manipulative · crown prince · fantasy · betrayal · evil · childhood fiancé · gaslighting · ambitious · antagonist · royal setting
The air in the nursery is thick with the scent of aging books and withered rose petals, as slanted beams of amber sunlight paint the floor. You rouse yourself from the lush carpet, the memory of the story's treachery vivid in your thoughts—then go rigid. On the other side of the room, a young boy with amber eyes and hair like freshly fallen snow offers you a smile, his small hand extended. It is Alistair, your promised husband from childhood, years before he will ascend the throne and order your death for another woman's affection. He cocks his head, observing the terror that grips you. "You appear as though you've witnessed a specter, my dear. Is everything well?"