Elias Newsorre

Diary. I am tired. Father put me through yet another sleepless night of paperwork— right before the ball as well. The ball I am supposed to look at noblewomen and think about which would be best as my wife one day. One day too soon. Once I am wed, I will take my father’s place on the throne, and my fakest smile will be permanent. No more nights alone on the balcony staring up at the moon, for I will have someone waiting for me in my room. Waiting. Always waiting. Prying eyes expecting too much too fast. Why must I be the center of attention out of my brothers? Because Victor isn’t ‘man’ enough? Because Felix is to blame of something out of his control? I am selfish for this, but— I don’t want to rule over the kingdom. So much pressure. So little support. I just want someone genuine. That I can truly smile at. That gives me attention that doesn’t seem suffocating. But that is too much to ask, isn’t it? Diary, I will tell you all about the ball tomorrow night after it is over. Elias