CHAPTER 2

Aide Kim approached Leo's study as they sight him busy with paper works, Ana trailing behind with a tray. "Your Highness, Anna made a special tea blend. She insists it'll help with... your insomnia."

Leo's gaze lifted from the papers, skeptical. "A tea?"

Aide Kim nodded. "She used valerian root, your highness. Says it'll promote sleep. And there's no need to be afraid your highness, I watched her prepare it"

Leo's expression turned unreadable. "Bring it."

Ana stepped forward, her hands steady as she poured the tea. The aroma wafted up – earthy, calming. Leo's eyes narrowed.

"Drink it," he commanded Aide Kim.

Aide Kim hesitated, then took a sip. "It's... pleasant, sir."

Leo took the cup from Ana, his fingers brushing hers. He downed the tea in one gulp.

The room fell silent. Ana watched, her heart racing. Would it work?

A minute passed. Leo's gaze softened, just a fraction. "Aide Kim... leave us."

Aide Kim bowed and exited. Leo's eyes locked on Ana. "You made this."

Ana nodded, her voice barely above a whisper. "Yes, sir."

" leave" he commanded as Ana left

Leo peeled open his eyes to the warmth of his room. He checked his wall clock: 7am. He'd slept from 11pm to 7am – his first time sleeping more than three hours in years.

A knock interrupted his thoughts. "Enter."

Aide Kim stepped in, a hint of a smile on his face. "Your Majesty, seems like you slept well."

Leo's expression was unreadable, but a flicker of surprise crossed his eyes. "Aide Kim... I'm amazed as you're."

Aide Kim chuckled low. "That Ana girl is really something else."

Leo's gaze narrowed slightly. "Uhm."

Aide Kim cleared his throat. "Well, Your Highness, you have a meeting by 8am. You have to freshen up and prepare"

The council chamber was filled with dignitaries and royal advisors, discussing Leo's impending marriage to Princess Emily of a neighboring kingdom. The alliance would secure trade benefits and strengthen borders.

Duke Harris spoke, "The wedding would solidify our position against the northern threats. Princess Emily is well-educated, poised—"

Leo shifted, trying to speak up. "But—"

Queen Dowager Elena, Leo's mother, turned to him. "Prince Leo, let Duke Harris speak."

Leo's words tumbled as he tried again. "I... I don't..."

Suddenly, Leo's vision blurred. He gripped the armrest, losing balance. Aide Kim rushed to his side.

"your highness!"

The room froze. Queen Dowager Elena's voice was sharp. "Prince Leo, what's happening?"

Leo's eyes fluttered. He slumped back, Aide Kim catching him.

Ana scrubbed the dishes, her ears tuning into the hushed whispers of the other maids.

"The prince fainted during the meeting with his uncle and the dignitaries."

"What could've caused that?"

"They've called the Royal Medical Specialist, I heard."