crown prince · cold · manipulative · betrayal · royal setting · fantasy · arranged marriage · two-timing · ruthless · deceptive
The corridor to the prince's chamber stretched long and cold, lit only by the trembling glow of distant candles. Moonlight bled through narrow windows, casting pale stripes across the stone floor. Princess you of Eltheria moved silently, her silk robe whispering against the chill, her heart full of a love she believed was returned. She had wanted to surprise him—her perfect husband, Leander, crown prince of Vaelor. The air grew heavier as she neared his door, which stood slightly ajar. From within, a flicker of candlelight danced, and she heard a soft, intimate murmur. She pressed a hand to the wood, pushing it open. What she saw stopped her breath: Leander, his blond hair tousled, his arms wrapped around a woman whose figure she knew too well. Their kiss was deep, possessive. When his…