Page 44 of The Moon's Daughter

“I have a younger brother named Bashir. He’s quite the opposite of me—more adventurous and less inclined toward diplomacy,” Almeer shared with a chuckle. “We’re close, though. He has a knack for finding trouble, but his heart is always in the right place.”

Layna smiled and continued with her questions. “What was the diplomatic mission that brought you to Alzahra?”

“My delegation came to meet with Lord Farhan, the minister of trade, to discuss new routes. But as tensions between Zephyria and Alzahra escalated, our talks became strained, and eventually, there was nothing left to discuss.” Almeer paused, a pensive expression on his face. “My companions returned home, but I chose to extend my stay a bit longer.” He and Soraya shared a soft smile.

“It must be quite difficult to leave my sister,” Layna teased. “Where have you been staying?”

“At a small inn near the palace,” Almeer explained. “It’s modest but comfortable. And so far, the city guards have respected my diplomatic status, but I’m not sure how much longer that will last.”

Layna nodded thoughtfully. “And how did you and Soraya first meet?”

Almeer looked at Soraya. His eyes shone brightly with what could only be love. “It was in the palace gardens. Soraya was there, a vision of dedication among her plants. She’s incredible.” Soraya flushed at his praise.

As Layna observed them, a much-belated realization dawned upon her. Had Soraya always felt overlooked living in the shadow of a crown princess? Was that why she shied away from formal events where the spotlight was always, inevitably, shining on Layna?

Soraya had always been there for her, always understanding, never voicing any resentment at being eclipsed by Layna’s role as future queen. She had consistently been Layna’s pillar, offering unwavering support without a hint of envy.

But here, with Almeer, Soraya shone brightly, a rare gem, her own unique qualities appreciated and cherished.

“Eventually, I must return to Zephyria,” Almeer added, disappointment marring his features. “But I find myself delaying the journey. There’s something about Alzahra that makes it hard to leave.” He looked at Soraya with an affectionate smile.

Layna could clearly see the happiness radiating from her sister.

Here was a love that defied odds and expectations. A glimmer of hope bloomed in her chest, a thought that perhaps therewasa way for her to balance the desires of her heart with the duties of her crown.

After enjoying their picnic, Layna and Soraya bid farewell to Almeer and rode back to the city. Nearing the busy city center, they decided to take a detour through the vibrant markets.

Stalls lined the streets, each one overflowing with goods ranging from exotic spices to handcrafted jewelry. The air was filled with the rich aromas of street food and the lively chatter of vendors and shoppers.

One section of the market was particularly renowned––the textile quarter. Here, the stalls were draped with fabrics, hallmarks of Alzahran craftsmanship. Silks shimmered in the fading sunlight, velvets in deep, luxurious colors piled high next to stacks of finely woven linens, their textures begging to be touched.

As they wandered, Soraya purchased a delicate scarf, its fabric light as air, dyed in shades of deep blue and sparkling silver reminiscent of Almeer’s homeland.

Layna, meanwhile, was captivated by a collection of colorful bandanas. One called out to her—it was a deep teal which she thought would complement Zarian’s hazel eyes. On a whim, she bought it.

The elderly shopkeeper was honored to have the princesses in her stall and initially refused their payment. Still, they pressed the coins into her wrinkled hands, leaving her with a grateful heart and a story to tell.

As they returned to the palace, the sisters basked in the warmth of the setting sun, hearts content with the simple pleasures of the day and the comfort of each other’s support.

As the first light of dawn crept through his curtains, Prince Zarian lay awake, the memory of his kiss with Layna vivid in his mind.

He chose to skip breakfast. Facing Layna in front of her family, with the memory of their kiss so fresh, seemed an impossible task. He feared his eyes would betray him, and his years of training to master his emotions would crumble under the weight of a single glance from her.

He’d rather face a pit of venomous cobras. Again.

His day was spent in a state of distraction, overseeing palace guards and holding meetings with security advisers, yet his thoughts constantly wandered back to Layna. For all he knew, he might have assigned every guard to the same post.

As the sun set, painting the sky in shades of orange and purple, the thought of finally seeing Layna at their training session quickened his pulse.

Their situation was complex, but he could no longer deny his feelings. Whatever challenges lay ahead, his heart was firmly intertwined with hers. In her arms, Zarian felt a completeness he had never known.

He refused now to live without it.

But first, he had to meet with Jamil for a brief update. Changing into his training attire, Zarian set out, eager to conclude the meeting quickly so he could see Layna.

After returning to the palace, Layna expressed her gratitude to Soraya for the wonderful day. The respite had been much needed. With a lighter heart, she quickly dressed for her training session, securely tucking the teal bandana into her vest.

Heart thrumming with hope, she headed to the training grounds with a newfound optimism, eager to share Soraya and Almeer’s story with Zarian. Their love had kindled a flame of hope within her.

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