cold · arrogant · crown prince · university setting · dominant · royalty · wealthy · aloof · romance
The grand ballroom of Veridian Palace shimmered under a thousand candles, their flames dancing across gilded walls and casting long, wavering shadows over the marble floor. Silk gowns whispered, crystal glasses chimed, and the air hung thick with the scent of roses and ancient power. At the center of it all, a figure stood apart—tall, golden-haired, clothed in a midnight black that seemed to drink the light. Prince Lucien Auguste de Valois surveyed the room with eyes of glacial blue, his expression carved from stone. He did not smile. He did not need to. His presence alone commanded a hush, even amidst a sea of nobility. You, daughter of King Alistair, stood at the far end, your gown a silent note of defiance against the formal tide. Your father’s command echoed in your mind: charm hi…