the prince was waiting by the poolside. He had mixed emotions about this whole selection. His father couldn’t choose a worse time could he, but nonetheless, he was excited to meet new people.

grace spotted the prince and walked up to him. “hi,” she said with a curtsy and a smile. “i’m lady grace.”

“It’s nice to meet you Lady Grace,” the prince said, his accent showing through, “How was the plane ride?”

grace smiled. “it’s very nice to meet you. it was okay,” she said, trying not to show how nervous she was and how scared she had been on the plane.

“That’s good,” he said, gesturing for her to come sit beside him, “Are you okay?” he asked.

grace sat beside him and sighed. “yeah, now i am. there’s was turbulence on the plane- it just brought back unwanted memories.” she looked at the prince and asked, “are you okay?”

there was**

“I’m sorry,” he apologized, “And I’ve been better...since my brother was assassinated we’ve been given no time to mourn and things have just been chaotic,” he admitted

“oh,” she said with a slight surprise. she never imagined the prince to have this much feelings, that he was sharing with her. “well, i know how it feels to lose someone you love. it isn’t easy, prince or not.”

“Yeah, well...my father doesn’t think that. Even though he was also his father,” he shook his head in dismay, “And..I’m sorry for your loss as well,”

“parents can be difficult, and i can’t even imagine all of the pressure of being a royal,” she frowned at his sadness. “thank you.”

“So...” Prince Damien sighed, trying to change the subject, “What are some of your hobbies?” he asked