Page 48 of Alien Prince

“Exactly my thoughts,” he said, leaning in conspiratorially. “Tell me, have you had a chance to explore much of our fair planet?”

“Not as much as I'd like,” I admitted. “My schedule has been quite packed since I arrived earlier today.”

“Well, that's a tragedy we must rectify,” he declared. “I'd be honored to give you a personal tour.”

“Is that a standard diplomatic courtesy?” I asked, tilting my head.

“Only for distinguished guests,” he replied smoothly. “And those who look stunning in royal purple gowns.”

I laughed softly. “Flattery will get you everywhere, Prince Ryler.”

“That's the idea,” he said with a wink.

The conversation flowed effortlessly from there, Ryler’s charm and animated gestures drawing me in. His curiosity seemed genuine, his questions moving seamlessly from diplomacy to art, music, and our shared interests.

“So, what inspired you to join I.R.M.A.?” he asked, genuinely intrigued.

“I've always believed in the power of connection,” I explained. “Growing up, I saw how misunderstandings could lead to unnecessary conflict. I wanted to be a bridge between worlds.”

“A noble pursuit,” he said thoughtfully. “It's rare to find someone so dedicated to unity.”

“What about you?” I inquired. “What drives a prince to mingle so freely among his guests?”

He grinned. “Oh, I find the royal protocols dreadfully dull. I'd much rather be here, engaging in real conversations.”

“Careful,” I teased. “Someone might overhear and report you for dereliction of duty.”

“Let them,” he said with a carefree shrug. “Life's too short to be spent entirely on ceremony.”

I couldn’t help but laugh along with him as he recounted a story about sneaking out of the palace to attend a street festival incognito.

“The look on the guards' faces when they finally found me was priceless,” he said, his eyes sparkling with mirth.

“I can only imagine,” I replied. “You seem to have a knack for adventure.”

“Adventure makes life interesting,” he said. “Speaking of which, would you care to join me for one sometime?”

“Are you proposing we sneak out of the palace?” I asked playfully.

“Only if you're up for it,” he challenged gently.

Before I could respond, a server paused beside us with a tray of delicate pastries and vibrant treats, their aromas too tempting to resist. Ryler noticed my glance and offered his arm.

“Shall we indulge?” he suggested.

“Lead the way,” I agreed.

He guided me to a nearby lounge area. We sank into the plush seating, a quiet retreat from the lively crowd. A cascading fountain nearby glowed softly, casting a gentle mist that cooled the warm air around us. The cushions beneath me were impossibly soft, adding a layer of comfort to this surreal evening.

Ryler selected a pastry topped with a shimmering glaze and handed it to me. “Try this. It's a local favorite.”

I took a bite, the flavors bursting on my tongue—sweet, tart, with a hint of spice. “This is incredible!”

“I knew you'd like it,” he said confidently. “So, Maisie, what brings you to the heart of our vibrant celebrations?”

I savored the last bit of the pastry before answering. “Well, officially, I'm here to strengthen diplomatic relations between our worlds. But personally, I'm eager to experience your culture firsthand.”

“An admirable goal,” he replied. “And how are you finding it so far?”

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