Rebecca awoke feeling slightly uneasy on the morning of her first date with Prince Kaelen. As Elara cheerily pulled back the curtains welcoming the dawn light, Rebecca burrowed a bit deeper into her blankets instead of rising. Her nerves felt unusually jittery for reasons she couldn't quite place.

"Oh, Princess! I can't believe you are going on your first date today," Elara said excitedly as she coaxed Rebecca from bed to begin preparations for the afternoon.

Rebecca smiled weakly as Elara fastened her into a gown of soft rose and shimmering gold perfectly befitting for a first date. Its lace and beadwork bodice hugged Rebecca's slender figure before cascading into flowing skirts that pooled around her feet. Her gown complemented her natural grace, enhancing her beauty without overpowering it.

Elara then placed a Lumina gemstone necklace around her neck to finish of her attire. "You look beautiful, princess," she remarked with a warm smile.

Rebecca returned a shy smile in return and thanked her. Rebecca was usually more talkative in the morning while she gets ready for the day but she was getting more and more nervous for the date. It was her first ever date and so she did not know what to expect.

Elara understood Rebecca's predicament and tried to reassure her with soothing words. As she worked, Elara gently steered the conversation toward lighter topics, hoping to help settle Rebecca's nerves.

"Princess, have I mentioned how lovely that gown looks on you?" Elara teased.

Rebecca giggled softly, sounding happy yet revealing the bundle of nerves that still clung to her. Her eyes lit up with amusement at Elara's gentle ribbing, yet they still betrayed the apprehension swirling within over the day ahead.

"You may have mentioned it once or twice," Rebecca replied, her lips turning up slightly at the corners.

She appraised her figure in the mirror once more, turning to see how the dress caught the light. It was beautiful - and yet Rebecca struggled to still her trembling hands, smoothing invisible creases from the fabric.

"Thank you, Elara... I must admit, I'm feeling excited for the date but I am also dreading it at the same time. I can't help but wonder what Prince Kaelen has planned for today."

Elara smiled softly as she continued to attend to Rebecca, her touch deft and reassuring. "It's completely natural to feel that way, princess," she replied, her voice carrying a soothing warmth. "First dates can be nerve-wracking. But sometimes the most delightful surprises come from the unexpected. Whatever he has planned, I'm sure it will be a memory to cherish."

Rebecca sighed, a hint of vulnerability in her eyes. "I just hope I don't make a fool of myself."

Elara chuckled softly, her voice like a comforting melody. "Oh, princess, you could never do such a thing. I'm sure Prince Kaelen is absolutely smitten with you. Just be yourself, and I'm sure Prince Kaelen will see the wonderful person you are."

As Elara went to work on her hairstyle, they decided on an intricate braided crown that wound its way around her head, framing Rebecca's face with soft tendrils. The remaining locks cascaded down her back, creating a hairstyle that was half up and half down, adding an additional touch to her overall look. Rebecca caught her hand trembling slightly when reaching to adjust a stray curl. She hoped Prince Kaelen would not notice her inexplicable bout of skittish energy on what should be an enjoyable afternoon spent together.

As for her makeup, the focus was on enhancing her natural features. Elara applied a soft, rosy hue to Rebecca's cheeks and lips adding a subtle flush of color. With one last smile at her reflection and a small thanks to Elara, Rebecca turned and left her chambers, each step carrying her closer to her date.

----------------------------------

Princess Freen, amidst the bustling atmosphere of Lumina's month-long festival, watched with interest as the days unfolded. The dinner banquets were the perfect chance for Rebecca to get to know the visiting heirs, vying for her attention and her hand, better. And she had seen their attempts to capture Rebecca's heart. She noticed the way Rebecca responded to each advance, and despite herself, she felt a small twinge of envy knot in her chest on a few occasions.

Yet, she couldn't help but feel glad to see Rebecca having fun. Each time she heard Rebecca's laughter, her heart swelled with happiness, even if it meant sharing her with others who sought to capture her heart. Even though they weren't always together during the festival, it often felt as though they were. Stolen glances amidst conversations, smiles exchanged across the room, and the subtle brush of fingers as they passed each other all made her heart beat a little faster.

As the festival progressed, Freen took a different path from the other heirs. She didn't rush to ask for a date immediately. Instead, she wanted to truly understand Rebecca—her likes, her dislikes, her dreams, and aspirations. Their shared moments were quieter, more intimate, whether it was engaging in thoughtful conversations during events or sharing laughter in the palace gardens.

And now, as Freen walked along the palace corridors, Freen felt a tangle of emotions. She had been aware of Prince Kaelen's date, a fact that she had learned from Rebecca during their conversation in the palace gardens. Freen couldn't deny her curiosity about how things would unfold between Rebecca and Prince Kaelen.

Would he bring her flowers? Would he make her laugh freely and genuinely? She pictured Rebecca's eyes lighting up in delight at a surprise gift or brushing the prince's hand as they walked together. Freen shook her head slightly as if to dismiss of the unwelcome images. Rebecca deserved the chance to experience all that courtship had to offer - sweet words, romantic surprises, and stolen glances.

And... as much as it pained her, Freen refused to deprive Rebecca from exploring any opportunity that caught her interest. She did not wish to monopolize the princess' attention solely for herself, as captivated as she was in Rebecca's presence. Secretly, Freen hoped it would ultimately be her own affection that Rebecca chose to reciprocate.... Though if another suitor proved truly worthy of Rebecca's love, Freen would accept that graciously. For now, Freen simply hoped to see Rebecca's feelings returned by whoever had genuinely captured the princess' heart. Rebecca deserved every chance to have her heart completely swept away this festival.

Turning the corner, movement suddenly caught her eye ahead. Freen spotted Rebecca walking down the hallway some distance away, dressed up for her date. The princess had not noticed Freen, focused entirely on making her way down the hallway, probably nervous for her first date. Freen's gaze swept over Rebecca appreciatively as the princess drew nearer and she found herself utterly breathless by Rebecca's beauty - unable to tear her eyes away as she stayed hidden around the corner. Everything from Rebecca's rose gold gown to her dark tresses tumbling freely over her shoulders in soft waves had Freen utterly lost in how beautiful she looked.

Yet it was the subtler details that drew Freen in - the way Rebecca would glance shyly down the empty corridor as she passed by, likely wondering what the evening ahead would hold. How she would catch her lip nervously between her teeth before releasing it to blossom again into a hopeful smile.

As Rebecca passed by, a faint rose scent drifted by and Freen was overtaken by longing. Though subtle, barely even noticeable to most, Freen found Rebecca's omega scent utterly irresistible, attuned as she was to everything about the princess. It aroused a fierce protectiveness and yearning to have Rebecca dress so alluringly for her alone. To be the one eliciting Rebecca's shy excitement. Freen had to restrain herself from going up to Rebecca and crash her date. That would have looked quite unpleasant, Freen mused. And yet - never before had another's scent so intoxicated and compelled her so. She had never been one to be overly jealous of her partners before.

Freen's lips curved into a bittersweet smile as she watched Rebecca's figure disappear around the corner. She drawed a sigh - both wistful and crestfallen. As Rebecca's scent faded, Freen came back to herself - only to realize her hands had curled into tense fists, nails biting crescents into her palms. Never before had she felt such a violent wave of envy and possession roil through her, unbidden yet undeniable.

She unfurled her fingers slowly, understanding dawning bright and terrible. Her affection for Rebecca ran much deeper than even she had grasped... She hadn't realized how much her feelings for Rebecca had grown in such a short time. Why, Freen had only truly come to know the princess over the last week at best. Their relationship was still tentative and new. And yet how quickly Rebecca had bypassed her usual defenses to nestle into her heart!

Freen thought back to when they first met, how she merely brushed off Rebecca as just another typical alpha —polite smiles, perfected gestures, and rehearsed conversations. Yet everything changed once Freen learned Rebecca was, in fact, an omega. Now, the the memory of Rebecca's smile made Freen long for her. In the span of a few conversations, the princess had managed to weave herself into Freen's heart.

Freen exhaled unsteadily. This reaction went beyond mere fondness. Freen's past courtships had started innocently enough — a sudden confession from someone she scarcely knew beyond cordial greeting, where Freen had initially declined. After she had gotten to know them better, she somehow found herself falling into a relationship. She was not exactly looking for anything, nor had she ever found herself curious or attracted to any suitor prior to their admissions.

Yet, what she felt for Rebecca was much more. Rebecca had her curious since day one, even though their initial meeting was not the best. What power the princess held over her now. She could neither deny the unexpected depth of her affections, nor the fear that they would prove unreturned. She sensed that Rebecca was not yet ready to have a relationship with her, mainly because she, too, is an omega If only she was an alpha like her brother and sister. Then perhaps it would have been easier for Rebecca to accept her and openly return her feelings. It was not that Freen doubted Rebecca's feelings for her. Yet years of tradition and parental expectations can be hard to break, especially for someone like Rebecca who rarely goes against her parents' wishes.

Now watching Rebecca being in another's company ignited a painful jealousy within her core. But there was nothing Freen could do to stop it, was there? It wasn't as if she could request v stop her date, or any future dates, when the two of them were not even officially together. As much as Freen wanted to be by Rebecca's side, there really was nothing she could do. No, all Freen could do was wrestle with her feelings until her date.

------------------

Across the palace, Kaelen paced the length of his guest chambers, too restless to stand still as his valet neatly laid out the sapphire coat and vest for his outing with Princess Rebecca.

"I should have picked red roses instead," Kaelen murmured, glancing out at the extravagant bouquet of blush peonies arranged in a vase by the window, imported at no small expense for today.

His fingers fidgeted with a silver pocket watch, flipping it open to check the time before snapping it closed. He had planned today's date down to each minute detail, leaving nothing to chance to hopefully show Rebecca how sincere he was. Today had to be flawless, unforgettable. He hope Rebecca would like him as he did for her.

For even beyond Rebecca's obvious beauty, there was an elegance to her manner and quick cleverness to her conversation that had utterly charmed Kaelen from their very first meeting. She carried herself with innate grace and composure that seemed so at odds with her omega nature. Far more than just a lovely face, the princess intrigued him deeply with her desire to affect meaningful change and bring more equality for all.

Yes, today had to go perfectly for Kaelen to prove he wished for something more with Rebecca. To show how much more he could offer if she would grant him the honor of courting her.

Time was running short and here he still stood wrestling with second guesses instead of confidently proceeding to wait his date. One deep, steadying breath later - and Kaelen felt the assuredness of one bred for royalty return. Chin high, he turned sharply on his heel to his awaiting valet.

"Well? How do I look?" Kaelen asked, a hint of his signature roguish smile playing at his lips once more. No other lady had ever managed to unravel his composure so. Yet for Rebecca, he didn't mind the delightful unsettling of it if it meant winning her hand today. After all, a princess deserves a prince who would move heaven and earth to dazzle her.

---------------------------------------------------

As Kaelen stood at the appointed location, his heart quickened in anticipation. The soft whisper of footsteps signaled Rebecca's approach, and as he turned to see her descending the staircase, his breath caught in his throat. His eyes traced over her face, the way the gown accentuated her graceful figure, the pleasing hue the colors lent to her complexion...but most captivating was the shy yet earnest smile that spread across Rebecca's lips as she noticed him waiting for her.

He stepped forward to greet her as she reached the last steps, taking her outstretched hand and bowing graciously over it.

"Princess Rebecca, you look absolutely beautiful today," Kaelen complimented warmly, delighted in the way the praise seemed to make Rebecca's cheeks flush. "Shall we start our date with a hint of mystery?" He finished with a mischievous glint in his eyes.

"Thank you, Prince Kaelen," Rebecca shyly replied, her voice carrying a soft warmth. "I must admit your proposal sounds quite enticing," she continued curiously. "A day of mystery under your guidance—I'm eager to see where this leads."

Kaelen's eyes glinted with amusement as he met Rebecca's curious gaze. Her response mirrored his own light-hearted approach, and he found himself drawn to her spirited demeanor.

"I'm delighted to hear that you're up for the challenge, Princess Rebecca," he replied, his tone a playful echo of her own. "How do you feel about surprises?" Kaelen asked grinning, proffering his arm which she took.

"Should I be concerned about your hints of mystery and surprises?" She raised an eyebrow in amusement.

"Never with me," Kaelen promised earnestly. "Although..." He paused, eyes sparkling. "I cannot reveal our exact destination, lest I spoil the fun! But I vow you shall thoroughly enjoy every moment planned."

Rebecca laughed softly. "Very well, sir. I place myself entirely in your safe hands."

With a twinkle in his eye, Kaelen extended a scroll, adorned with a red ribbon. "Shall we start on a journey of riddles and treasure, Princess Rebecca?"

Rebecca accepted it eagerly, unfurling the parchment to reveal a list of questions awaiting to be answered. "I'm intrigued, Prince Kaelen. Lead the way."

Kaelen's treasure hunt led Rebecca through the palace grounds, sites that he picked both for its beauty and traces of history he hoped Rebecca might share. Rebecca's eyes gleamed with excitement as she deciphered riddles that led her through secret corridors and beneath sunlit courtyards. As they strolled along the garden paths, Kaelen began opening up more about his life in Draconia - the mountain ranges that swept down to the sea, the towering castle turrets that grazed drifting clouds.

"My favorite childhood spot was a little hill that rolled all the way to the sea cliffs," he shared, a faraway sadness touching his smile. "My mother and I often picnicked under the lone apricot tree there when I was younger..."

Rebecca tilted her head, regarding him with empathy in her eyes. "You must miss those times with your mother."

Kaelen chuckled. "Yes I do miss those time but especially my mother. My mother struggled to keep me clean and proper whenever we visited the beach. I would always sneak off to wade in tidal pools or climb rocky outlooks, heedless of dirtying my clothes."

His expression turned wistful. "We lost her when I was eight. After that, my adventures felt lonely without her laughter echoing nearby.

Rebecca gave his arm a gentle, consoling squeeze. "Oh Kaelen, I'm so sorry. I don't know how you feel but losing a parent so young is a grief that no child should bear."

"They say time heals all," she said softly. "But I find sharing memories with those who truly listen can do more to ease an aching heart."

Kaelen managed a bittersweet yet grateful smile. "You always were wise beyond your years, Rebecca." He covered her hand with his, shoulders straightening as though a heavy weight had lifted.

As they continued along the garden path, he added softly, "My mother always dreamed of traveling across the world by sea one day. We had plans to explore the world together when I came of age."

He gave a wistful chuckle. "She wanted to be one of the first to be by my side when I old enough to travel on my own. Mother always said it was not the destinations that thrilled her most, but rather the journey together - sharing the adventure as we sailed to other kingdoms."

Rebecca gave his arm another squeeze as they walked along the path. "You both had such a special bond. She would be so happy to see the person you have become today Kaelen. I'm sure of it!"

"Perhaps someday you still could travel by sea," Rebecca said. I"am sure part of your mother's spirit will be there in heart if you do set sail to fulfill those promises one day

Kaelen managed a small, bittersweet smile. "You know, you remind me of her sometimes. You both have this aura around yourself that's both warm and quietly wise. I always miss talking to my mother. She was always there for me when I needed her."

Rebecca returned his smile warmly. "Well, I don't know much about your mother, but she sounded like an incredible women," she said nudging him playfully. "I may not be your mother, but I'm here if you need someone to talk to.... However, I do hope you consider sailing...I know it won't be quite the same without your mother's physical presence, but exploring the world may help honor her memory in a meaningful way - I confess the thought intrigues me as well."

Kaelen raised a brow in pleasant surprise. "My princess, I thought you are the type to prefer books and libraries to such seafaring dangers?"

"And who says one cannot have adventures between pages before going on their own?" Rebecca replied indignantly, her eyes shining.

Kaelen grinned, pleasantly surprised at this side of Rebecca. She is the complete opposite of what he had thought, but far from disliking it, he found himself drawn to her even more.

Rebecca blushed a little but held his gaze steadily. "I must confess, I have always been rather cautious, careful not to break any rules... My parents, let's just say that they expected nothing short of perfect obedience and had always wanted me to act accordingly," she admitted. "Unlike your parents, I did not have the benefit of such affection or warmth in the palace as I grew up. My family was rather cold and distant, prioritizing discipline over love.

Her eyes took on a hint of wistfulness before she caught herself, smoothing her expression. But thinking of Kaelen's loving mother only sharpened the contrast to her own detached royal upbringing.

"There were only a handful of time where I did not follow as they wished. But I was only a child at that time, and it can be hard to do everything perfectly when there is little warmth or affection to nurture you. Especially when you think that, of course your parents must love you, as all children do. But after the countless amount of time I tried to get my parents to love me, I realized that nothing can be done and so... I guess, I matured more swiftly than most children... leaving the childish longing behind."

Rebecca's gaze grew distant. "So I studied hard, practiced all the disciplines fitting a future queen. With such rigid expectations, there was scarcely time for childish fancy. My days became lessons, duties, and recitations until I scarcely remembered the little girl who once dreamed and wondered..."

Her voice drifted off, as if mourning the loss of that innocence. But she quickly collected herself, twisting her hands together anxiously, as she managed a polite smile. "Forgive me, I do not mean to burden you with such personal matters. It was thoughtless of me to lay this on you on our date."

Rebecca blushed deeply, suddenly self-conscious after revealing so much. She had not meant to expose her vulnerabilities and private pains to someone she still scarcely knew. She risked a quick, embarrassed glance at Kaelen's face, afraid she had made him uncomfortable with her openness. But rather than judgement, his hazel eyes held a sadness and understanding that surprised her.

"Please, do not apologize," he said gently. "There is no need to feel self-conscious. I guess we both had a childhood that was not so perfect."

Seeing traces of lingering unease in her face, he added lightly, "But come! We still have a treasure hunt to finish before sundown." He grinned and offered his hand.

Rebecca felt unexpected relief flood through her at his reassuring words. With a small, grateful smile she placed her hand in his. Perhaps with Kaelen, just like with Freen, she could let down her guard and simply be accepted as she was.

As they continued the treasure hunt, they learned more about each other. They discovered common interests, such as an appreciation for art and music and a shared sense of adventure. With each clue that Rebecca solved, they found out more about each other and Rebecca found herself not wanting the day to end.

Finally, their journey led them to the palace tower. Winding staircases spiraled up, leading to a magnificent view at the top. Emerging breathlessly at the top, Rebecca gasped seeing the city sparkling with the soft glow of lanterns and the palace gardens blooming with flowers. It was a breathtaking sight, one that Rebecca rarely visits and she thought that she should head up to the tower more often.

Rebecca stepped closer to the balcony edge, enthralled by the breathtaking sight, one that she rarely took time to enjoy.

Kaelen moved next to her with a smile. "It's breathtaking, isn't it?" he remarked.

Rebecca tore her gaze away to meet his eyes, still startled by the beauty. "Yes, it's wonderful..." she replied. "I can't believe I don't come here to admire it all more frequently."

Rebecca couldn't help but feel her heart flutter in this moment but as she stood there with Kaelen, a nagging unease settled within her. The evening had been filled with laughter and intimate moments, and she genuinely enjoyed Kaelen's company. He was kind and considerate, and she felt comfortable around him. But as the breeze ruffled her hair and their eyes met beneath the moon's gaze, she couldn't help but wonder if there was more between them than friendship.

Rebecca appreciated Kaelen's presence in her life, but she couldn't deny that her heart didn't beat in quite the same way it did when she thought of someone else. Though she longed for adventure and excitement, she wasn't sure if Kaelen was the one who could awaken those feelings within her. Their connection felt more like that of friends, and as they stood together at the top of the palace tower, she grappled with her feelings.

She turned to meet Kaelen's eyes, searching her heart for any spark beyond friendship. But she found none - only warm affection for the kind prince who had made today's date so enjoyable.

"It's been an incredible evening, Kaelen," Rebecca finally admitted, breaking the silence. "I've enjoyed every moment of today."

Kaelen's smile widened. "I'm glad to hear that. I wanted our first date to be fun. I've had a wonderful time as well. In fact..." he hesitated, hope glimmering in his eyes, "every moment with you only makes me care for you more."

He moved closer and gently took her hands, searching her eyes. "I was wondering if perhaps you feel the same way and that there could be something more that could happen between us?"

Rebecca's smile slowly faded at this sudden confession, her eyes widening in surprise. She drew a slow breath as Kaelen watched her expectantly. She cared for him as a treasured friend but struggled how to tell him her heart did not mirror his affection. Her heart twisted with uncertainty and empathy over having to hurt one she had come to cherish.

"Kaelen..." she began gently. She hesitated, hating to cause him any pain. But she could not pretend to match his feelings when her heart was beating elsewhere. There was no choice but honesty...

"I care for you deeply. I cannot properly express what your friendship means to me. But I only see you as a friend... I'm so sorry," she said giving an apologetic smile.

Kaelen squeezed her hand with bittersweet understanding. Disappointment flickered across his face before he managed a small smile. "I... no I'm sorry. I never meant to make you uncomfortable.

He ran a hand through his hair, turning his gaze back to the view before them. When he finally met her eyes again, Rebecca was relieved to see only affection shining back at her.

"I cannot pretend I am not disappointed," Kaelen admitted with a self-deprecating chuckle. "But the heart wants what it wants - that much I understand."

Impulsively he brought her hand to his lips in an old-fashioned, courtly gesture. "I really do wish you all the happiness you can get, whether it includes me or another."

Kaelen gave her hand an affectionate squeeze before releasing it. "I hope this changes nothing between us. Your friendship is far too precious to me to lose." His eyes were earnest, and Rebecca could see the sincerity in his words.

"Of course we're still friends," she assured him warmly, relief flooding through her.

Kaelen smiled, though it didn't quite reach his eyes. She hopes that they'll still be able to preserve their friendship and that his words weren't false.

"Come - we should head back before the palace worries about their princess," he teased gently. "I'm surprised that no one has tried to find us yet."

Arm in arm, they slowly descended the winding staircases of the tower back towards the palace. The lights of the royal gardens guided their footsteps through the quiet darkness.

When they reached the doorway leading inside, Kaelen paused. "Thank you again for joining me today, Rebecca," he said sincerely. "I'm sorry again if it seemed as if I unexpectedly confessed to you at the tower."

Wend smiled back up at him apologetically. "No don't worry about it Kaelen. I had a pleasant time... and your confession... while it did surprise me, you did not make me feel uncomfortable. Thank you again for such a wonderful evening."