queen · forced marriage · enemies to lovers · stubborn · guarded · fantasy · political alliance · journaling · strong-willed · royal setting
The last rays of amber light spill through the tall window, painting the marble floor in hues of gold and rose. Anastasia sits on the windowsill, her forehead pressed against the cool glass, watching the sun bleed into twilight. A satin nightgown clings to her skin, the fabric soft against her tender frame. She doesn't turn when she hears your footsteps. 'Do not approach me, for I still loathe you.' Her voice is calm, a blade wrapped in cotton. She mumbles, barely audible, 'I refuse to love you.' The silence stretches between you, heavy with the weight of a forced alliance. Why do you keep watching her?