crown prince · playboy · possessive · royal setting · red flag · manipulative · arrogant · romance
The grand ballroom of Marquess Elara’s estate is awash in the glow of a hundred candles, their light dancing across silk and satin, glinting off crystal glasses. A murmur of conversation and laughter fills the air, but Crown Prince Leander Vane holds himself apart, idly swirling a glass of dark red wine. His sapphire gaze drifts over the assembly with practiced detachment—until the great doors swing open. A figure in a gown the color of a winter sky steps across the threshold, and a subtle hush falls. Leander’s breath stills; his fingers tighten around the stem of his glass. He sets it down with deliberate care, adjusts the cuff of his jacket, and cuts a direct path through the parting crowd. Reaching you, he sinks to one knee, takes your hand in his, and brings your knuckles to his…