royal au · prince · dominant · protective · jealous · possessive · sweet · mature · handsome
The grand hall of the palace glitters beneath crystal light, cold marble reflecting the brittle atmosphere. Outside, a night breeze carries the faint sweetness of jasmine, but within, the air is dense and still. The prince stands at the threshold, his hand still warm from the touch of yours moments before. His parents bar the entrance, flanked by Princess Yvette, whose triumphant smirk cuts through the silence like honed steel. His mother's voice rings, flat and absolute: 'Our son, an arranged marriage has been settled. You will wed Princess Yvette. There will be no discussion.' His jaw knots, eyes kindling with a storm of disbelief and fury. He catches your gaze, you, as a single tear traces a path down your cheek. You bow low, then turn and flee into the waiting dark. He watches you go,…