Chapter 21: Being Loved
**Thelma Zane’s Perspective**
The day began with a sense of serenity. It was one of those rare, perfect days, and I had spent it with someone who had become incredibly dear to me–Aldrich. Fate had played its mysterious hand, drawing us together and turning us into close friends. His presence brought a warmth and vitality to my life that was far more engaging than the cold rigidity of palace
routines.
In the palace, I was expected to shadow my parents as they navigated the labyrinth of government affairs. While these responsibilities were often dry and challenging, I had no choice but to follow them dutifully. My role was to assist with small tasks that aligned with my capabilities, while silently observing and absorbing lessons on governance. As the future. Queen, this was a duty I could not shirk.
The crown, glittering and coveted by many, carried a weight that only those who bore it could comprehend. It demanded sacrifices unimaginable to the outside world. My parents had drilled into me that if I was capable of wearing this crown, I would have to embrace its burdens without hesitation.
Morning flew by in a blur of activity. I worked with unwavering focus, determined to complete the tasks before me. Yet, a part of me longed for the carefree moments I had shared with Aldrich. Yesterday had been such a delightful reprieve, and I found myself missing him already. We had planned to train together, but duty called for both of us today. A small pang of disappointment lingered in my heart, though I reminded myself that understanding and support were the foundations of any strong friendship.
After a taxing morning, a glimmer of excitement sparked as I laid my hands on a new dress–a masterpiece of craftsmanship and design. The dress was exquisite, its neckline curving gracefully, the bodice fashioned from deep green velvet, while the skirt cascaded in soft layers of white chiffon with a hint of gray. The hem ended just above my knees, its texture as light and airy as a cloud. I could already picture how stunning it would look on me, even before trying it on.
This dress was meant for the academy–a place where its beauty would shine but where its impracticality in combat was evident. If I had to fight in it, the fault would not lie in its elegance.
Noticing my furrowed brow, my mother stepped in to soothe my unspoken worries. “Don’t fret, darling. You’ll wear sports attire for training sessions. Besides, there’s no training scheduled for today. It’s the first day; they’ll give you time to acclimate.” She offered me a playful wink, a rare moment of levity that made me smile.
Realization dawned too late–I had canceled my training with Aldrich under the assumption that academy sessions would begin today. Regret flooded me as I realized this might have
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been our only free day together in the coming weeks.
“I thought I could train today…” I murmured, frustration coloring my tone.
“Don’t worry, sweetheart,” my mother reassured me. “You can start tomorrow.”
“It’s not about that!” I blurted, then quickly regretted my words.
My mother’s eyes twinkled with knowing amusement. “Oh? Is this about Aldrich?”
“No, it’s not!” I protested weakly, but my crimson cheeks betrayed me.
Her laughter filled the room. “A few days ago, you were so reluctant to train. Now here you are, practically begging for it. What changed?”
“I misunderstood him before,” I admitted. “He’s really kind and thoughtful.”
“Kind and thoughtful, you say?” she teased. “Perhaps you should go on a date with him. Your father and I are quite open–minded about such things.”
Her suggestion was outrageous enough to make me sputter. “Mom! That’s not–he already has a mate! Besides, it’s complicated. They can’t be together.”
- e. an
Despite my protest, her playful words lingered, echoing in my mind. My thoughts wandered to Bernard–a name that stirred emotions I tried hard to suppress. His rejection haunted me, ever–present shadow that appeared even in the most mundane moments. I had tried to push that night–the bonfire, the cold water, and his piercing rejection–far into the recesses of my
memory.
Perhaps I hadn’t truly loved Bernard, but his rejection had cut deeply, leaving scars I struggled to conceal. Why did it hurt so much? It felt as though the universe had granted him an innate power to cast me aside, reducing me to a trembling, insignificant figure in his eyes.
The fear of being unloved crept into my thoughts, its weight heavy and oppressive. Was I destined to be alone? The idea filled me with a profound sadness.
Sensing my shift in mood, my mother approached me gently. She wrapped me in a comforting embrace, her silence a quiet invitation to share my thoughts.
“Mom,” I began hesitantly, “what if no one ever loves me?”
She smiled softly, her touch warm against my cheek. “Your father and I will always love you, my dear. But remember, love takes many forms. It’s not limited to romance.”
Her words eased the tension within me, though doubts still lingered. “But I was rejected. Doesn’t that mean I’m not worthy
love?”
Her gaze met mine, filled with unwavering confidence. “You are the smartest, most wonderful child I’ve ever known. People are bound to adore you. But, darling, remember this: you weren’t born simply to be loved. You were born to live–boldly and fearlessly. To laugh, explore, and create your own story. Love is not something to wait for in fear; it’s something
Chapter 21 Being Loved
that finds you when you least expect it.
A sense of clarity washed over me. My mother’s words resonated deeply, offering a perspective I had never considered. While Bernard’s rejection still stung, I began to believe that, in time, the pain would fade.
“Mom,” I asked, curiosity piqued, “do I need a mate to become Queen? Couldn’t I handle. everything on my own?”
She smiled, her hands brushing stray strands of hair from my face. “If you meet the right person, you’ll want to share every moment with him. But there’s no need to rush, sweetheart. The right time will come.”
I leaned forward and kissed her forehead, a gesture of gratitude and affection. “I used to
I’m so grateful.” wonder what having parents would be like. Now that I’ve found you,
Her eyes glistened with unshed tears. “And I’m grateful for you. Now go on, get changed. There’s a surprise waiting for you!”
Her words brought a flicker of excitement, momentarily pushing aside my worries. Whatever the future held–whether love or solitude -I resolved to embrace it with courage and grace.
Embracing New Beginnings
C
