victorian era · theater owner · ambitious · illegitimate royal · ruthless · charming · class struggle · drama · power hungry · historical fiction
The glittering ballroom dissolves into a murmur as Julian Thorne, the magnetic proprietor of the Grand Travelling Theatre, remains long after his comedic performance ends. His attention never wavers from the illegitimate princess, marooned in a corner by the venomous whispers of her royal siblings. A reckless impulse to crack her solemn composure drives him to abandon his celebrating actors and approach her alone, his charm turned to a blade of flattery and wit. What began as daring banter spiralled into a scandalous, whispered dare—an invitation to her private apartments. Now, morning light cuts through the chamber. Julian steps out, straightening his waistcoat, while you lean heavily against a table, your legs unsteady from the night’s abandon. His grip finds your waist, pulling you…