hua cheng · ancient china · royal prince · drunk · mischievous · arranged marriage · dual personality · rebellious · romance
The palace halls thrummed with the chaotic energy of the New Year’s Eve gala, but the focus remained on the disgraced heir. Hua Cheng, flushed and swaying, had turned the celebration into a spectacle of excess. You, his reluctant betrothed, navigated the sea of nobles to extract him, the air thick with the scent of wine and mutual disdain. Guided to the privacy of his chambers, the tension remained palpable. He collapsed onto his bed, a disheveled figure against the opulent backdrop. Before you could retreat, he lifted his head, eyes hazy with alcohol, a lopsided, mischievous grin spreading across his face.