Page 39 of The Alien's Unwanted Bride

She turned to Meline and Jack. “And to you both, we are honored by your decision to stay and help us rebuild. Your wisdom and experience will be invaluable as we work to restore Xuevis to its former glory and beyond.”

Ylara then addressed the group as a whole. “We’ve discussed at length how to move forward, and we believe we’ve found a solution that honors both our past and our future. Meline and Jack will help oversee the throne of Xuevis with my support until the time comes for Zora and her sisters to decide how best to manage both kingdoms.”

This announcement sent a ripple of surprise through the gathering. Zora exchanged glances with her sisters, seeing her own mix of excitement and apprehension reflected in their eyes.

Ylara continued, her voice filled with conviction. “This arrangement will give us time to rebuild, to strengthen our alliances, and to prepare for a future where our worlds are truly united. Zora, Raelee, Mila, Venus—when the time comes, we know you’ll make the right decisions for both Xuevis and Tharvis.”

Dravek, who had been quietly observing, now stepped forward. “We won’t let you down,” he said, his deep voice filled with conviction. “What we’ve started here is just the beginning.”

Zora felt a surge of emotion at his words, at the united front they all presented. She reached out, taking Dravek’s hand in hers. “Together,” she added, “we’ll build on this foundation. We’ll face whatever challenges come our way, not just as representatives of our worlds, but as partners.”

TWENTY-EIGHT

The Tharvisian royal palace hummed with anticipation as the final preparations for the interplanetary celebration unfolded. Dravek stood at the window of his private chambers, his gaze fixed on the bustling courtyard below. Dignitaries from Earth, Xuevis, and various Tharvisian provinces arrived in ornate transports, their colorful attire a stark contrast to the sleek, silvery architecture of the palace.

His fingers absently traced the intricate patterns etched into his formal uniform—a blend of traditional Tharvisian design and modern innovations. The weight of the moment pressed upon him, far heavier than any armor he’d worn in battle.

A soft chime drew his attention. “Enter,” he called, his deep voice betraying a hint of nervousness unfamiliar to those who knew him best.

The door slid open with a whisper, revealing Vexor. His elder brother’s presence filled the room, regal and composed as always. “You summoned me, brother?”

Dravek turned, meeting Vexor’s piercing gaze. “I need your counsel,” he admitted, the words feeling foreign on his tongue.

Vexor’s eyebrow arched slightly—the closest thing to surprise he ever displayed. He crossed the room, his movements fluidand purposeful. “Speak your mind, Dravek. It’s unlike you to seek advice.”

Taking a deep breath, Dravek steeled himself. “It’s about Zora,” he began, his voice low. “I... I intend to declare my feelings for her. Publicly. At the celebration.”

Silence stretched between them, thick with unspoken thoughts. Vexor’s expression remained impassive, but his eyes held a glimmer of interest. “I see,” he said finally. “And you seek my opinion on this matter?”

Dravek nodded, uncharacteristically hesitant. “Our traditions, our position—they demand restraint. Yet I find myself compelled to act against everything we’ve been taught.” His fist clenched at his side. “Tell me, brother. Am I a fool for considering this?”

To Dravek’s surprise, a small smile tugged on the corner of Vexor’s mouth. “A fool? Perhaps. But not for the reasons you might think.” He stepped closer, placing a hand on Dravek’s shoulder. “We are taught that emotions are a weakness, that vulnerability has no place in leadership. Yet in my experience, true strength often lies in having the courage to be vulnerable.”

Dravek blinked, taken aback by his brother’s words. “You... support this decision?”

Vexor’s smile widened fractionally. “I support you, brother. And I’ve seen the changes in you since Zora Arison entered your life. You’ve grown, not just as a leader, but as a person.” He squeezed Dravek’s shoulder. “Do what feels right, not what tradition dictates. The future of Tharvis may depend on our ability to adapt and embrace new ways of thinking.”

A weight lifted from Dravek’s chest, replaced by a surge of determination. “Thank you, Vexor. Your words mean more than you know.”

As Vexor turned to leave, he paused at the door. “One piece of advice, brother. When you speak, do so from your heart. It’s there that your true strength lies.”

With those parting words, Vexor departed, leaving Dravek to contemplate the path ahead. The grand hall awaited, and with it, a moment that would change everything.

The grand hallin the palace buzzed with activity as Dravek made his way through the crowd. Delegates from three worlds mingled, their conversations a symphony of different languages and cultures coming together. He caught sight of Zora across the room, her auburn hair catching the light from the floating orbs above. She moved with grace and purpose, her presence commanding yet warm as she greeted various dignitaries.

His heart quickened at the sight of her, a reaction he once would have dismissed as weakness. Now, he embraced the feeling, drawing strength from it.

King Brakus Tharvis stood at the center of the stage, his powerful voice filling the hall as he welcomed the assembled attendees. “Today marks a new chapter in the history of our worlds,” he proclaimed. “A chapter of unity, understanding, and shared purpose.”

As his father’s speech concluded, Dravek felt a flutter of nervousness in his stomach. He pushed it aside, focusing instead on the warmth that filled him whenever he thought of Zora. This was right. This was necessary.

He ascended the steps to the podium, the eyes of three worlds upon him. Taking a deep breath, he began to speak.

“Honored and esteemed guests, people of Earth, Xuevis, and Tharvis. We stand here today on the cusp of a new era—one ofunprecedented cooperation and mutual understanding between our worlds.” His voice, strong and clear, carried to every corner of the hall. “The alliances we forge today are built on the foundation of shared hopes, common goals, and the belief that together, we are stronger than we could ever be apart.”

He paused, his gaze sweeping across the audience before settling on Zora. Her blue eyes met his, curiosity and warmth radiating from them.

“Yet as we celebrate these grand alliances, I am compelled to speak of a more personal connection—one that has profoundly shaped my understanding of what true unity means.” Murmurs rippled through the crowd, but Dravek pressed on, his voice gaining strength with each word.

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