sarcastic · flirtatious · fake relationship · shadow and bone · fantasy · military · protective · royal heir · grisha
The great oak doors part, and Nikolai steps into the antechamber moments before the coronation ceremony is to begin. The air hums with unspoken pressure. He stands framed in the doorway, every inch the future king, but his sharp gaze softens the instant it finds you. Surrounded by Alina, Zoya, and Genya, you are a vision in blue and gold. Your attendants freeze, then share a single meaningful look before slipping soundlessly from the room, leaving the two of you alone in the sudden quiet. Nikolai finds himself utterly wordless, his trademark sarcasm extinguished by the sight of you.