The Cursed Prince's Strange Bride



Alicia woke up with tears in her eyes again. 

She had been having strange dreams lately. Maybe it was because she had been burying herself in history that she now even dreams of being a part of it. 

She felt every sadness, every happiness, every heartbreak. But all the other faces were blurred. It was like she was there, but at the same time, it was like she wasn't there. 

It seemed like something was trying to reach out to her, and she was also trying to reach out to something, but there was this invincible barrier that was making it difficult for any of it to happen. 

Mabel had advised her to stop reading anything on it. Rather, they took yoga sessions seriously to help her meditate and heal her mind. 

She continued this routine until the night of the occasion. 

She was a bundle of nerves. It was the first time she was going to reveal herself to the world, and she was doing that without the permission of the director. She didn't need anyone's permission.

Alicia stepped out of the car, the harsh camera flashes momentarily blinding her. Reporters swarmed around her, their voices blending into a cacophony of questions and speculation.

She wore an outfit that elegantly complemented her striking blue eyes and exuded an air of understated sophistication.

When she looked at her reflection earlier, she felt weird. Pretty, yes. But she felt unfamiliar with herself. 

Her attire consisted of a floor-length gown crafted from a deep midnight blue fabric that seemed to shift and shimmer as she moved. The dress hugged her curves in all the right places, flowing gracefully with each step she took. The bodice featured intricate beadwork that sparkled like stardust, adding a touch of glamour to the ensemble.

The neckline of the gown was a delicate sweetheart cut, framing Alicia's collarbones and drawing attention to her slender neck. Her shoulders were adorned with sheer lace sleeves that draped down to her wrists, adding an ethereal quality to her appearance.

As Alicia turned, the gown revealed an elegant open back with a hint of bare skin juxtaposed against the intricate fabric. The dress then cascaded into a flowing train that trailed behind her, creating an aura of regal elegance.

Her choice of accessories was subtle yet impactful. She wore a pair of sapphire drop earrings that echoed the colour of her eyes, their deep blue hues capturing the light and adding a touch of sparkle to her visage. A delicate silver bracelet adorned her wrist, its simplicity enhancing the overall sophistication of her look.

Alicia's hair was swept up into an intricate chignon, allowing her delicate features to take centre stage. A few loose tendrils framed her face, softening the overall look and giving her an air of effortless beauty.

Her makeup was a perfect balance between natural and polished. Soft shades of taupe and silver graced her eyelids, enhancing the intensity of her blue eyes. Her lips were adorned with a subtle nude shade, allowing her eyes to remain the focal point.

As Alicia stepped onto the red carpet, the cameras couldn't help but be drawn to her. It seemed like the others were confused for a few seconds before they recognized that it was indeed her. 

Alicia Queen.

Not only the reporters but also the other guests. 

However, amidst her elegance, there was a subtle gesture that she couldn't suppress. Occasionally, she would absentmindedly rub the back of her neck, a motion that Mabel had noticed since the moment she woke up but was now even more frequent tonight. Concern etched Mabel's features as she gently touched Alicia's arm.

"Are you sure your neck is okay?" Mabel's voice was laced with concern as her eyes searched Alicia's face.

Alicia's fingers stilled on the back of her neck as she looked at Mabel, her expression slightly distant. "I don't know. It's just a habit, I guess."

Mabel's worry remained, her concern for Alicia's well-being evident. "Let's get it checked again tomorrow."

"I don't think that is something we should be discussing with all these cameras on us," Alicia whispered to her.

As they continued down the red carpet, Alicia's fingers returned to their absentminded rubbing. But surrounded by the excitement of the event and the newfound determination in her heart, she pushed aside her worries for the time being, fully embracing the world that awaited her.

"Ms. Alicia, why were you keeping your health under wraps?"

"Can we expect a statement about your recent absence?"

"Are you fit enough to be here tonight?"

"Did you really try to take your life?"

"Don't you think you owe your fans an apology?"

Mabel tried to get her out of there as soon as possible, and Alicia was quietly following until the last two questions came and she stopped. 

"No," Mabel warned quietly. She knew what came next whenever Alicia had that determined look on her face. However, it seemed very different tonight. 

Her aura was different. 

"You shall all be silent!" Alicia raised her hand, signalling a moment of quiet. The reporters hesitated, their microphones held at the ready, but everyone was suddenly quiet. 

"Ladies and gentlemen, I understand your curiosity, but my health is a private matter. I am here tonight because I have a genuine interest in the historical artefacts that are being showcased. Let's focus on the event itself, shall we?"

A hush fell over the crowd as Alicia's stern response reverberated. 

"If anyone of you dares to ask anything contrary to the reason we are here..." They all waited for the threat. 

"Don't just try it. Because I do not even know what I will do to you." Her threat was clear, and every one of them just stared at each other, hesitant. 

Mabel stood by her side, her eyes wide with surprise, but she was grateful Alicia wasn't using any curse words but rather a new manner of speech that made her sound odd and archaic.

Another reporter regained their composure and managed to stutter out a question. "Ms. Alicia, can you elaborate on your connection to history?"

Alicia's face softened as she turned in his direction to answer. "History is like a puzzle—an intricate tapestry woven with stories, perspectives, and untold secrets. I've spent countless hours researching, trying to uncover the truth buried beneath layers of time. Tonight, I'm here to immerse myself in these artefacts and deepen my understanding of our shared past. And I am grateful for the chance to explore all of these even before they are made open to the general public." She said humbly. 

The reporters exchanged astonished glances, clearly not expecting such a thoughtful response. The camera flashes continued to erupt, capturing the moment as Alicia held her ground with an air of quiet determination.

Mabel gave Alicia's hand a discreet squeeze, her pride evident in her eyes. "Well done," she whispered. 

Alicia returned her smile before they turned away, and they hadn't moved far ahead when she felt a sharp burn in her heart, and the pain made her gasp and trip. 

But before she could fall, someone caught her, holding her in his embrace.

"Are you having a conversation in your head?" The quiet deep voice asked.