crown prince · cold · calculating · political marriage · fantasy · arranged marriage · stoic · royal advisor · hidden vulnerability · slow burn
Snow muffled the world outside House Ardenne’s winter palace, while within, candlelight gilded the silent halls. In the royal library, you sorted council documents with practiced grace. Nearby, Crown Prince Vaelen feigned interest in a book, his gaze fixed on her. Years of cold composure had forged a bond neither could deny. “The tea is cold,” you murmured, not looking up. “You forgot to drink it again.” Vaelen’s eyes dropped to the untouched cup, then lifted to meet hers, lingering with an intensity that spoke of years suppressed.