Page 63 of Bride By Coronation

Two Days Later

Another big yawn overpowers me. As soon as it ends, another one starts.

I'm so tired.

I can't remember when I had a full night's rest. It takes forever to fall asleep, only to wake up with my mind racing. My thoughts weave between dread and telling myself everything will be fine if I marry the king. It always ends with me turning on the light and rereading his letters.

The questions are always the same.

Who is he?

What are these flaws he deems so horrible?

How old is he?

Is he attractive?

Then, the lingerie dances in my mind, taunting me.

How do I get out of sleeping with someoneforever?

The answers never come. Then I'll read the letters again, smiling and laughing at certain parts, and always coming to the same conclusion.

He's funny and nice.

He flew to Monaco to pick out my wedding attire, and asked me what I preferred.

He's going on another long trip to select whatever the borrowed item is, so doesn't that make him kind too?

He says we'll rule together as equals.

What does "rule" even mean?

He knew my dad.

That always tears me up. Then, the pain of growing up without a father and the thought of the twins not having both their parents resolidifies my decision.

There's no way out. I have to marry the king, whoever he is, and deal with whatever future is ahead of me. So my emotions are all over the place, night after night, resulting in me not getting adequate sleep.

I need coffee.

I set my hairbrush down, slide into my robe, and tie the belt around my waist. I exit my bedroom and stop short. My heart pounds harder. I blurt out, "What are you doing here?"

Valentina beams at me. "Don't look so happy to see us."

I glare at her, then slide my angry gaze to Zara.

She softly smiles with a sad expression. "I need to talk to you before Valentina does."

I cross my arms. "About what?"

"It's private. Please," Zara begs.

Valentina rises, pours a cup of coffee, then adds cream and sugar. She walks over and hands it to me. "Here. I'll wait in the guest bedroom."

"Just make yourself at home," I snap.

Her grin widens. "We'll be friends soon. You'll see."

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