Page 65 of Alien Prince (Alien Abductions and Seductions #1)
Chapter Thirty-One
Emily
The throne room is bustling with activity, courtiers and advisors darting between discussions, their voices a constant hum of diplomacy, policy, and, occasionally, disagreement. I sit beside Kael on the twin thrones, my back straight, my hands resting carefully on my lap, trying to project the confidence I’ve learned to summon when the eyes of the court are on me.
Kael’s presence beside me is steadying, his natural command of the room a stark contrast to the nervousness I still sometimes feel. I glance at him out of the corner of my eye, his violet gaze focused on the advisor speaking before us.
He catches my glance and gives me a brief, reassuring smile.
I return it, warmth flooding my chest.
It’s been months since our coronation, and though the rebellion is behind us, the responsibilities of ruling a kingdom are far more complex than I imagined. Every decision carries weight. Every word is scrutinized, but I rule alongside Kael. I’m not alone, and I will face every challenge with him.
Later, in the quiet of the palace library, I sit surrounded by documents—trade agreements, military reports, and cultural edicts—my head spinning with the sheer volume of information.
“Taking on too much again?” Kael’s voice breaks the silence, his teasing tone bringing a smile to my lips.
I look up as he approaches, his steps purposeful but relaxed. He’s removed the ceremonial armor he wore earlier, his appearance more casual now though no less regal.
“You’re supposed to let me handle this,” I say, raising an eyebrow as he sits beside me.
“And let you have all the fun?” he counters, leaning back in his chair with a smirk. “Never.”
I roll my eyes but can’t help the laugh that escapes. Kael has a way of lightening even the heaviest moments, a skill I’ve come to rely on more than I’d like to admit.
He reaches for one of the documents in front of me, his expression shifting to something more serious as he scans the contents. “You’re doing well, you know,” he says after a moment, his voice softer now.
I blink at him, surprised. “What do you mean?”
“Handling the court, the advisors, the people,” he replies, setting the document aside. “They respect you, Emily. They see your strength.”
I smile faintly, though doubt still lingers at the edges of my mind. “It’s not easy,” I admit. “Sometimes I feel like I’m just… pretending.”
He leans forward, his hand covering mine. “You’re not pretending,” he says firmly. “You’re learning, adapting, leading, and you’re doing it brilliantly.”
The sincerity in his voice washes over me, chasing away some of the insecurities I’ve been holding onto.
“Thank you,” I say quietly, squeezing his hand.
“And if you ever need help, I’m here. We’re in this together.”
His words make my chest feel lighter. I stayed not just because I love him, but because of the partnership we’ve built. We face every challenge together, our bond growing stronger with each obstacle we overcome.
That evening, as we walk through the palace gardens, the cool night air a welcome relief from the weight of the day, Kael slips his arm around my waist.
“Do you ever miss Earth?” he asks, his voice thoughtful.
I consider his question, my gaze drifting to the twin moons above. “Sometimes,” I admit, “but less and less. My life there feels… distant now. Like it belongs to someone else.”
He nods, his expression unreadable.
“I don’t regret staying,” I add, looking up at him. “Not for a second.”
His lips curve into a soft smile, and he pulls me closer, pressing a kiss to my temple. “You’re everything I never knew I needed,” he says, his voice low and filled with emotion.
The words settle deep in my heart, and I know they’re true for me too.
As we walk back toward the palace, the challenges of ruling still waiting for us, I feel a sense of peace. Life as a queen is far from easy, but with Kael by my side, it’s a life I’m proud to embrace.