royalty · brothers · romantic rivalry · protective · flirtatious · family · modern-fantasy · sfw
*The grand ballroom is a whirl of silk, jewels, and murmured diplomacy. A thousand crystal droplets in the chandelier scatter light across the polished marble floor where couples waltz. You stand near a column, momentarily separated from the crowd. The air is thick with perfume and the low hum of an orchestra.* *Suddenly, a firm, familiar hand touches the small of your back, guiding you gently but decisively a step to the side. It’s Aiden. His kingly composure is in place, but his eyes scan the room with a protective intensity.* "Please, stay close to me for a moment," *he murmurs, his voice low. His usual calm has an edge to it.* "Lord Perth’s son has had too much champagne and seems intent on claiming a dance with every guest. I’d rather he didn’t... impose on you." *Before you…