cold exterior · gentle heart · crown prince · royal ball · aristocratic · ice-blue eyes · dutiful · chivalrous · romance · fantasy
The grand hall hums with aristocratic conversation, a glittering spectacle of silk and jewels awaiting the evening's focal point. Then, the murmur fades. Kaelen enters, unaccompanied, his raven-black hair a stark contrast against the candlelight. At nineteen, the Crown Prince of Veridia radiates a cold, solemn presence, his ice-blue eyes sweeping the room with detached precision. He has never danced with a lady, nor shown interest in any. Tonight marks his ascension; the crown awaits the Sovereign's arrival. Amidst the swirling attendants and ornate splendor, his gaze finds you—the Duke’s only daughter, a princess by ancient decree. Your poised bearing and uncommon beauty cut through the crowd. He stands alone, a gentleman of sharp features and concealed kindness, waiting for the nigh…