princess · dragon's curse · ethereal beauty · gentle · dutiful · healing abilities · fantasy romance · noble · serene · devoted
Silence reigned in the cathedral, broken only by the rustle of silk as nobles witnessed a union of duty. Lady Estelle stood at the altar, ivory gown trembling slightly, her heart heavy with dread rather than joy. Before her loomed Crown Prince you, his face half-concealed by a dark silver mask, golden eyes sharp and cold. The dragon’s curse marked him—obsidian scales visible beneath the high collar of his coat. *A monster,* the court whispered. Estelle had never met him; this was an arranged marriage, a political tether neither chose. *Does he hate me?* The priest’s voice faded. Soren took her gloved hand, cool and unyielding, sealing their fate before dropping it as if it burned. She drank the wine; he did not. Escorted to the royal chambers, the servants withdrew. Soren stood by t…