Keith’s Constellation

I should feel guilty. But I don’t. I’m here in my wedding dress, and I’m thinking of a man who is not about to become my husband. I pace back and forth trying to chase him out of my mind, but failing. If anything it’s making me think about him more. His eyes were the first thing I saw about him. His beautiful ojitos de oro. My heart yearns for him in this moment. My thrumming heart yearns for him to hold me in his strong arms. I want to hear his heartbeat as I rest against his chest. His earthy scent that infiltrated my senses and intoxicated me as he held me. I miss the way his lips hesitated to meet mine when we first kissed, but the longer we were together that hesitation went away. I truly have no one to blame but myself for everything. I shut down what my heart and soul longed for, and listened to reason. I’m not marrying for love like I naively thought I would. Instead I’m marrying for my kingdom. What kind of future queen would I be if I thought about my own selfish needs before my people? I make myself sit down, trying to calm myself down before becoming an inconsolable mess and ruining my makeup that had been beautifully done. If I could go back and do it all over again, I would, but it’s too late. In just a few minutes I'll be marrying a man I don’t love, and the man I love will be watching it all.

Take me back to the night of my party. Let me see his warm golden eyes again for the first time under the Jacaranda trees. Let me fall in love with him all over again. Stop me from dancing around my feelings for him, and let me be vulnerable and love him with everything I have. No dancing around our feelings. Let me choose what my heart wants. We would’ve made it work. It would've been hard work, but it would’ve been worth it.

It’s too late to live a life with a love I don’t regret.

Here I stand at the altar making a promise I don’t mean to cold, blue eyes. It takes all that I have to not run away and cry when in my peripheral vision I see those golden eyes that once looked at me with pure love and adoration, now looking cold and dead. He looks like that because of me. When I looked into his eyes while we were together I saw it all. Our wedding day, the love we shared, the projects we would carry out together, the times we would reunite after inevitably being apart. I saw our children who equally resemble us. Them running, playing, and laughing in the garden as we watched over them. All of that is now dead as my now husband plants his lips on top of mine, sealing my fate to him until one of us dies. As we turn to look out to our audience who are now cheering for us. I can only help myself to look at him. His fake smile meeting mine. His golden eyes meeting my silver ones. And that’s all I needed to feel better.

It had rained the night before and Estella grew nervous as she looked out the window of her villa. No sign of him yet. Did he get stuck somewhere? Maybe something came up last minute? Maybe he wrote a letter but it got delayed due to the rain? Estella can only bring herself to pace back and forth in the foyer, but never straying too far from the door. Sometimes staring out the window — hoping he was already out there and she accidentally missed him. Was there a miscommunication somewhere in their exchange? Or was this a sign she shouldn’t spend the day with him?

Finally when she hears the sputtering of a horse she’s quick to run to the window she’s looked out countless times this morning.

She stood before him in her brand new pretty white dress. The dress she bought specifically for today.

“I’m sorry I’m late.” His gentle eyes filled with sincerity.

“No, it’s okay. I’m glad you're here now.” She’s so happy she could cry, but she doesn’t want to marr this day with tears. Both of them dressed down from their usual attire befitting of their status. She liked seeing him like this, yes he looked amazing in his usual coat, but something about seeing him in just a simple shirt made her mouth water.

They walked hand in hand throughout the town. Stopping at every stall, feeling like they had all the time in the world. Enjoying all the food and treats the town had to offer. Sharing a piece of freshly baked pastries, a refreshing glass of hibiscus water, a kind fruit vendor offering them freshly cut fruit for free. Throughout the day there was intermittent rain, but somehow it always rained while the couple was inside and always let up before they were leaving for the next shop. But during a particularly hard hitting nought of rain they found themselves in a bookshop. Estella picked a book off the shelf and handed it to Keith saying it was one of her favorites. Keith did the same. Together they read as the rain soundtracked in the background of the bookshop as they waited for the rain to pass. And when it eventually did, they continued on their day but not before buying their books. Droplets come off their shoes with each step as they venture on. Comfortable silence between them is loud, both of them having so much they want to say, but knowing it’ll hurt more if spoken aloud.

It was now night and they’re still walking hand in hand. A band sat at the edge of the ambient lit plaza playing gentler music than they had been during the day.

“Dance with me?” Keith squeezes her hand. She smiles at him

“It’d be my honor.” And they both draw each other close.

The remnants of rain still kept the stone roads wet. Hand in hand and bodies pressed flushed against one another they swayed along to the wistful melody that the band was playing holding each other close, knowing full well this is probably the last time they would be able to hold each other, and be alone like this. It was a good day for rain. It was easier for Estella to hide her tears as they hit the already wet stone. Keith held her close, memorizing how she feels against him, knowing this will be the last evening he will be able to hold her.

The walk back to Estella’s manor is a blur. The firm but delicate grip they held each other's hand as they walked in the cool night air. Comfortable silence surrounded them. It wasn’t because they wanted to forget the walk home, but it was out of their minds once the door closed behind them and their lips drew close together instantly like magnets. They clumsily make their way to Estella’s room in the darkness. Keith lifts Estella up into his arms and gently lays her down on the bed and cages her between his arms. Before resuming they both take a moment to look at one another. Keith's breathing is heavy, evident by his heaving chest. His fair skin flushed and pupils dilated. Estella’s hair splayed across the pillow into a perfect mess. So many emotions brewing behind those silver eyes Keith loves so much. Estella places one of her perfectly manicured hands on Keith’s chest, right over his heart. Their expressions soften as Estella uses her other hand to bring Keith down to her. Their lips meeting once again in a tender reunion. Estella’s overwhelming emotions get the best of her and she feels a few stray tears leave her eyes. Feeling her tears, Keith is quick to react to kiss her tears away. He pushes himself back up and pulls away. And despite her tears Estella smiles up at Keith. Estella gently caresses Keith’s face. Her fingers trace each curve of his face.

“Do you want to continue?” He softly asks.

Estella nods, “Yeah.”

Keith once again lowers himself down and Estella then moves her hands to Keith’s shirt and begins to undo the pristine white buttons.

There’s glimmering sunlight flickering through the window and she feels featherlight kisses on her face. Estella can’t help but smile.

“Good morning.” She hears his raspy morning voice.

“Good morning.” She greets back, her smile never faltering despite her still being half asleep.

“It’s okay, you can go back to sleep.”

“No, I'd rather be awake right now. This is better than the dreamless sleep I was having.”

“I’m afraid I have to go soon, Estrella.”

“Don’t…” Estella reaches out to him, but only managing to grab his vest.

When she woke up again, the room was much brighter. She quickly shoots up out of her bed. Running downstairs, only to run into Esperanza. Estella catches herself by holding onto Esperanza’s shoulders.

“Whoa! Where are you going?”

“He’s gone isn’t he?” Estella looks over at the door. Her voice cracked.

“…yes.”

“…he’s gone.” Her grip on Esperanza’s shoulders tightened. To the point it’s painful. And she keeps repeating the mantra. He’s gone. He’s gone. He’s gone. As if saying it more would help her come to terms with it. He’s gone. He’s gone. He’s gone.

“Why?”

“You know why…”

“Just one more day… please. I—I… just give me one more day.” The strength she showed all day yesterday melts away. Her legs become weak and her tears well up and begin to pour as she crumples to the floor.

“No… No…No…I just want one more day with him, Esperanza. I don’t want to marry him… I can’t. I want Keith.” Estella is inconsolable as Esperanza crouches next to Estella. Trying to console her to the best of her abilities but ultimately failing. Other staff around the estate come to look at the scene and are shocked to see their strong Princess in such a state.

After Keith and Estella met and dance together, they slowly start to spend more time together and fall in love. I haven’t said this anywhere yet so, here it is. Matias is also in love with Estella! Surprise!

So what it boils down to is that both Keith and Matias are in love with Estella. Since Cinnabar has been closed for so long, the kingdom of Cinnabar is shaky. And the Queen suggests Estella getting married to help solidify Cinnabar status and economy. Both Keith and Matias put their hats and hearts into the ring. Estella would do anything to protect her kingdom and has a very strong sense of duty to her kingdom. She’s torn between marrying for love or for her kingdom. She weighs her options and sees that marrying Matias is ultimately the better option for her kingdom. The next wip takes places the night before Matias and Estella’s engagement becomes official.

“Where is your sister?’

“Who knows but she’s probably with Esperanza.”

Keith overhears the first prince of Cinnabar’s conversation as he makes his way out into the courtyard – needing a moment away from the lively party and socializing. Taking a leisurely stroll, Keith examines every plant and herb he has never seen before. The gentle breeze wafts up the scent of the flora, and scatters the fallen petals of the Jacaranda trees. Keith continues along the path, and he feels his nerves settle down. But when gets closer to the grove of jacaranda trees along the edge of the palace walls, he has this feeling of dread overcome him. It wasn’t a feeling of dread, no, in fact it was the opposite. It was that feeling he often felt when something good has happened, like when his newly compounded medicine works as intended or he just won a battle with a formidable opponent. As he gets closer to the trees, he sees swaying fabric amongst the trees, he rushes closer, worried a maid had lost the freshly washed linens and would be reprimanded. As he gets closer, he sees that it’s not linens, but the first princess of Cinnabar. His heavy footsteps come to a sudden stop, and a strong gust of wind blows through within that moment. The sound of the footsteps brought out Estella's military instincts and she quickly turned around, ready to engage in combat. As she turns around Keith notices her flushed face – it was obvious she had been crying. Keith knew he was a sorry excuse of a person when he cried, but he swore he had never seen a more beautiful person in that moment.

They’re both silent as gold and silver gazes meet, and the only thing that can be heard is the dying gust of wind.

“I’m sorr-” they both start, but stop when they see the other has also started to talk. They let out laughs.

“You first.” Keith gestures to Estella. She nods and thanks him.

“It’s a pleasure to officially meet you, Prince Keith. I am Estella Castillo de Reyes. You have traveled so far to join us here. Is this your first time in Cinnabar?”

“Unless my memory fails me, yes, it is.”

“It is my absolute honor to welcome you to my home, Prince Keith. I hope you enjoy your stay and see the many beautiful things my kingdom has to offer.”

“I have enjoyed everything so far, especially the beautiful ones.” Keith gives her a soft smile.

“I assume you’ve taken an interest in our herbs, which is why you’re probably out here.”

“You’ve caught me. Seeing the gardens was an added bonus; I just needed a moment away from the party.”

Estella laughs, which is like music to Keith’s ears, “We definitely know how to party in Cinnabar. How do the parties in Jade compare?”

“They’re definitely not as lively. And the food is unlike anything I’ve ever had before.”

“I hope you mean that in a positive way.” Estella teasingly smirks and Keith stutters in response

“O-oh, yes! The food is delicious, I did not mean to insult your kingdom, my deepest apologies, Princess Estella! A weed like me will accept any punishment you deem necessary for disrespecting your kingdom!” Keith is quick to bow to Estella which flusters her.

“Prince Keith! That won’t be necessary, I was only teasing you. I apologize for the confusion.”

“No, I should be more careful with my words.”

“Prince Keith, as a token of my apology, I would be honored if you would dance with me.” Estella gives him a gentle smile, one he returns.

“Are you sure you want to dance with a guy like me?”

“Why wouldn’t I?”

Her confession shocks him that he has no other option but to accept, he extends out his arm, “It would be my honor to accept your offer to dance with you, Princess Estella.” He bows again at her.

Arm-in-arm they walk together back to the castle. As they get closer, the sound of the music grows louder. As they enter the ballroom, all eyes are on them. Liam watches in shock and awe from his spot as he sees Keith enter with the main star of the night’s event. The band then transitioned from the mid-tempo song to a slower song. Keith takes the lead and both of them waltz across the dance floor, Estella's poofy dress sways with each movement. All eyes on them as they dance like they’ve danced together countless times before.

To whom it may concern,

You are cordially invited to the coming-of-age party for Princess Estella Castillo de Reyes at danburite palace. Presents for the princess are not required or expected, but would be greatly appreciated. This party will also offically mark the grand reopening of Cinnabar’s borders. Please join us in this dual celebration. There will be a meal and dancing to follow. We hope to be blessed with your attendance, please inform us if we can expect your presence.

Thank you,

Queen Ophelia Castillo de reyes of Cinnabar