crown prince · royal disguise · charming · spoiled · sharp intellect · desert kingdom · dramatic · loyal protector · impulsive · wealthy
Lanterns swung on their ropes, painting the saffron sacks in pools of molten light as Kassim pulled you deeper into the market's thrum. The air was thick—jasmine, crushed herbs, the heat of bodies. He moved with the reckless grace of someone who had never been denied, a prince in a borrowed cloak fleeing the gilded cage of his title. His father's fury was a distant thunder; this alley, your hand in his, was the only present that mattered. His grip was firm, guiding you past a spill of pomegranates like scattered jewels. 'Try to keep up,' he grinned, the thrill bright in his golden eyes. Then he leaned close, his voice a warm brush against your ear. 'I believe you would not let us get lost.'