Chapter 3 - My Precious King: Chapter 3 - Whispers and Shadows

Kai's days transformed into a delightful routine. He would work diligently at the bakery, his mind buzzing with ideas for new pastries to tempt the prince. Every few days, he would receive a discreet invitation to the palace, where he and Ren would spend hours talking in the secluded garden. Kai learned about Ren's passion for art, his frustration with the rigid court, and his dreams of a more just kingdom. Ren, in turn, seemed fascinated by Kai's simple life, his unwavering optimism, and his genuine kindness.But their secret meetings did not go unnoticed.Lady Annelise, a beautiful and ambitious noblewoman, had her sights set on becoming Prince Ren's wife. She saw Kai as nothing more than an insignificant distraction, a commoner who dared to trespass on her territory. She began to spread rumors, whispering in the ears of courtiers about Kai's "unseemly" influence over the prince, hinting at scandalous behavior and questioning his motives.One afternoon, as Kai made his way to the palace, he was stopped by a stern-faced guard. "I'm sorry, Master Kai," the guard said, his voice devoid of warmth. "His Highness is unavailable. You are not permitted to enter the palace today."Kai's heart sank. "But... I was invited," he stammered."I have my orders," the guard replied, unyielding.Dejected, Kai turned and walked away, the weight of Lady Annelise's machinations pressing down on him. He knew that she was behind this, that she was determined to keep him away from Ren.That evening, as he helped his father close the bakery, a young boy slipped him a note. "From His Highness," the boy whispered, before disappearing into the crowd.Kai unfolded the note, his hands trembling. "Meet me at the old oak tree by the river at midnight," it read. "There are those who seek to keep us apart. I will explain everything."Midnight arrived, cloaked in shadows and whispers. Kai stood beneath the ancient oak, his heart pounding in his chest. He didn't have to wait long.Ren emerged from the darkness, his face etched with worry. "Kai," he said, his voice low. "I'm so sorry. Annelise...""I know," Kai interrupted, his voice filled with a newfound resolve. "She doesn't want me near you."Ren took Kai's hands in his. "She doesn't understand," he said, his eyes filled with a fierce determination. "She doesn't understand what you mean to me."He stepped closer, his gaze locking with Kai's. "I won't let her win," he whispered. "I promise you, Kai. I will not let anyone keep us apart."And as the moon cast its silvery glow upon them, Kai knew that their love story was far from over. It was just beginning, and it was about to become a battle against the forces that sought to tear them apart.