Putting on a charade

Melissa was starting to get worried when Rose walked in with a bunny in her hand, unaware of the chaos she had caused.

Rose was playing with the bunny when she bumped into a maid carrying a tray of food, which sent the plates flying in different directions.

Forgive me, your Highness.

The maid pleaded as she knelt with her head bowed to the floor.

Melissa was about to step in and scold the maid for not paying attention to her environment when Rose did something that surprised her.

I should be the one apologizing.

Rose stated.

I was preoccupied with the bunny that I was unaware I was blocking the corridor.

Rose stated while kneeling beside the maid, who was shivering.

The maid was surprised to see how gentle and kind the princess was, a sharp contrast to rumors of her ruthlessness.

The unexpected gesture of kindness from the princess caught her off guard, prompting her to lower her head in appreciation.
Vera,

Rose called to one of her maids standing behind her.

Yes, Your Highness.

Vera answered as she stood before the princess, waiting for her instructions.

Help the_

What is your name?

Rose paused halfway to inquire of the maid, who remained crouched on the floor.

Miva, Your Highness.

Miva, Rose repeated after her.

What a beautiful name, befitting of your beauty.

Rose praised, making Miva blush at the compliment.

She never anticipated that the princess would display such warmth toward someone of her humble background, yet the princess not only extended her kindness but also offered her compliments.

From that moment on, Miva vowed that she would go to great lengths to serve the princess and fulfill her wishes, should the chance present itself.

Vera, please help her with the tableware and convey my apologies to the steward, as I am the reason the food ended up on the floor.

Rose instructed as she rose to her feet with the bunny in her hand.

Thank you, Your Highness.

Miva bowed her head in gratitude as she watched the maid assigned to assist her pick up the tray and the dishware scattered on the floor as a result of the impact of colliding with the princess.

Melissa gazed at Rose, appreciating her strength, grace, and composure in handling issues.

Just like how she handled the visit to the Royal Hospital and still maintained her poise despite being stood up by her brother in front of the nobles who accompanied her.

Melissa wished her brother would stop being stubborn and formalize the marriage before it is too late.

Your kindness and humility are beyond compare and a rare quality, difficult to find these days; my brother could learn a thing or two from you on how to treat people.

Melissa said as she emerged from the shadows.

Melissa!

You scared the living daylight out of me.

Rose scolded as she placed her left hand on her chest.

Not as scared as you made me when I could not find you throughout the entire manor; even your bodyguards were unaware of your whereabouts.

Melissa stated with an expressionless face.

Melissa observed a shift in her demeanor as her eyes darkened, but she quickly covered it up, making her doubt what she saw.

The atmosphere in the room was stifling, making it hard for me to find rest after the events at the Royal Hospital.

Rose said with a sad smile.

I wanted some fresh air, away from the watchful eyes of my bodyguards, to clear my mind and elevate my spirits.

So, I fabricated a story about being in the library, slipped out through the window, and ventured into the garden, where I encountered this adorable little bunny.

Melissa added in a low-pitched voice.

I apologize for the way my brother is treating you; I never expected him to find an excuse to avoid welcoming you, especially given his role as the Director.

If he were not the crown prince, he would have been spending a night in the dungeon.

Melissa apologized.

What is there to ask forgiveness for?

The visit was on short notice, so he likely felt surprised.

Rose stated as she took slow steps towards her room while Melissa trailed behind her.

Rose suddenly stopped and turned to look at Melissa.

I understand how he feels, and I cannot blame him if he wants to explore other interests and passions before he settles down.

The longing and sadness lingering in her eyes did not go unnoticed by Melissa.

No matter how strong a person is, it is human nature to feel uneasy when the person they love does not reciprocate their feelings.

Melissa thought to herself.
Melissa knew that Jess was a threat, as she had never seen him spare a second glance at a woman in the past. He even moved her into his private quarters to recover and secretly called the best doctor to treat her.

Melissa shook her head and responded.

You are too kind for your own good. This visit was a perfect opportunity to spark the rumor of romance between you and my brother, which, with the help of the maids and helpers, would spread across the capital overnight.

Melissa said, feeling frustrated that her plans failed.

I cannot compel your brother to love me, but I sincerely hope that over time, he will recognize my affection for him and accept my love.

You are his betrothed wife; he has explored enough and experienced life as an ordinary citizen. He needs to remember that he is still the crown prince of this kingdom and must continue the royal bloodline.

Melissa seethed in anger at his brother's foolishness in not wanting to marry Rose.

Calm down.

Rose said as her bunny was restless because of Melissa's high-pitched voice.

I know something that would make you smile.

Rose said in a cheerful voice.

Melissa rolled her eyes and wondered why Rose was so calm and confident when his brother was now noticing another girl.

Melissa knew his brother well enough to know that once he falls in love, he will defy all odds to be with that person