Princess Rose.

Christine said as she brought out a stunning blue gown with a purple cape and threw it at Jess to change into.

Jess was thankful that Christine changed the topic as she felt awkward with the conversation.

Jess had no idea why the prince and Daniel were avoiding welcoming Princess Rose when her visit would boost the visibility of the hospital. Honestly, it was none of her concerns. What mattered the most was the crown prince would be busy with Princess Rose.

But this looks too expensive.

What would Princess Melissa think if she saw me in one of these?

Jess asked. She knew Princess Melissa did not fancy her and saw her as a leech hanging around her brother to squander his wealth.

You do not have to bother about her.

Christine said nonchalantly.

I know Princess Melissa can be a pain in the ass at times, but she is not a bad person. It is just that the crown prince indulges her that she feels entitled, but if you can get her on your side, she will be an asset to you.

Jess ignored her comment and pretended to tie her shoelaces. She knew what Christine meant but was unwilling to sacrifice her freedom and become a pawn in a political war. All she desired was a simple life with Jess and not to become the crown princess of Zaza.

I have some good news to share, but we have to wait as Princess Rose will soon be arriving, and we are part of the group to welcome her and make her feel at home.

Christine said, trying to break the silence in the room.

What is it?

Jess asked while tugging at Christine.

Jess, always the curious cat, could not wait to hear the good news.

Walker Lane is back, and the hospital is buzzing with happiness.

Christine finally broke the news as they walked into the garden. The plum and berry trees lined on both sides of the sidewalk cast a beautiful glow on the entire estate.  

Oh my God!

I am so glad that she is back.

Jess gushed as Christine pulled her onto the sidewalk.

Yes! I cannot wait for things to return to normalcy since Walker Lane is back and Loren is no longer the chief physician.

Umm-?

Jess stammered.

What is it?

Christine asked as she continued to drag Jess to the entrance where the rest of the officials had gathered.

How did you become a female guard?

Jess finally mustered the courage to ask.

Christine chuckled before replying.

It is a long story that will take up the entire day, but know that it was all possible because of the crown prince.

Really?

Jess asked, surprised. She was stunned to learn that the crown prince was not as close-minded as the men of Zaza.

Yes! Christine replied.

Beyond that cold facade is a man who genuinely loves his people and would be willing to sacrifice himself for the kingdom if need be.

Christine remarked.

They were interrupted by the neighing of horses, followed by the chariot wheel driving in with foot soldiers trailing behind.

Princess Rose has arrived.

Christine informed Jess and handed her the ornate letter.

When she asks why the director is not present to receive her, give her this with a polite bow.

Christine instructed as she scurried off as if she had seen a ghost.

Jess nodded, but her heart was anything but calm.

Despite trying to act nonchalant, her hands were still sweaty, and her heart was racing a mile by the second. She put a hand over her chest, trying to calm her nervousness as she stood in line with the officials.

You look like you have seen a ghost.

She heard Loren say from behind her in the hallway, making her jump in fright.

What are you still doing here?

She asked in a clipped tone.

Inform Director Brock that the future Crown Princess of Zaza has arrived.

She commanded with both hands folded on her chest like she was still in charge.

What? Jess asked, appalled.

You haven’t heard the rumor that Rose Bethmot is engaged to the crown prince of our kingdom? She asked Jess with a wicked grin as if she was privy to information Jess wasn’t aware of.

Her intuition was correct when she suspected the crown prince was avoiding Princess Rose because he was avoiding the marriage. Jess feared the princess would ask for her head on a platter if she found out the crown prince was pursuing her romantically.

It only reinforced her will to escape and live somewhere quiet, far from the palace and capital.  

She had no time to process what she said as the princess stepped out of the carriage with the help of a guard. She had this domineering aura around her that left one mesmerized.  

The princess wore a beautiful red gown that reached her knee while the purple cap swished the floor as she walked. Her blue eyes were clear and expressive, while her blond hair accentuated the emerald choker on her neck with matching earrings. She exuded royalty, a perfect fit for the crown prince and the throne of Zaza.