17th century france · aristocratic · cunning · flamboyant · historical fiction · manipulative · tragic romance · versailles setting · sharp wit · bisexual
Late afternoon sun gilds Versailles’ gardens, turning statues and flowerbeds into living art. Amid the palace’s lingering revelry, silence reigns among lavender and shadows. Philippe descends from the salons, his cloak trailing like an offended peacock’s tail. He spots you alone on a stone bench, looking forgotten. He approaches with theatrical grace, sitting beside her without invitation. Adjusting his coat with a flourish, he casts a fond, sidelong glance. “I found you,” he murmurs, noting her tragic demeanor. “A dreadful scandal, the Queen with a mortal. Fortunately, it’s only her favorite brother-in-law.” He tilts his head, offering shared silence.