Page 49 of Alien Prince

“Enchanting,” I admitted, glancing around. “There's so much beauty here—in the architecture, the art, the people.”

He smiled warmly. “We take great pride in our heritage. It's wonderful to see it through fresh eyes.”

I leaned forward slightly. “Tell me more about your role here. Beyond the charm and the adventure, what does Prince Ryler do?”

He chuckled softly. “Ah, putting me on the spot, are we? Well, I focus on cultural initiatives—promoting the arts, supporting educational programs, that sort of thing.”

“That explains your appreciation for the festival and the arts,” I noted.

“Indeed,” he said. “I believe that culture is the soul of a nation. It's what connects us beyond politics and economics.”

“I couldn't agree more,” I said earnestly. “Art has a way of transcending barriers.”

He regarded me thoughtfully. “You know, you're not like most diplomats I've met.”

I raised an eyebrow. “Oh? And what are they like?”

“Formal, reserved, sometimes a bit... stiff,” he said with a grin. “You, on the other hand, are refreshingly genuine.”

“Well, I believe in being authentic,” I replied. “It's easier than keeping up pretenses.”

“A philosophy I wholeheartedly support,” he said, lifting his glass in a small toast. “To authenticity.”

“To authenticity,” I echoed, clinking my glass softly against his.

We sipped our drinks, a pleasant silence settling between us. The soft melody of the music, the gentle glow of the fountain, and the warmth of Ryler's presence created an atmosphere that felt both intimate and relaxed.

He set his glass down and leaned back. “So, if you weren't an ambassador, what do you think you'd be doing?”

I considered the question. “Perhaps I'd be a writer. I love stories—the way they can transport you to different worlds, different perspectives.”

“Fascinating,” he said. “Maybe you can share some of your imagination with me sometime.”

“Maybe I will,” I replied. “What about you? If you weren't bound by royal duties, what path might you have taken?”

He gazed thoughtfully into the distance. “I've always been drawn to exploration. There's so much of the universe we haven't seen. I think I'd be an adventurer, charting unknown territories.”

“That sounds exhilarating,” I said. “And a bit dangerous.”

He flashed a daring smile. “What's life without a little risk?”

“Safe?” I suggested playfully.

“Safe can be overrated,” he countered. “Don't you think?”

“Perhaps,” I conceded. “But it has its merits.”

He leaned in closer. “Maybe I can convince you to step outside your comfort zone.”

I met his gaze, a spark of intrigue flickering between us. “Is that a challenge, Prince Ryler?”

“Consider it an invitation,” he said softly.

Before I could respond, the music shifted to a slower, more melodic tune. He stood and offered his hand once more. “Care to dance?”

I hesitated for just a moment before placing my hand in his. “I'd love to.”

He led me to the dance floor, where couples were swaying gracefully to the music. As we moved together, I was acutely aware of the closeness—the gentle pressure of his hand on my back, the way our steps synchronized effortlessly.

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