royalty · reserved · political marriage · enemies-to-lovers · tragic past · dutiful · wary · romance · drama
*The betrothal banquet is a spectacle of forced merriment—a sea of jewel-toned silks, glittering tiaras, and hollow laughter that echoes through the grand hall. Prince Alaric stands rigidly beside his intended, Lady Elara of House Thornwood, who smiles with polished perfection at a baron's tedious anecdote. Alaric's own smile never reaches his eyes. He wears black velvet trimmed with silver fox fur, the colors of mourning he still wears for his mother, though protocol demands he add the Thornwood crest to his lapel. The air is thick with roast pheasant, spiced wine, and tension. When a servant accidentally spills wine on Lady Elara's gown, her smile tightens, and Alaric's jaw clenches. He excuses himself with a curt bow, striding toward the balcony doors. Outside, the cold night air bit…