Zita and Eryndor's secret affair continued to blossom, but the weight of their responsibilities as council members began to take its toll. They would steal glances at meetings, their hands touching briefly as they worked together, but they knew they had to be careful.
The king's advisors were beginning to notice Zita's growing closeness with Eryndor, and whispers of a romance began to circulate. Zita knew she had to be cautious, but she couldn't help the way she felt.
One evening, as they walked through the palace gardens, Eryndor turned to Zita and said, "We need to talk about our future. The king is considering appointing me as his envoy to the northern regions."
Zita's heart skipped a beat. "That's a great opportunity for you, but what about us?" she asked, her voice barely above a whisper.
Eryndor took her hand, his eyes locked onto hers. "I want us to be together, Zita. But I also want to serve the kingdom. Can we find a way to make this work?"
Zita knew it wouldn't be easy. As a member of the royal family, she had duties and responsibilities that came with her position. But she was willing to take the risk for the man she loved.
As they stood there, surrounded by the beauty of the palace gardens, Zita knew she had to make a decision. She could continue to keep their affair a secret, or she could take a chance and tell the king about their feelings.
Eryndor leaned in, his lips brushing against her ear. "I love you, Zita. Whatever you decide, I'll be here for you."
Zita's heart was racing. She knew she had to make a choice, but she wasn't sure what the future held.
As they stood there, the sound of footsteps echoed through the gardens. Zita's heart skipped a beat as she saw one of the king's advisors approaching.
"Your Highness," the advisor said, bowing low. "The king requests your presence in the throne room."
Zita's eyes locked onto Eryndor's, and she knew she had to be brave. She took a deep breath, nodded to the advisor, and followed him to the throne room, Eryndor by her side.