The Billionaire Prince Pretended to Be Crippled to Find True Love—What Happened Changed Everything

The Billionaire Prince Pretended to Be Crippled to Find True Love—What Happened Changed Everything

That flower arrangement is too close to the entrance. Move it carefully to the other side. Careful, do not damage it. Those flowers were arranged specially for today.   Yes, ma. We’ll make sure nothing happens to it.  Those chairs must remain in one straight line.

The elders will be seated in this section. The royal guests will sit on the other side. Leave enough space between both sections. He has not returned home permanently in 12 years. Today must look perfect.  Yes, ma. I will make sure the entrance remains clear.  Go to the guest rooms and make sure every room is ready for the arriving royal families.

The princesses and their parents will begin arriving very soon. Do not overlook anything.  Yes, ma. I will check every room immediately. The royal kitchen has started preparing breakfast and the lunch menu is also ready.  What about the private dining hall? Has everything there been properly arranged?   Yes, ma.

The tables, decorations, and serving stations have all been arranged.  And the crown prince’s private room? Is everything prepared there?  It has been cleaned and prepared with fresh bed sheets, flowers, and the clothes selected by the queen.  Check the room again.  Again, ma? We checked everything carefully last night.

The crown prince left this palace as a young man. Her majesty has waited years for today. I will not allow the queen to enter that room and discover even one mistake.  I understand, ma. I will personally inspect the entire room again.  Check the bathroom, balcony, study table, wardrobe, and private sitting area.

I will do it immediately and report back when everything is confirmed.  Good morning, Your Majesty.  Good morning, Beatrice. Everyone appears to have been working since dawn.  Yes, Your Majesty. We want everything ready before the royal guests begin arriving.  Is Alexander’s room completely ready?  Yes, Your Majesty.

Everything has been arranged exactly as you requested.  Did you place the old family photographs inside his sitting area?  Yes, the photograph of the prince with his majesty is on the center table. The photograph of you holding him as a baby is beside his bed.  He used to complain whenever I placed that photograph in his room.

He always insisted that he was no longer a baby. He was only 15 years old when he said that. 12 years. It has been a very long time, Your Majesty. He visited, but he never stayed for long. 1 week, 2 weeks, then he left again.   But today, Your Majesty, he is finally coming home.  Yes, I have imagined this day so many times.

I imagined him walking through those doors, smiling and complaining that nothing had changed.  He will be happy to return home, Your Majesty.  I hope so.  Is something troubling you, Your Majesty?  Alexander has never liked anyone making decisions for him.  You mean the marriage arrangement?  It is not an arrangement.

We invited the princesses so that he could meet them and choose for himself.  He may understand once everything is explained to him.  You know my son. He will say we planned his entire life before he returned.  His Majesty will explain everything to him.  That is exactly what worries me. The king and the crown prince are very similar.

Exactly. They are both stubborn and neither one knows how to leave an argument.  I heard that.  You were meant to hear it.  I am not stubborn.  Of course not.  I simply refuse to give up whenever I know that I am right.  That is exactly how stubborn people describe themselves.  You are encouraging the palace staff to laugh at me.

They already know you.  Is everything ready?  Almost. The final rooms and decorations are still being checked.  The elders will arrive before noon. The royal families will follow shortly after this.  And our son?  His plane has landed.  It has landed.  Daniel sent a message a few minutes ago.

They are already on their way.  Why did no one tell me?   I just told you.  Edward, I have been waiting since morning.  He is still more than an hour away.  An hour is not a long time.  Elizabeth, calm down.  Do not tell me to calm down.   My son is coming home after 12 years.

Our son.  Then you should understand exactly why I am worried.  I understand.  Did Daniel say anything else?  No. He only said they had left the airport.  Did Alexander speak to you?  No.  He did not speak to me either.  Perhaps he wants to surprise us.  Alexander does not like surprises.

That may be why he has decided to give us one.  I want to see him before all the royal guests arrive.  You will see him.  Alone.  Elizabeth,   we cannot send the royal families away.  I did not say we should send them away. I want a few minutes with my son before everyone begins discussing marriage and the throne.

He knows why he is returning.  You told him he was returning because the kingdom needed him.  The kingdom does need him.  You did not tell him that three princesses would be waiting inside the palace.  I told him that we would discuss his future.  That is not the same thing.

If I had told him everything over the phone, he might have delayed his return.  You should have been honest with him.  I am his father and his king. I know what is best for him.  He is 30 years old, Edward. He is not a child.  He is the crown prince.  Your majesties, the first royal convoy has entered the city.

Which kingdom?  The kingdom of Amundi. King Nicholas, Queen Margaret, and Princess Vanessa. Inform the guards. We will receive them at the main entrance. Yes, Your Majesty.  Beatrice. Your Majesty. The first royal family is arriving. Inform everyone immediately. I will inform the entire staff. And Beatrice.

Yes, Your Majesty. After the guests have settled, remind me about Grace. Grace? I thought about her last night. I have not heard from her in a very long time. Neither have I, Your Majesty. Please ask someone to find out how she is doing. I will do that.  Before anyone could say more, royal trumpets announced the arrival of the first visiting family.

Are you ready?  I am ready to welcome our guests, but I am still waiting for my son.  The first royal convoy entered the palace grounds, carrying the family of Princess Vanessa from the kingdom of Amundi.   Welcome, my brother. It is wonderful to receive you in our home again.

It is good to see you again, Edward. Your invitation brought us great joy.  Margaret, you look wonderful. The years have treated you well. So the palace of Latveria  Your Majesties, thank you for welcoming my family and me to your home.  Vanessa, it has been years. You were still at university the last time you visited.

Princess Zara arrived smiling warmly, fully aware that every eye and camera was watching. The final royal family arrived moments later from the third neighboring kingdom. Princess Isabella arrived with elegance, pride, and little interest in hiding her confidence.   What do you think?  It is too early.

It is never too early to observe people.  You have already started judging them.  I invited them because I need to know who they truly are.  Alexander is the one who must know them.  He will.  You still have not told any of them that Alexander knows nothing about this gathering.

They do not need to know.  What will you say when he arrives and sees three princesses waiting for him?  I will tell him the truth.  For once.  Elizabeth.  I am only reminding you.  Let us speak with the elders before Alexander arrives.  The royal guests had arrived, but the person at the center of every plan was still unaware of what awaited him.

Mama, please sit up slowly. You need to eat before taking your medicine. Easy, easy, Mama. Please don’t stress yourself.  I am fine, my daughter. Don’t worry too much about me.  You always say you’re fine every time you cough, but I can see you’re getting weaker.  I only say that because I don’t want you carrying all my worries on your shoulders.

Mama, I’m already worried. Hiding it from me won’t change anything. The nurse said you must eat first, even if it’s only a little.  I’m not hungry. The medicine has left a bitter taste in my mouth.  That isn’t a reason to stop eating. Just try a few spoons for my sake.  What did you prepare today?  Pap, and there’s fresh bread beside it. I know it’s your favorite.

Pap again?  Yes, Mama. Until you get stronger, this is what the doctor recommends.  You should eat the bread instead.  I’ve already eaten. Mama.  What exactly did you eat, Amaka? Tell me the truth.  I wanted you to eat first. I’ll eat after you’re done.  You always say that, but you never do.

There’s enough for both of us, Mama. Just finish yours first. You’ve been taking care of me for months. You’re beginning to forget about yourself.  I could never forget myself because taking care of you is part of who I am. You should be building your own future, not spending every day worrying about mine.

You spent your whole life building mine. Now it’s my turn to take care of you.  You’ve already done enough.  No, Mama. Not until you’re healthy again.  You’ve been fighting this battle alone for too long, and I can see how tired you are.  What did he say this time?  He gave us one more week.

After that, he wants us out of the house.  How much do we still owe him?  3 months’ rent.  I thought you paid 1 month’s rent already.  I used the money for your hospital tests. The doctor said they couldn’t wait.  You should have told me. And you would have refused because that’s the kind of mother you are.

My daughter, we need a roof over our heads just as much as I need treatment. You shouldn’t have carried this burden alone, and I couldn’t watch you get worse because we’re trying to save rent. Your life will always come first for me.  Only two tablets are left.  Then let those two finish.

Mama, please don’t say that. We’ll find another way.  What else should I say? We owe the clinic, we owe the landlord, and your job applications keep getting rejected.  Then say you’ll get better. Say we’ll overcome this together. That’s all I want to hear.  Then don’t give up.

We haven’t reached the end of our story. Bring me that brown box over there.  This one?  Right. Open it.  The old wooden box carried memories Grace had hidden away for many years.  I’ve seen this picture before.  Look underneath it.  Is this Prince Alexander?  Yes. He was only 7 years old then.  He looks so innocent.

You never showed me this photograph before.  I kept many things from my years in the palace.  You always told me you worked for Queen Elizabeth, but you never said you were this close to the royal family.  I served the Queen personally for almost 15 years.  15 years? I thought you only worked there for a short time.  I started as an ordinary palace maid.

Later her majesty chose me as her personal assistant.  Then why did you leave the palace?  I became sick. At first it was just tiredness. Then I started missing work regularly. The doctors advised me to rest, but the illness kept getting worse.  Did the Queen know what was happening to you?  She knew everything.

In fact, she refused to let me leave.  She refused?  She paid for my first treatment herself and continued sending money even after I stopped working.  Then why did you cut off contact with someone who cared about you that much?  Then Grace reached for the one thing she had protected for years, a letter she had never found the courage to deliver.

Take this letter to Queen Elizabeth and tell her Grace has finally come home.  What do you want me to do after I give it to her majesty?  I want you to ask her for work, not money.  Work for me?  Yes. Any honest work she believes you’re capable of doing.  Mama, I studied accounting. Do you really want me to work as a palace maid?  [snorts]  My daughter, no honest work is ever beneath anyone.

Right now, survival is more important than pride.  I know we don’t have the luxury of choosing anymore.  Exactly. You said those same words yourself a few minutes ago.  I’m not ashamed of honest work. I just don’t want anyone to think I’m using your relationship with the queen.  You won’t be asking for charity. You’ll be asking for an opportunity to work.

The queen once told me that if my family ever needed help, the palace doors would always remain open.  That promise was made years ago, Mama. People change.  Queen Elizabeth doesn’t forget people who have been faithful to her.  When should I go?  Today.  [sighs]  What about you? I don’t like leaving you alone for too long.

Ask Mama Chinyere to check on me. I’ll be fine for a few hours.  I still don’t feel comfortable leaving you.  Listen to me, my daughter. You’ve carried this family alone for months. Let someone else open a door for you.  All right, I’ll go. Thank you. Don’t thank me yet. I’m only going there to ask for work, not to marry the prince.

[laughter]  Cough, cough. You’ve always known how to make me laugh. See, that’s exactly why you should stop laughing and start eating.  Fine, but before I leave, you’re finishing at least half of this food.  Half? You’re becoming stricter than I ever was.  I learned from the best teacher.  For the first time that morning, Grace began eating willingly.

Unaware that the decision she had just made would change both their lives forever. Neither mother nor daughter knew that destiny had already begun pulling them back toward the palace. And toward the crown prince whose life was about to collide with theirs.  Thank you all for coming. Today is important to my family and to this kingdom.

My son returns after many years abroad. He left as a young man and returns as a man who has built his own life and earned respect outside this palace.  We are pleased to be here. Our kingdoms have shared friendship for many years,   and we believe this gathering will strengthen that friendship.

Indeed.  Princess Vanessa, Princess Zara, Princess Isabella, you have been invited here as honored guests.   You are not prisoners, and you are not here to perform for us every minute of the day. My son will meet each of you, spend time with you, and get to know you. At the end of it all, he alone will make his decision.

Your Majesty, may I ask a question? Will there be any formal process?  There will be different activities.  What kind of activities, Your Majesty?  Nothing unreasonable. Will we know about each activity before it begins?  Sometimes you will, and sometimes you won’t. A future queen must know how to respond when plans change.

She must know how to handle pressure,   people, and responsibility.  The activities won’t be limited to cooking. They may involve hosting guests, organizing palace events, solving unexpected problems, or working with members of the palace staff.  That sounds fair.  I agree, Your Majesty. I understand.

Alexander will not insult our guests. He is respectful, and he will meet every one of you. We know him. He has always been a respectful young man. Even as a boy, he carried himself with maturity.  Your Majesty.  What is it?  The Crown Prince’s convoy has just passed the central bridge. They should arrive within the next 30 minutes.

Inform the guards and the palace band. Everything must be ready before the convoy arrives.  Yes, Your Majesty.  We’ll continue this discussion later. For now,  The meeting came to an end as the royal families prepared to welcome the future king.  Are you ready for this? There’s no turning back.  You’ve been You’re quiet since we left the airport.

What are you thinking about? I haven’t stayed in the palace for this long in years. Visiting is one thing, coming home is completely different. The palace hasn’t changed much. It’ll still feel like home. That’s exactly what worries me. My father has probably planned everything already. He’s the king.

Planning is practically part of his job. He said we needed to discuss my future. Coming from my father, that usually means one thing. And what exactly do you think that one thing is? Marriage. Daniel, you know something. I know plenty of things. Don’t play with me. Your father invited three royal families, and yes, they all came with their daughters.

I knew it. Don’t get angry. I’m not angry. I’m disappointed. He could have trusted me enough to tell me himself. Maybe he believed you wouldn’t return if he told you everything. That isn’t the point. It may have been his point. Do my parents really believe they can place three women in front of me and expect me to choose one? They’re princesses.

That changes nothing. A royal title doesn’t tell me who a person truly is. That’s probably why they’ll all be staying at the palace. How long have you known about this? About 2 weeks. And you never said a single word. Your father asked me not to tell you. You’re my friend. And he’s my king.

That’s a very weak excuse. I just need a moment. You asked me to help you keep your own secret, yet you’re angry because I kept one from you. My plan doesn’t involve arranging your marriage. No, it only involves making your parents believe you can no longer walk. We’ve already discussed this. We discussed it back in your apartment.

It sounded very different there. Nothing has changed. Everything has changed. We’re less than 30 minutes away from the palace.  A folded wheelchair rested quietly behind them, hidden beneath a dark cover. This is your last chance to stop.  I’m not stopping.  Your mother is going to cry.  I know.  Your father may summon every specialist in the country.

The medical reports are ready.  Fake medical reports.  Convincing medical reports.  You paid a doctor to write that you suffered nerve damage after an accident.  He never wrote that I’d never recover. He only stated that I currently have limited movement.  You’re using careful words to describe a lie.

I know exactly what I’m doing.  Do you? Because you didn’t even know three princesses were already waiting for you.  That only makes my plan even more necessary.  Why?  Because they arrived expecting a healthy crown prince.  And a wealthy one.  They’re wealthy, too.  I want to know whether they’ll still respect me when they believe I’ve become weak.

But you’re not weak.  They’ll believe I am.  And what exactly will that prove?  It’ll reveal who they truly are when life is no longer perfect.  I still I’ve spent too many years watching people change the moment they discover who I really am.  Not everyone is pretending, Alexander.

[music]  Most people are. While I was studying abroad, no one cared who I was until they discovered my surname.  So, now you want to deceive everyone  for a short time.  And how long is a short time?  A king must know who truly stands beside him.   I can’t discover that if everyone believes life around me is perfect.

You don’t have to pretend you can’t walk to learn that.  No, I don’t believe I can learn it any other way because people are at their best when they want something. I need to see who they’ll become when they believe the future they imagined has suddenly changed. And if one of them is genuinely good, then I’ll know.

Because I need the truth. A truth that’s built on a lie. Sometimes people reveal who they really are only when they believe no one is watching.  [laughter]  There you are. I was beginning to think you’d forgotten how to smile. I haven’t. One more thing. What is it? Don’t overdo the act. You’re still Alexander.

Don’t suddenly start behaving like a helpless man, and don’t stare at everyone as if you’re studying them.  Wow, it’s magnificent.  Good afternoon.  Good afternoon, sir.  Can we help you?  Yes, please. I’d like to see Mrs. Beatrice.  Do you have an appointment?  No, sir.  Then I’m afraid you can’t enter the palace.

Please, I only came to deliver this letter.  You can leave it with us.  I’m sorry, sir. My mother specifically asked me to hand it to Mrs. Beatrice herself.  Who asked you to do that?  Grace Nuosu.  We don’t know her.  She worked here many years ago. My mother was Queen Elizabeth’s personal assistant.

The Queen’s personal assistant?  Yes, sir.  Please wait here.  You said your mother is Grace Nuosu?  Yes, ma.  Grace, who worked directly with Queen Elizabeth?  Yes, ma.  You look so much like your mother.  People tell me that often.  How is Grace?  She’s not well.  What happened to her?  She’s been sick for several years, Mom.

Her condition became worse recently.  Why didn’t anyone tell us?  My mother didn’t want anyone to know.  That sounds exactly like Grace.  She asked me to give you this.  The envelope was addressed to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth. This is meant for Her Majesty.  Yes, Ma.  Come with me. Welcome to the Royal Palace.

Thank you. It’s magnificent.  I remember when Grace was pregnant with you.  You do, Your Majesty?  I do. Please, sit down.  Thank you, Your Majesty.  How is your mother? Tell me the truth.  She’s very sick, Your Majesty.  For how long?  For many years. It became worse recently.

What illness does she have?  The doctor said she has a serious heart condition and problems with her lungs.  Why didn’t anyone tell me?  I didn’t know, Your Majesty. Grace stopped answering my calls. I even sent people to her old address, but she’d already moved.  She didn’t want to trouble you.

Trouble me? Your mother served me faithfully for 15 years. She wasn’t just an employee. Grace is asking me to give you work.  Yes, Your Majesty.  She also apologized for leaving without saying goodbye. Have you been working?  I had a temporary job at a small office, but the company closed 3 months ago.

What did you study?  Accounting, Your Majesty.  How have you been paying for her treatment? Amaka.  We haven’t been paying properly. We still owe the clinic, and her medicine will finish today.  And Grace still waited until now to contact me.  She didn’t want to ask you for money, but she still needs help.

She wants me to work.  Beatrice, arrange for the royal doctor to visit Grace today.  My mother said we shouldn’t ask for charity.  This isn’t charity. But  Your mother cared for me when I was sick. She stayed awake with me after Alexander was born. She protected my privacy and stood beside me during some of the most difficult years of my life.

Allow me to stand beside her now.  Thank you, Your Majesty.  The doctor will examine her first, then we’ll decide what treatment she needs.  Thank you.  Do we have room for another junior member of staff?  Yes, Your Majesty. Two junior maids left last month.  Good. You may begin working here.

Thank you, Your Majesty.   Mother, father. Alexander.  What happened to you?  Mother, please stand up.   I’ll explain everything once we’re inside.  Don’t ask me to stand. Tell me what happened. Why didn’t you tell us?  I didn’t want both of you worrying before I got home.

Do you   Do you feel this at all? A little?   What happened?  Daniel, what happened to him?  There was a road accident.  When did it happen?  3 months ago, your majesty.  3 months and no one informed me?  The prince asked us not to. He wanted to explain everything himself.

You should have called me.  Father, don’t blame Daniel.   It was my decision.  Your decision? You were injured and you decided your parents didn’t deserve to know?   I knew both of you would panic.  We’re your parents, Alexander. We had every right to panic.  I know. I’m sorry.

Can you walk at all?  Not properly.  What do the doctors say?  They said there’s nerve damage, but they aren’t certain whether it’s permanent.  Our royal doctors will examine you immediately. I don’t care what reports  reports you brought with you.  All right.  Where are the medical reports?  They’re inside the prince’s luggage, your majesty.

Bring every document to my study.  Yes, your majesty.   The welcome ceremony is over. Please return inside and give my family some privacy.  Let’s go inside.  All right. I’ll take him. You should have told me. I know. Don’t say you know, because if you truly understood, you would never have kept something like this from us.

Father.  Not here.  Alexander, tell me exactly what happened. Please don’t hide anything from me anymore.   It happened 3 months ago. I attended a business meeting outside the city, and while we were driving back, another vehicle suddenly lost control, crossed into our lane, and crashed into us.

I was taken to a private hospital, where I remained for several weeks. After many examinations, the doctors told me the accident had damaged the nerves in my lower back and legs.  Several weeks? Several weeks you’re telling me?  I did call you. But I told you I was busy, because I didn’t want you to hear fear in my voice.

You should have let me hear that fear. I am your mother, Alexander. I should have been there with you.  I know, and I am truly sorry.  You keep saying you know, Alexander,   but everything you did made it seem as though your father and I did not matter to you.  That decision was never yours to make alone.

Whether you liked it or not, we had every right to know. It was my body, my condition, and I thought I needed time before involving everyone.  You are not just any man, Alexander. You are my son and the crown prince. Whatever happens to your health affects this family and the entire kingdom. That was exactly why I wanted time. I didn’t want panic to spread before anyone understood my condition.

You knew everything from the beginning, Daniel. You visited him in that hospital and watched my son go through all of this without saying a single word to me.  Yes, Your Majesty. I visited him and he asked me not to tell anyone until he was ready.  So, he asked you to remain silent and you chose to obey him instead of informing his parents.

I believed he needed time to understand everything first. I thought I was protecting him.  You carried all this pain by yourself, my son. Every painful night, every difficult day, and I wasn’t there beside you.  I wasn’t completely alone, Mother. Daniel stayed with me through everything.  Daniel, I’m still upset that you kept this from us, but thank you for standing beside my son when he needed someone the most.

Your Majesty, I could never abandon His Highness. No matter what happens, I will always stand by him.  What treatment have you been receiving since the accident? Physiotherapy, medication, and regular medical examinations. That has been my routine since the accident. And why did you stop the treatment before returning home?  I didn’t stop, Father.

Everything was arranged for my treatment to continue here in the palace.  Who made those arrangements?   The specialist abroad worked together with one of the doctors here. The details are inside the report.   The doctor’s name? Dr. Adebayo.  You are 30 years old, Alexander. The Royal Council keeps asking questions and the people are waiting for the day their future king settles down and builds a family.

My responsibility as Crown Prince has nothing to do with rushing into marriage. Leadership and marriage are not the same thing.  You frightened me, Alexander, more than you could ever imagine.  I’m truly sorry, Mother. Hurting you was never my intention.  Then promise me something. Never hide anything this important from me again.

I’ll try my best not to.  No, Alexander. That’s not the answer I asked for. I don’t want I’ll try, I want your promise.  I promise, Mother. From today onward, I won’t keep something like this from you again.  Your Majesty, the royal doctor has arrived with his medical assistants. We’re going to find out exactly what’s wrong, and together, we’ll do everything possible to help you recover.

Your Majesty.  Doctor, please come in. Nobody told us anything about the prince’s condition. His parents did not know either. They were just as shocked as we were. That does not make the situation any better. I want the complete truth before I decide anything. What truth are you looking for? And pretending you have no questions does not make you better than Vanessa or me.

I am not pretending. You smiled at him outside as though nothing had changed. Did either of you notice the way Alexander looked at us? What do you mean? He was observing all three of us.  Your Highnesses, your mothers are waiting for you. We were waiting to hear how the prince is doing. The royal doctor is still examining him.

At this moment, he is a son receiving medical attention. The marriage process can wait.  I still cannot believe what happened today.  What exactly can you not believe?  The The prince.  Do not behave as though you did not see what everyone else saw.  Keep your voices down before someone hears you.

Nobody is here.  Do not behave as though you did not see. Keep your voices down. Nobody is here. That is what people always say before Mrs. Beatrice suddenly appears. For years, people described the Crown Prince as though he were the most perfect man in the world. He is still very handsome. Mrs. Beatrice.

I can see that all three of you have already completed your duties. Or perhaps these trays cleaned themselves while you discussed private matters concerning the royal family. We are sorry, ma. What exactly are you sorry for? Everything about his condition, his chances of recovery, whether the king still expects one of us to marry him, and whether the throne remains his.

His medical condition should not take away his position as Crown Prince. I never said that it should. For talking while we were supposed to be working. You are allowed to speak while working. Just focus on the task at hand. You are not allowed to gossip about private and painful matters involving the royal family.

We did not mean to cause any harm. People often say that after the harm has already been caused. You are the senior maid here, Helen. You should have known better than to allow this conversation to continue. I tried several times to stop them. She warned us many times. And both of you ignored every warning. The prince’s medical condition is not entertainment.

The queen is heartbroken, the king is worried, and the royal family is dealing with something painful. We understand now, ma. You will supervise Rita and Joy until every assigned task is complete. Yes, ma. Rita, this punishment is your fault. Everything is in order.  Yes, ma’am.  Let us proceed.  Of course, ma’am.   Your majesty, Amaka is here.

Amaka.  Your majesty.  Please come closer.  I am sorry. I asked you to wait and then everything suddenly changed.  You do not need to apologize, your majesty.  You arrived at the palace on a very difficult day. Beatrice has already given you a uniform. She insisted that she was ready to begin work today.

You did not need to start immediately.  I came here looking for work. I did not want to remain idle while everyone else was busy.  That sounds exactly like your mother. She always says there is no dignity in avoiding honest work.  When I first met your mother, she was younger than you are now.

She told me she began working here as a junior maid.  Yes,   and she was very stubborn. I should have found her sooner.  It was not your fault, your majesty.   I knew she was unwell before she left. I continued sending help for some time, but she eventually stopped responding. She was ashamed of her condition.

There was nothing for her to be ashamed of.  I told her the same thing many times.  Grace has always found it easier to help other people than to accept help herself.  That is true.  The royal doctor left for your home before Alexander arrived.  He has already gone to see her.  Yes,   he will examine her and report directly to me.

Thank you, Your Majesty.   You have already done more than we expected.  Beatrice has worked in this palace for many years. She may appear strict, but she is fair.  Your Majesty, you are making me sound gentle.   You are gentle. Your position will be assistant household maid.

What will my duties involve, Your Majesty?  Beatrice will explain everything, but your work will not be limited to one room. You will assist the household department wherever you are needed. Some days you will help in the royal kitchen, prepare dining rooms, arrange flowers, assist in guest rooms, deliver meals, carry messages, or help during palace events.

Will I also be cooking?  Only when Chef Maria asks you to assist.  I can cook very well.  Many people live and work here. Some are kind, while others can be difficult. Some will respect you because you work hard. Others may dislike you simply because I knew your mother.  Your Majesty, the royal doctor has completed his first examination of the Crown Prince.

What did he say?  He would like to speak with you and His Majesty privately.  Tell the doctor to wait for us in the family study.  Yes, Your Majesty.  I am sorry, Amaka.  Thank you all for remaining. I know everyone is concerned about my son and why our families have gathered here. We could not leave without knowing how Alexander is doing.

The doctors confirmed nerve damage. Recovery is possible, but they offered no guarantees. Your family deserves time to deal with this privately. But we must also discuss what this means for the marriage arrangement. Speak openly. I believe the marriage process should be postponed until Alexander settles into treatment. Postponed, not canceled.

No one should make life-changing decisions in today’s circumstances.  Are you questioning my son’s ability to choose a wife?  No. I am saying the situation has changed, and our daughters deserve honesty. My son’s legs were injured. His judgement, courage and character remain untouched.

A throne is not won by walking. It is held by wisdom and leadership. Wisdom, yes, but honesty must guide us. Then perhaps every princess should be free to decide whether she wishes to continue. And the crown prince should be given that same freedom. They will all choose freely. No one will be forced to stay. Did Alexander even know our daughters were coming? He knows now. Before today, he did not.

Then let tomorrow be for private family discussions. After that, each person can decide honestly. Agreed. Those who remain will continue the process. Those who leave will do so without offense. I will prepare a public statement confirming the prince accident and return for treatment. The marriage arrangement will remain private.

One more thing, no one in this palace will treat my son as though his life has ended. There will be no pity, no rumors and no questioning of his future. The doctor wishes to speak with both of us immediately. Speak honestly with your daughters.   Whatever they decide, let it be their own choice. What have we done? Daniel.

Your majesty. Were you trying to avoid me? I didn’t want to disturb you. You’ve already seen me cry. Tell me, did my son truly go through all of this without us? I stayed with him as much as I could. Did he ever ask for me? Yes, he did. Then why didn’t you call me? He begged me not to. I believed I was protecting him.

And who protected me from seeing my son like that without warning? I trusted you with him.  I know, and I’m sorry.  Daniel, you’re still hiding something from me.  No, Your Majesty.  I’ve known you since you were a boy. I know when your eyes carry a secret.  I only wish I had called you sooner.  Tell me honestly, should this marriage gathering continue?  Alexander needs time, and no one should pressure him.

I watched the princesses today. Their faces told stories they never spoke.  Shock doesn’t always reveal a person’s heart.  I don’t want anyone pretending to love my son because they want a crown. Neither does Alexander. Then perhaps this tragedy will reveal the truth. If there’s anything else I need to know, tell me before I discover it myself.

There is nothing else. There is still time to stop this, but will he listen?  Stop pacing around the room. If you cannot control your thoughts, at least control your expression.  Mother, nobody told us the Crown Prince was in a wheelchair.  His parents did not know either. This shocked them more than it shocked us.

I came expecting a healthy man, not this.  Be careful, Vanessa. Honesty without compassion easily becomes cruelty.  I am not cruel. I just don’t know what to think anymore.  Then think about Alexander before you think about the throne.  What if he never walks again? Do you still believe he’ll become king?  King Edward will never remove his son because of this.

A king is measured by wisdoms, not by his legs.  I need time before I decide anything.  Take all the time you need. But if you leave, leave honestly. Do not pretend to care simply to wear a crown. I will stay for now. You have been unusually quiet. Tell me what is on your mind. I cannot stop thinking about the queen.

She looked completely broken. She was not looking at a crown prince. She was looking at her injured son. I was shocked, too, but I felt sorry for him more than anything else. Never let another person’s suffering become your inconvenience. I do not know whether I could marry him, but I cannot judge him before knowing him.

That is the only fair decision. I simply want to hear his own story. Then wait until he is ready to tell it. I will. You questioned the head maid as though she owed you private medical information. I only wanted the truth. We deserve to know what we walked into. You deserve respect first.

Questions can I came expecting a husband who could lead a kingdom. And have you decided that a wheelchair makes leadership impossible? No, but it changes everything. It changes many things. It does not change his humanity. If his condition is permanent, I need to know before making any decision. Then stay long enough to learn the truth.

If you leave, leave with dignity, not cruelty. I will remain until I know more. Dinner will be served in 1 hour, Your Majesties. If the prince attends dinner, remember everyone will be watching how you treat him. You have been staring at that plate for 5 minutes. Eat. I am trying, Ma. I just keep thinking about my mother.

The royal doctor is with Grace now. Worrying will not help her. I wish I could see her or at least hear her voice.  You will call her before you leave the palace today. First, finish your meal.  My mother always said nobody wins an argument with hunger.  Grace said many sensible things. She simply refused to follow some of them herself.

Were both of you very close?  We argued often, laughed often, and trusted other completely.  She never told me she had a friend here.  She left because she was ashamed of her illness. Not because she stopped caring about this palace. Good. Your real first day begins now. I will show you the palace and teach you how things are done here.

I am ready, ma.  Grace’s daughter has finally arrived.  Yes, ma. It is an honor to meet you.  Mrs. Beatrice tells me you can cook. Can you prepare food for 200 guests without making mistakes?  No, ma. I still have a lot to learn.  Until I approve otherwise, you will assist with preparation and service.

Never touch a finished royal meal without permission. And if Fast hands, good. Bring her back tomorrow. We will see whether she is as hardworking as her mother. This palace runs on discipline. Beauty is admired, but order is expected. It is more beau-  The prince looked so happy.  He still deserves that happiness.

Never judge anyone by the worst day of their life. The visiting kings and princesses are our guests. Be respectful. Speak only when necessary with them.  And if they ask me questions about the royal family?  You know nothing. Staff members who gossip never remain here for long.  Mrs. Beatrice, who is she?  Her name is Amaka, Your Highness.

She joined the household staff today. Welcome home, Your Highness.  I pray you recover quickly. Thank you. You took longer than I expected. What did my father ask you?  Everything. The hospital, doctors, the treatment, and he believed none of it completely.  And my mother?  She found me alone in the garden and asked me to tell her the truth.

What did you tell her?  I lied again, but watching her cry made every word feel heavier.  I never wanted to hurt them.  But you already have. She blamed herself for everything, and I stood there helping you deceive her.  We agreed this was necessary. I agreed before I saw your mother today. No.  Why are you still holding on to this?  Because today was only the beginning.

I have already seen how people truly reacted.  You judged everyone within minutes.  I observed them. Some saw a man, others saw only a wheelchair. And while you’re testing everyone else’s honesty, you’re building everything on deception.  If I reveal the truth now, every kind word, every decision will be an act.

You are so afraid of people pretending that you’ve created the biggest performance of all. Give me a real deadline. I cannot keep lying to your parents forever.  Two weeks. After 2 weeks, this ends. Promise me.  I promise. I stayed because you’re my brother. Not because I believe this plan is right. Don’t make me regret it.

Because it has only just begun.  You look terrible. Did you sleep at all?  A few hours. I needed to memorize every detail before Dr. Samuel returns.  You already know the report.   You created most of it.  Keep your voice down. Closed doors do not make palace walls deaf.  Dr.

Samuel wants to supervise your treatment personally.  Then I will prepare every day and control whatever movement he tests. I made the story convincing. That does not mean more people are being involved every day.  Your mother did not sleep. Your father is investigating   and the doctor wants daily access to you. This is no longer under control.

Dr. Samuel is waiting in the family study. He wants to discuss daily physiotherapy and your royal  I will accept treatment, but I will also confirm that my spine was not injured.  We will hear the doctor first. Recovery and responsibility must work together.  Will the three princesses attend breakfast?  Yes.

Their parents have given them the freedom to remain or leave.  Good. Anyone who wants to leave should do so freely.  You two are still hiding something from me.  We have known each other since childhood. Sometimes Daniel and I understand the same joke without explaining it.  You do not need to prove anything to anyone today.

Tell me if the pain becomes worse.  I promise. How is Alexander?  He is pretending everything is normal, but he barely slept.  That sounds like Alexander. What else is troubling you?  Our son is in a wheelchair. The press is outside. Three princesses are waiting and Daniel looks guilty whenever I question him.  Daniel feels guilty because they hid the accident from us.

I believe there is more. Did you believe everything he told you?  No. Hospital records and press silence were all controlled too carefully.  Are you saying the accident never happened?  No. I am saying Daniel could not have hidden everything alone.  Should we confront Alexander?  Not yet. Dr. Samuel is checking the records.

We will wait for facts.  Then tomorrow morning they will organize a formal breakfast for selected elders and council members.  With less than one day to prepare?  Exactly. Royal responsibility rarely arrives with convenient notice.  What will they handle?  The menu, seating, staff coordination, hospitality, timing, and one item prepared with Chef Maria.

You expect them to work together after yesterday’s tension. Vanessa will try to control everything. Zara will try to keep the peace.  We need to see patience, cooperation, leadership, and how they treat the staff. Zara will manage hospitality and food presentation.  You gave each of them the responsibility most likely to expose her weakness.

You did not sleep either.  A test should reveal character, not merely reward confidence. The palace cannot stop living because we are afraid. Alexander does not want to be treated as though his life has ended.  Then the breakfast will happen.  There should also be one unexpected mistake, a spilled drink, a wrong arrangement, or an unplanned request.

To see how they react under pressure.  Yes.  Nothing dangerous and only Mrs. Beatrice should know.  She can use a junior maid.  Not a marker. She is new and I will not allow an innocent girl to become part of palace suspicion.  Then Beatrice will choose someone else.  Alexander should attend tomorrow, but he must not be pressured to judge them immediately.

Ask the three princesses and their mothers to meet us in the reception room in 30 minutes.  And ask Mrs. Beatrice to come here first. Yes, your majesties.  Yesterday changed the circumstances under which all of you came to this palace.  You have each been given the freedom to remain or return home without offense.

Have any of you decided to leave?  No, your majesty. I have chosen to remain. I would also like to remain and understand Prince Alexander for myself. I will remain for now   until I understand the full situation.  That is honest. A respectful decision will never offend this family.  Since all three of you have chosen to stay, the palace assessment will begin today.

Tomorrow morning, the palace will host a formal breakfast for selected elders, council members, and visiting dignitaries. 36 guests are confirmed, although the number may increase.  And the three of us are expected to organize it?  Yes, your highness. The queen has requested it.  I see. We have much to prepare.

Princess Vanessa will manage the guest list and seating arrangement. Princess Zara will manage hospitality, menu presentation, and communication with the royal kitchen. Princess Isabella will coordinate the staff, service timing, and communication between the kitchen and dining hall.  Why was I given staff coordination?  Because it requires clear instructions, discipline, and patience.

I possess all three. There is one more requirement. Each of you will help prepare one breakfast item with Chef Maria. You mean we are expected to cook?  Yes. We will observe how you make decisions, handle disagreement,   and treat the people working under you.  You do not need to appear perfect.

We are more interested in what happens when something goes wrong.  Take them to the household office.   The assessment begins now.  Yes, your majesty. Amaka will carry confirmed instructions between this office, the kitchen, and the dining hall. The new maid. Yes, your highness. Good afternoon, Amaka.

Good afternoon, your highness. This contains the guest list, dietary restrictions, seating rules, available staff, and tomorrow’s timetable. Thank you, Mrs. Beatrice. I will begin the seating arrangement. We should agree on the general plan first. Seating affects timing and service. Vanessa can begin the seating while we agree on the breakfast flow.

Before any arrangement matters, the kitchen needs a final menu. We were only given the assignment moments ago. And the kitchen still needs time. You choose the menu. I will tell you what is possible. We can combine light continental food with familiar traditional options. I do not want the table looking ordinary. It is a formal breakfast, not a royal wedding.

You will report to the royal kitchen at 4:00 and remain until the work is finished. Now settle the seating arrangement. The king, queen, crown prince, and senior guests will sit at the head table. The three princesses should join them. Take this to Chef Maria’s assistant, then collect the floral inventory from the banquet office. Yes, Mrs. Beatrice.

Tell the kitchen I also want imported berries for the fruit display. We did not agree on imported berries. It will elevate the presentation, Isabella. We  Daniel, stop for a moment. Why? I want to hear what is happening. My father asked me to choose one of them. I should understand who they are. A few minutes of disagreement cannot tell you who someone truly is.

The new maid again.  The test has only just begun. And in a few hours your own test begins with the physiotherapist. I’ll handle it.  [cheering]  Your Majesty.  No, lie back. Don’t strain yourself. I never expected you to come after all these years. The question is, why did you disappear without telling me where you went?  I was ashamed.

I couldn’t work anymore and I didn’t want to become a burden.  You were never a burden. You gave this palace 15 years of your life. Every month that passed made it harder to return.  Until I didn’t know how anymore.   Some people make saying sorry much harder than doing it. Amaka is doing well.

She has already started work and she reminds me so much of you. Please, don’t favor her because she’s my daughter. Let her earn her place. She will be judged by her work just as you always wanted. The Royal Hospital will continue your treatment. This time you won’t face it alone.  Thank you, Elizabeth.

She’s all right now.  You are 3 minutes late. In this kitchen, late is late. Today you will prepare the bean cakes yourselves.  Yes, Chef Emeria. I’ll measure the mixture.  Fine, I’ll blend it.  I’ll assist.  Good. Begin.  Why was I given the messiest work? Amaka, bring me gloves.  You may wear gloves, but you must still feel the texture.

Cooking requires your hands, not excuses. You look exhausted, Daniel. How is Alexander?  He is resting before his treatment.  He barely speaks to us. You know him better than anyone. What kind of woman does he respect?  You should discover that by speaking to him yourself.  This is a competition, Daniel.

I need to understand the man who is expected to choose.  You are not trying to understand him. You are trying to influence him. Alexander respects one thing above all else, genuineness.  Do you think he noticed my reaction when he arrived yesterday?  He notices almost everything. Don’t waste time trying to erase one moment.

Show him who you truly are.  Do you believe he will recover?  The doctors are hopeful, but no one can promise that.  You know more than everyone else. You’re hiding something.  Everyone seems determined to believe that. Good evening, Your Highness.  Helping the right woman reach Alexander may be the best thing you ever do for him.

The right woman will never need secret help.  Chef Maria, is everything in order?  Yes, Mrs. Beatrice. The service is ready.  Excellent. I will inspect the table. Team, final checks. Let’s be precise. The first food trays should already be here.  They’ll arrive when they’re ready, not before.

Did you remember Elder Joseph’s special chair?  I almost missed it.  This way, please, to your seats.  Thank you, my dear.  Right here, sir. Let me assist you.  Thank you.  Your highness.  We greet you.  Welcome, your highness. I hope you’re feeling better today.  A little better.

Thank you. You organized all this?  We worked together.  It looks impressive.  Your water, your highness. Sorry.  What have you done?  I I’m so sorry, your highness. It was an accident.  Sorry? Look at my dress. Do you know how expensive this gown is?  Vanessa, please.

It was clearly an accident.  Don’t tell me to calm down. She ruined everything. This is a disaster.  We can fix this. It’s all right.  She should be punished for this.  Mrs. Beatrice will decide that, your highness.  When did I ask for your opinion?  No, your highness. Everyone [singing] is watching, your highness.

[singing]  I overreacted.   It was an accident. You’re forgiven. Please accept our apologies for the interruption. Breakfast will continue. It’s over now. Stay calm and finish your work. Thank you. I thought I had ruined everything. You didn’t. Just keep doing your best. Alexander, chin up.

Ah, it’s caught.  Prince Alexander, are you all right? Let me help you with that. Your Highness, the carpet is holding the wheel. May I move it?  Thank you. Is Rita all right after what happened?  She’s fine now, Your Highness. It was an accident, and sometimes our reaction says more than the mistake itself.

You answer questions very honestly.  Only when I’m asked, Your Highness.  Thank you for helping him. You were watching her again. Perhaps I was. She simply answered my question honestly. And that’s exactly what caught your attention. Honest people are becoming difficult to find. So, that’s all it is? Push me to the study.

We still have work to do. Vanessa failed the first test. It wasn’t the accident that concerned me, it was her first reaction.  She made a mistake, Edward, but she corrected herself.  Only after she realized everyone was watching. True character appears before consequences. Mrs.

Beatrice, what did you observe?  Princess Vanessa lost control, Princess Zara restored calm, Princess Isabella restored order, and Rita was deeply shaken. Give Rita the rest of the day to recover.  There was someone else who impressed me, Amaka.  She comforted Rita quietly without seeking attention. Her kindness came naturally. A true mark of character.

And Alexander noticed her more than once.  They only exchanged a few words. Let’s not read too much into it.  Perhaps, but I prefer to observe rather than assume.  Shall I begin preparing the second assessment?  Yes, make it more difficult.  You’ve barely spoken to me since breakfast. I was angry.

Rita stained your gown, but you stained your own character. I apologized. Only after you realized Alexander was watching. A future queen must control herself before anyone is looking. Everyone defended the maid, even Amaka. Because she spoke with respect. Learn from that. If you truly regret today, apologize to Rita properly.

Do you think Alexander has already judged me? He noticed your reaction, but people can change. Stop competing with Zara and become the woman you claim to be. Mother, do you still believe in me? I believe you can become better. The choice is yours. I need to speak with you. Alone.  What are you trying to do? Something’s wrong.

Princess Vanessa sent me a message. She wants to meet me alone. Interesting. I haven’t replied. You think she’s looking for information? Maybe, or she’s testing you. For now, we wait. Let me see the messages again. She chose those words carefully. She asked to meet me, not you. I don’t like what that suggests.

She wants access to the person who knows me best. Either she wants information or she suspects something. This plan is becoming dangerous. Your parents are suspicious, doctors are watching you, and now one princess is arranging secret meetings.   I’ve met too many women who wanted the crown prince without knowing Alexander.

When I marry, I need to know the woman beside me chose the man before she chose the throne. I understand that. But what if this deception destroys your family’s trust before you find her? When Vanessa first saw me, what did you notice? Shock, then disappointment. She recovered quickly, but she looked like someone whose plans had changed.

Now she wants to understand me through you. Or manipulate you. Worse, she may already believe I’m hiding something. Reply to her. Meet her and find out exactly what she knows. Secret meetings inside this palace are dangerous. What am I allowed to tell her? Only what everyone already knows.   Nothing about the accident, treatment, recovery, or whether I’ll walk again.

So I’m meeting her to answer nothing. Exactly. She specifically doesn’t want you to know. She’s already playing. Then tomorrow, we discover why.  I still can’t stop thinking about yesterday. You made a mistake, Rita. Don’t let one moment define you. Yesterday I reacted badly. I spoke to you in a way you didn’t deserve.

Princess, I don’t understand.  Money cannot always repair what words have broken.  Rita, I’m truly sorry. Please forgive me.  I forgave you yesterday, Your Highness.  I should have known I’d find you here. You always escape to quiet places. Peace makes it easier to think and harder to pretend.

I watched Vanessa apologize this morning. Did you? What did she say?   She seems sincere, but it’s complicated. What did you think? Her second apology felt real.   The first one didn’t. Sometimes people need someone to show them where they went wrong. Were you discussing the weather   or me? We were discussing your apology.

And what conclusion did you reach? I wasn’t sure if you were truly sorry or simply doing what your mother expected. None of us can judge another person’s heart after one mistake. Easy for everyone to say. Since we arrived, people only seem to notice how perfect Princess Zara is.

I never came here to compete with either of you. Then stop competing with each other and focus on why we’re really here.  Your Highnesses, Mrs. Beatrice requests your presence in the royal medical wing immediately. His Majesty has moved today’s assessment forward.  Thank you for coming. Today isn’t about competition, it’s about understanding responsibility.

Your Majesty, is someone unwell? No. I simply want you to witness what caring for another person truly means.  See, may I introduce Dr. Naomi Okafor, Prince Alexander’s new physiotherapist.  A wife must remain strong, not only during celebrations, but also when life becomes difficult. Today, I want you to observe, not perform.

Yes, Your Majesty.  Today’s session is simple, Your Highness. I only want to understand your current condition.  I appreciate that, doctor.  Good. Let’s begin.  [sighs]  Alexander, are you all right?  Mother, my leg.  It’s all right, Your Majesty. Let me examine him.

Where exactly did you feel the pain?  Just above my knee, it shot upward.  Muscle spasms like this can happen during rehabilitation. There’s no immediate cause for alarm.  So, nothing serious?  Not from what I’ve seen today, Your Majesty. That’s enough for today. We’ll continue at the next session.   Thank you, Doctor.

Doctor, something about His Highness’s muscle responses doesn’t match the reports I reviewed.  You think his recovery is progressing faster than expected?  Perhaps, or there’s something the reports aren’t telling us. I’ll be watching him very carefully during our next session.  You’ve been unusually quiet.

Tell me what’s on your mind. We almost lost everything in there. I know. When your leg moved, I thought the secret was over. It was a reflex. I wasn’t expecting that test. That’s the problem. Specialists notice the smallest details. This is no longer just about testing the princesses. You’re deceiving your parents and doctors who genuinely want to help you.

I’m not judging you, Alex. I’m worried. The hardest moment wasn’t the reflex. It was seeing fear in my mother’s eyes. Then end this before someone else gets hurt. If I stop now, I’ll never know who would have chosen me instead of my crown.  Good afternoon, Your Highness. Good afternoon, Sir Daniel.   Good afternoon, Amaka.

May I have some water? Thank you.  Amara held [singing] her  I hope today’s therapy wasn’t too difficult.  It was more demanding than I expected.  I pray tomorrow becomes a little easier than today.  Thank you, Amaka.  I should return these before Mrs. Beatrice comes looking for me.  That would be a wise decision.

You watched her leave.  So did you. I’ve known you for years, Alex, and you’ve never looked at the princesses the way you just looked at Amaka.  Why do you look as though you’re about to be punished?  Whenever someone says, “Come to my office,” my heart immediately starts searching for the mistake I made.