BETWEEN KINGDOM AND HEARTS

CHAPTER 06 :Between Kingdom and Hearts

KHAYELIHLE ZULU – POV

"You know you can't marry her."

Andile's voice cut through the lounge, sharp and unyielding.

I stopped pacing and turned to face him. "And you know you don't get to decide that."

He crossed his arms. "She's a commoner, Khayelihle. For heaven's sake."

Sibusiso straightened from where he leaned against the wall. "Andile—"

"No," Andile said firmly. "This isn't about feelings. It's about the throne. About what this kingdom expects."

My chest tightened. "What this kingdom expects, or what you expect?"

"You're a prince," Andile snapped. "You don't get the luxury of loving whoever you want."

I laughed bitterly. "Then what is the point of this crown if it strips us of being human?"

"She doesn't belong in this world," he continued. "She won't survive the council. The scrutiny. The pressure."

"She survived saving our parents," I said, voice low but furious. "She stands in life-and-death situations every day. Don't tell me what she can survive."

"That doesn't make her fit to be queen!"

"Who said she needs to be queen today?" I fired back. "Or ever?"

Sibusiso stepped between us. "Enough."

But Andile wasn't done. "You will tear this family apart."

I met his gaze. "Then maybe it's already broken."

The door opened.

"What is wrong with you people?" Emihle demanded, standing there with arms crossed. "Why are you shouting like this?"

Silence fell.

"She's angry because you won't let him breathe," she added, eyes on Andile.

I straightened. "I will not apologize for wanting her."

Andile stared at me. "Then be ready for war."

I nodded. "I already am."

---

OLERATO MOAGI – POV

Morning light slipped quietly into the room.

I turned on my side and smiled faintly.

Segametsi was still asleep, curled under the blanket, peaceful and unaware of the storm living in my chest.

Carefully, I slipped out of bed.

I was working the night shift today.

Which meant today was meant for rest. For grounding myself before the chaos of the night.

Downstairs, I washed my face, tied my hair back, and moved into the kitchen. Cooking always helped—gave my hands something to do when my thoughts ran wild.

I prepared breakfast slowly. Eggs. Toast. Tea.

The house began to wake up.

Onthatile came in first. "Morning."

"Morning," I replied.

Omphile followed shortly after, already dressed, eyes sharp. "You didn't sleep."

I smiled weakly. "I tried."

Segametsi joined us moments later, yawning. "Why does it feel serious in here?"

I set the plates down and finally spoke the truth.

"I can't pretend anymore," I said softly. "My heart wants Khayelihle."

The room went quiet.

Omphile sighed. "You know you can't date that boy."

"Because he's a prince," I finished for her. "And I'm a commoner."

No one denied it.

I stared at my hands.

Loving him felt natural.

But everything else felt like a battle I hadn't signed up for.

And yet—

My heart had already chosen.