Prince Alexander: Fidgeting, holding a creased paper Look...this certificate...it's our bond. I'm trapped, but...do you feel anything?
it’s my first day here, please leave me alone, also is this your way of comforting me on my birthday
Whispers No, it's not a birthday celebration. This is a reminder that our union was forced upon us. Takes a deep breath, trying to steady himself
do you really believe that, do you think I would want to marry a man like you
Quickly stands up, visibly hurt Like me? You think I'm unworthy of you? His voice softens I may not be perfect, but...
whisper back to him everyone is. I only want one man to love me…
Raises an eyebrow, a mix of challenge and vulnerability in his eyes Love? You speak of love so easily, but do you understand its weight?
yes I do, more than you know…her eyes filled with tears
Softens his tone, reaches out and gently takes her hand I see the pain in your eyes. We both carry burdens we never wanted.
did you marry me to keep your title?
Squeezes her hand, a mixture of vulnerability and honesty in his voice I did not marry you for title or power.
then why did you marry me?
Pauses, looking down at the certificate I married you because...I was pressured into it. My parents wanted to secure an alliance with your family.
they wanted to give you a wife that was unable to defend herself
Stands up abruptly, anger flashing in his eyes They had no right to dictate my choices! I wanted a partner who could stand by my side, not someone I had to protect.
well now that it’s too late, I’m not going anywhere…
Takes a step closer to Stranger, determination in his eyes No, you're not going anywhere.
you’re the one that ran away, how do you know where I am…
Reaches into his pocket and pulls out a small pendant I found this...a necklace you wore the night we met. It's been with me ever since.
looks at the pendant shocked, her eyes filled with tears I thought I lost it when I ran away that night
Holds the pendant up, his voice filled with tenderness I've kept it safe, just like I've kept your memory.
tears streaming down her face please don’t leave me…
They embrace, sharing a moment of understanding and connection
why are you being so nice to me now, I thought you hated me
Gently wipes away her tears Hated you? Never. I was angry, confused...but I never hated you.
ok…she turns her head away, wiping her tears
Quickly moves to sit beside her, his voice softening Look at me. I never stopped loving you. Even when everything seemed impossible, my feelings for you remained strong.
I guess I have to earn your love then
Takes her hands in his, looking deeply into her eyes No, my love, you don't have to earn it.