"Good morning, Princess Rebecca."

Rebecca startled, tightened her fingers around the book. She turned to find Princess Isabelle approaching, the omega's smile shy, a contrast to the racing of Rebecca's heart.

"Good morning, Isabelle," Rebecca managed, her own smile not quite reaching her eyes. She shifted her weight, angling her body towards the doorway. "I was just heading to the sitting room for some morning tea."

Isabelle's eyes brightened, a hopeful light shining within them. "Would you mind if I joined you?" The words were soft and hesitant. "I wouldn't want to disturb you if you prefer solitude."

Rebecca's gaze flicked from Isabelle to the book in her hands and back again. Her fingers drummed against the cover, a silent battle as she pondered what to do. Every fiber of her being wanted to decline, to retreat to a quiet corner and lose herself in Queen Adeliad's story. But she couldn't very well say no. Not with how Isabelle was gazing at her.

"Of course, you're welcome to join me," she finally said, forcing a smile.

They walked to the sitting room, the silence between them somehow comfortable but laden with intruisive thoughts. Rebecca cradled the book against her chest, its edges digging into her skin as if to remind her of its presence. She stole a glance at Isabelle, who walked beside her, seemingly oblivious to Rebecca's predicament. She found herself wishing, somewhat guiltily, for some interruption - a servant's urgent message or Elara's timely intervention - anything that might grant her something out of this engagement.

Upon entering the sitting room, Rebecca's gaze immediately sought out the small table by the window. She made her way there, carefully setting the book down on a side table, its worn cover facing away from Isabelle's curious gaze.

"Please, make yourself comfortable," Rebecca said, gesturing to the armchairs. Her fingers tapped a nervous rhythm against her thigh as she moved to call for tea.

Within moments, a servant appeared, his footsteps nearly silent on the thick carpet. "Your Highness?" he inquired, bowing deeply.

"Tea for two, please," Rebecca requested.

The servant nodded and disappeared as swiftly as he had come. Isabelle sank into one of the chairs, her posture perfect despite its softness. Rebecca perched on the edge of her own seat, her back rigid, hands clasped tightly in her lap.

"I hope I'm not interrupting any important reading," Isabelle said timidly. She nodded towards the book, a question in her eyes.

Rebecca's fingers twisted together, knuckles whitening. "Oh, it's nothing of consequence," she replied, the lie tasting bitter on her tongue. "Just some old family records I stumbled upon."

"Family records? That sounds fascinating. I'd love to hear more about your lineage if you're willing to share."

"Well," Rebecca began, forcing a light tone, "I'm sure you're familiar with most of it. Generations of alpha rulers, each leaving their mark on Lumina's history." She paused, then added with a wry smile, "Though I must admit, after a while, the tales of conquest and political maneuvering all start to blend together."

Isabelle laughed softly, the sound like wind chimes in the quiet room. "I can imagine. But surely there must be some interesting characters in your family tree? Not everyone can be a stern, unyielding alpha, can they?"

Before Isabelle could press further, the door opened again. The servant came in with their tea.

"Thank you," Rebecca murmured, grateful for the interruption. Her hands moved with practiced ease as she poured two cups of tea.

Isabelle accepted the cup with a small thanks. Her fingers brushed against Rebecca's for a fraction of a second, and Rebecca found herself pulling back a touch too quickly.

Settling back into her chair, Rebecca cupped her hands around the warm tea, using it as a barrier - the steam rising between them, momentarily obscuring Isabelle's face. Rebecca took a small sip, using the moment to collect her thoughts.

Isabelle mirrored her actions, seemingly content with the peaceful atmosphere. Her hazel eyes, however, kept darting to the book on the side table, curiosity evident in her gaze.

"You know," Isabelle said, a hint of interest coloring her voice as she lowered her teacup. "I've always found history to be quite fascinating. Especially the parts that aren't widely known."

Rebecca felt her muscles tense involuntarily. "Oh?" she managed, struggling to keep her tone neutral.

Isabelle nodded, a small smile gracing her features. "Indeed. There are often hidden gems in old records - stories of past heroes, forgotten traditions. "It is rather interesting to see such changes that have happened," she said softly. "I hope you uncover something that surprises you."

Rebecca offered a tight-lipped smile in response. She appreciated Isabelle's genuine curiosity, but the topic of her family's history felt too heavy to discuss at the moment. She decided to steer the conversation in a different direction.

"Speaking of surprises, have you had the chance to try our special pastries? They're a well-kept secret, known only to a few," Rebecca said, her tone lightening as she reached for the tray. "Here, try one."

Isabelle looked slightly perplexed at the sudden change in subject but took the offered plate without protest. "That's kind of you. Thank you."

"It's no trouble at all," Rebecca assured her, relieved to have moved on to a safer topic. "We have a wonderful pastry chef here, and these are my favorites. I hope you'll enjoy them as well."

"I'm sure I will," Isabelle said, smiling sweetly.

They settled into a comfortable conversation, their earlier tension dissolving. Rebecca found herself relaxing as they discussed the pastries' flavors and how the cuisine is different in Isabelle's kingdom. Soon, their conversation naturally waned, and a peaceful silence settled between them.

"I hope you don't mind, but I brought a book of my own," Isabelle said as she reached into a pocket of her dress and pulled out a small, leather-bound volume. "I thought perhaps we could read together for a while? Sometimes it's nice to share quiet company."

"Not at all," Rebecca replied, genuine warmth creeping into her voice for the first time that morning. "That sounds perfect, actually."

"Wonderful." Isabelle settled into her seat, a small smile dancing on her lips.

Rebecca reached for Queen Adeliad's biography, carefully angling it away from Isabelle's view, and started reading from where she left off. Soon, both princesses were lost in their respective worlds.

~~~

They had a pleasant conversation while each enjoying their book. But now, the silence has become stifling. Isabelle obviously had something to ask her; however, it’s been several minutes since she felt Isabelle’s gaze lingering on her, and no words have yet to be spoken.

She was trying to be patient, but the silence stretched on, and the urge to break it and prompt Isabelle was becoming overwhelming.

Finally, it became too much. Clearing her throat, Rebecca set her fork against the porcelain plate and turned to Isabelle. "Princess Isabelle, if you have a question to ask me, please ask it. If not, then I would like to return to my reading."

Startled, Isabelle blinks rapidly as if pulling herself from deep thought. A faint blush colored her cheeks. "Oh...yes, Princess Rebecca. Forgive me."

“It is fine. What is it you would like to ask?”

“Princess Rebecca, I want to ask… I've been contemplating whether to voice a rather...unconventional request. But I find I cannot let the opportunity pass by without at least asking."

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Rebecca arched one brow. Her interest piqued despite herself, wondering what request she'd be hearing. "I'm listening," she prompted, keeping her tone neutral but inviting.

"In my kingdom, courtship traditions are rather different than your own. Omega suitors are afforded the chance to spend extended private time with their potential mate in order to better get to know them."

Her words hung in the air, the suggestion in them unmistakable. Rebecca's fingers stilled on the cover of her book, her mind working to process the unexpected request.

"You're asking for a private audience?" She kept her expression impassive, though she couldn't deny that she took notice of the intimate implications. "That is highly unorthodox here, as I'm sure you know."

"I am aware." Isabelle lifted her chin, holding Rebecca's gaze as best she could. But I believe the heart's affections cannot be truly discerned through the pomp and spectacle of public courting alone. How can I aspire to be your mate if I do not have the chance to know the real you?"

The words landed like stones dropping into a stillpond, rippling out in waves of unspoken questions. Isabelle had never been one to take the traditional view of propriety. For her to make such a bold request...

"You presume a great deal, my lady," Rebecca said at last, proud of herself for keeping her tone measured despite the thundering of her pulse. "What would make you deserving of such a personal privilege?"

A small smile played across Isabelle's lips, as if she'd been anticipating this very challenge. "Because I do not seek to impress you with frivolous displays as the alphas do. I only wish to reveal my true self to you… and see yours in turn."

The words were spoken with such earnestness that Rebecca felt her heart stutter at Isabelle's candid words.

She studied the other omega, seeing the quiet determination in her hazel eyes and the soft set of her jaw. Rebecca couldn't help but wonder what Isabelle saw in her own expression. Did she see how perplexed and flustered Rebecca was? Did she sense Rebecca's uncertainty or the spark of curiosity that had taken root in the recesses of her mind?

Isabelle had been one of the few suitors Rebecca felt a true affinity for since their very first meeting. Perhaps it was their shared natures or the love of quiet intellectual pursuits…

Though her feelings for Isabelle do not compare to those of Evangeline… or Thaddeus, for that matter. She did not feel any particular affection for Isabelle beyond fondness. But... it would not be completely terrible to spend more time with her. It has only been a day since she got to know Isabelle.

And perhaps…

"I'm sorry," Princess Isabelle broke the silence, the blush that stained her cheeks spreading to her ears. "I have overstepped. Please forget I ever mentioned this." She made to rise from her seat, and Rebecca was surprised to find herself reaching out and grabbing her hand.

"Wait," Rebecca said, and then stopped, unsure how to proceed. Isabelle was looking at her, her hazel eyes wide and expectant. "...You haven't overstepped at all. I was simply... considering your request."

Isabelle slowly sank back into her seat, unsure if Rebecca was simply being courteous or not. "Truly? You would actually entertain the notion?"

Rebecca felt her mouth curve into a small smile. "I'll admit, I was not expecting this, especially since it has been less than a week since the festival… And then there’s the idea that it is quite unorthodox for our kingdom’s traditions. To allow that kind of private closeness before any official courtship had commenced? I am not sure how my counselors or my parents would react… But that doesn't necessarily make it wrong... And I'm quite flattered that you find my company so engaging...”

She paused, reflecting on the alpha suitors who had thus far occupied the bulk of the courtship festival - their endless flamboyant displays and hollow flirtations. Isabelle's request, as bold as it was, carried a refreshing simplicity to it.

“In truth, I have never been courted before, but I’ve just recently found the pageantry of courtship rather… stifling,” Rebecca confessed. "There's so much effort to impress, to put into winning my favor, but so little actual opportunity to truly know one's suitors beyond their public personna."

Something sparked in Isabelle's eyes at her words, as if she knew where the conversation was headed. "So...you're not averse to the idea then?"

"No," Rebecca admitted softly. "I think it could be...nice. You and I...we're alike, in a way. I'm sure I would learn much from spending more time with you, Princess Isabelle."

A bright smile blossomed on Isabelle's face, as if the sun had emerged from behind a cloud. Leaning forward, Rebecca hesitantly wove their fingers together in an impulsive gesture, relishing the surprisingly grounding contact. "Very well, Princess Isabelle. I shall grant your request."

Princess Isabelle's eyes went wide, and she looked down at their joined hands. "Oh, Princess Rebecca! Truly? You'll allow me to court you in my homeland's tradition?"

Rebecca inclined her head. "I confess, I'm quite curious to experience your ways. Though we shall have to be discreet, of course." She let her smile take on a slightly playful edge. "I wouldn't want the alphas to get wind that I've played such favorites before the festival has even begun."

A most unladylike snort of laughter escaped Isabelle before she could stop it. Raising one hand to cover her mouth, her eyes danced with amusement over her fingertips. "Oh, I can only imagine their reactions. Though I rather think their heads might simply implode at the very notion."

Rebecca raised a brow, intrigued by this new side of the omega. "Oh?"

Isabelle blushed slightly, lowering her hand and tucking it back under the table. "Well...it's just that I've heard the alphas say that omegas can be so unpredictable sometimes. They've certainly not anticipated that I would dare approach you with such a request. I think it would serve them right if you granted it, if only to prove their point."

"Well, you make a good case, Princess Isabelle. So tell me, how would you proceed with our courtship if I were to grant you permission?"

Isabelle's eyes darkened slightly, a subtle shift that sent an unexpected shiver down Rebecca's spine. "In my kingdom," Isabelle began, her voice lowering to a near-whisper, "we believe that courtship should begin with the most intimate of encounters."

"And what would that entail, exactly?" Rebecca asked, her voice sounding unnaturally loud in her own ears.

"A kiss," Isabelle replied, the word seeming to reverberate around the room.

A kiss. It was such a simple, innocent act. Yet Rebecca's stomach swooped with nervous anticipation at the thought of Isabelle's lips pressed against her own.

"Would you...?" Isabelle trailed off, her gaze flicking briefly down to Rebecca's lips. "Only if you're willing, of course."

Rebecca hesitated, torn between her own desires and propriety. She glanced around the sitting room, noting that the two were the only occupants at the moment. The door was closed, the drapes drawn over the windows, and the only sounds were the rustling of the wind outside.

There were no servants about, and no one else could see them from the other side of the door.

She turned back to Isabelle, meeting the omega's hopeful gaze. "I....Ye-"

The word had barely left her mouth when Isabelle was suddenly leaning forward, closing the distance between them.

Her eyes fluttered closed as she felt soft lips brush against her own. A sigh escaped her, and she felt Isabelle's breath against her cheek, a moment before Isabelle pulled away.

When she opened her eyes, she found Isabelle gazing at her with a look that couldn't be better described other than sultry.

"That was... nice," she managed, the word not nearly enough to describe the sensations that had just flooded her body. Her first kiss.

"Indeed." Isabelle's lips quirked into a smile. "And you know what else these private audiences might entail?"

Rebecca felt heat rising to her cheeks. "Hmmm?"

Isabelle's fingers brushed against Rebecca's hand, the touch light but electric. "We could-"

Then suddenly Isabelle pulled her. Rebecca let out a little gasp of surprise, but she didn't resist. In a single motion, she found herself sliding out of her chair and onto Isabelle's lap.

"Isabelle!" she admonished. She tried to keep her voice steady, but her heart was pounding and her hands were trembling.

"Sorry," Isabelle murmured, her face flushed. "I couldn't help myself."

"You couldn't -" Rebecca began, then stopped. She looked down at Isabelle. Really looked at her. She saw the hunger in her eyes, the hint of pink on her lips. And something in her couldn't help but to look away.

Isabelle's fingers trailed lightly up Rebecca's arm, leaving a tingling sensation in their wake. "I'm sorry," Isabelle murmured again. "I just.. couldn't resist."

Rebecca's heart pounded, apprehension building up inside her. She wanted to speak, to find the right words to figure out this sudden shift in their dynamic, but her thoughts felt tangled, her mind buzzing with conflicting emotions.

"I understand if you're uncertain," Isabelle said gently, her fingers still tracing invisible patterns on Rebecca's arm. "But I couldn't ignore the way you look sometimes and the way you hold yourself back. It's like you're searching for something, and I... I want to be that something, if you'd let me."

Rebecca's gaze flickered back to Isabelle's face, and her breath caught. "I don't know," Rebecca admitted softly, her voice barely above a whisper. "I don't know how I feel about us, and I don't want to lead you on. But I can't deny there's something intriguing about your proposal. You're right that I won't know if feelings can grow unless I allow myself to explore this. So perhaps... perhaps I'd like to try, to see where this might lead. This is certainly... unconventional."

"Indeed," Isabelle agreed, her smile turning soft. "But I assure you, it's the most effective way of determining compatibility. After all, how can one truly know if they're suited as mates without experiencing a taste of what it might be like?"

The implications hung heavy in the air between them, charged with possibility and a hint of danger. Rebecca found herself both thrilled and frightened at the prospect. "And how do you propose we arrange such... encounters without raising suspicion?"

Isabelle's eyes glinted with mischief. "I'm sure between the two of us, we can devise some creative solutions."

Rebecca felt a flutter in her stomach, equal parts excitement and nerves. "You're full of surprises, Princess Isabelle. I must admit, I'm intrigued by your proposition."

Isabelle beamed, giving Rebecca's hand an excited squeeze. "You won't regret this, I promise, Rebecca.”

"I look forward to it," Rebecca replied, meaning it wholeheartedly. “Until then, I shall eagerly await our next meeting."

"As will I." Isabelle's smile grew shy, her gaze lowered to her lap, the light in her eyes almost...dreamy.