Prince Kai's POV continues

Tammy, my first love, was a beauty in her own right, but Giselle was something else entirely. I couldn't compare them, not yet, not until I met Giselle in person.

I sighed, feeling a sense of longing wash over me. "She's different," I said finally. "Giselle isn't like Tammy, I  can't quite describe her."

Mother's expression turned serious, her eyes narrowing slightly. "We must find her," she said, her voice firm. "We must bring her to the palace, and make her yours."

I nodded, determination burning within me. I would find Giselle, no matter what it took.

"I need to find Giselle to fulfill the prophecy and cure Father's illness," I said, my mind racing with determination.

"Once that's done, we can divorce and part ways. She's merely a means to an end." I added. "If she tries to run away, I'll make sure she knows the consequences. I'll threaten her with her father's life, and Father-in-law will finally serve his purpose."

"Guards!" I called out, my voice echoing through the hall. A guard hurried in, bowing low. "Bring me my father-in-law," I ordered, my eyes narrowing in anticipation. It's time we had a chat.

I sat upon my throne, awaiting my father-in-law's arrival. The servant I had sent earlier returned with him. Despite being a captive in our kingdom, he was treated with the respect due to his position.

However, his privileges were limited to prevent escape or communication with his family outside our kingdom.

As he entered the throne room, his eyes scanned the space, perhaps searching for an escape or a glimmer of hope.

It had been a while since I last summoned him here. The last time, I had inquired about his daughter Giselle's and wife's whereabouts, but he feigned ignorance. Our searches yielded nothing, so we had to resort to more persuasive measures.

"Dear father-in-law," I began, "I have news regarding your daughter Giselle." His eyes narrowed, sensing a trap. "I have finally seen her face." He choked on his drink, and I smiled, anticipating his reaction.

"What did you just say?" he asked, his voice filled with fear.

"I saw Giselle," I repeated, my gaze locked on him. "And soon, I will send my guards to retrieve her and bring her back to this kingdom."

He cleared his throat, a nervous habit. "Prince Kyle, I know you're not a bad person. The incident years ago was not your fault."

My anger rose, but I kept my voice neutral. "The incident that took my loved ones' lives years ago, when I was still younger, is one of the reasons why I must fulfill this prophecy.

Though I was innocent, many in this kingdom still blame me, calling me the 'cold kid' who took part in the tragedy. My name may be cleared, but the whispers persist. This prophecy is my chance to save our kingdom and redeem my reputation."

He sighed, looking at me with a mix of sadness and pity. "I understand, but as a father, I cannot force my daughter into a marriage she doesn't want. Please, don't make her do this."

I leaned forward. "I will find Giselle, and I will marry her to fulfill this prophecy.
When we're done, you may reunite with your family. As a last resort, I'll ensure your freedom, but know this: I will not be stopped."

I called for the painter, who presented a portrait of Giselle. Her beauty took my father-in-law's breath away.

"She looks just like me and Isabel," he whispered, his eyes welling up.

I allowed him to take the portrait, a small mercy. "You may go. I'll summon you when I have news."

As he departed, I watched his figure disappear into the hallway. It was time to bring Giselle to our kingdom and fulfill the prophecy, no matter the cost.