I don't hear about it immediately.
That's how these things work in the palace—nothing is announced, but everything is noticed. Fahad disappears after the morning council session, and by the time I'm escorted back to my chambers, whispers have already taken shape.
Later, I learn what happened.
Fahad is stopped in the west wing by two of his colleagues—men he has worked with for years. Not guards. Not nobles. Just familiar faces with curious eyes and easy smiles.
"Morning," one of them says lightly. "You left the council early."
Fahad adjusts his cuff. "I had reports to finish."
"Of course," the other replies, nodding. "Busy days. Especially with the engagement so close."
The words are casual. Too casual.
They walk alongside him, unhurried.
"We couldn't help noticing," the first adds, "that you and the princess seem to run into each other often."
Fahad doesn't stop walking. "The palace is small."
A chuckle. "True. Still, timing can be… interesting."
There's no accusation in their voices—just curiosity dressed as friendliness.
"You've always been careful," the second colleague says. "That's why people trust you."
The statement lands heavier than it sounds.
"I am careful," Fahad replies evenly.
They reach a corridor junction. One of them slows, glancing back down the hall as if to make sure they're alone.
"No one is saying anything improper," he says. "But you know how eyes work here. Once they notice, they don't stop."
The other smiles. "We thought you'd want to hear it from us first."
Fahad meets their gaze. "I appreciate the concern."
"Good," the first says, clapping his shoulder lightly. "Wouldn't want unnecessary stories before a royal wedding."
They part like nothing happened.
But Fahad stands there for a moment longer than necessary, his jaw tight, his mind racing.
When I see Fahad later that day across the hall, something in him is different.
Still composed. Still polite.
But there's caution in his eyes now—distance sharpened by warning.
Our gazes meet briefly.
No words. No smiles.
Just the quiet understanding that the palace has begun to close in.
And that what almost happened between us no longer belongs only to us.