The carriage ride

Tears flow freely down my cheeks as I climb into the carriage, the weight of my fate pressing heavily on my chest. I force a laugh, a hollow sound that echoes in the confined space. How much did he pay for me? Five hundred silver? That’s what I’m worth? A paltry sum for a life? I wipe my eyes with the back of my hand, trying to regain some semblance of composure, but it’s futile.

The carriage jolts as it starts to move, and I lean against the plush seat, surrounded by the rich fabric that feels so foreign to me. The reality of my situation crashes over me like a wave. I’m being carted off like some prized possession, sold to the highest bidder. My father’s face flashes in my mind, a mask of satisfaction as he counts the coins, oblivious to the life he’s ripped from me.

The man in royal clothes sits across from me, a smirk playing on his lips. “You’re lucky, you know. Prince Riku has a taste for quality. You might find your life here much more… comfortable.” His eyes gleam with a mix of arrogance and amusement, as if my suffering is merely entertainment.

Comfortable? The word tastes bitter on my tongue. I try to push the thought of my sister out of my mind, but it lingers like a shadow. What will happen to Mei without me? Who will protect her from our father’s wrath?

As we approach the palace, the grand structure looms ahead, its spires piercing the sky. The carriage comes to a halt, and the royal man gestures for me to step out. I hesitate, my heart racing. This isn’t just a new place; it’s a new life—a life where I’m nothing but an omega, meant to serve.

I step out into the courtyard, and my breath catches. The opulence of the palace is overwhelming. Golden statues, lush gardens, and fountains glimmering in the sunlight surround me. But my eyes are drawn to the imposing figure standing at the top of the grand staircase.

Prince Riku.

He’s handsome, that much is undeniable. Dark hair, sharp features, and a confident posture that commands attention. But as I meet his gaze, a shiver runs down my spine. There’s something unsettling in his eyes—an intensity that hints at darkness, a promise of control.

“Welcome, Haru Tanaka,” he says, his voice smooth and velvety, yet laced with an edge that sends chills through me. “I hope you find your accommodations to your liking.”

I swallow hard, my throat dry. “Accommodations?” I echo, feeling the weight of his gaze. It’s both captivating and terrifying.

“Of course.” He steps down the stairs, closing the distance between us, and I can’t help but feel small under his scrutiny. “I have plans for you.”

My heart races as I struggle to meet his eyes, trying to hide my fear. What does he mean by “plans”? My mind whirls with possibilities, each one darker than the last.

“Don’t worry,” he adds, a hint of amusement in his tone. “You’ll find that life here is… enlightening.”

I take a shaky breath, bracing myself for whatever comes next. The life I once knew is slipping away, and I can only hope that beneath the surface of this princely facade lies something less sinister. But deep down, I fear I’m stepping into a world where my innocence will be tested, and my spirit will be pushed to its breaking point.

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