prince ali · morocco · 5th century · royal disguise · wise · kind · handsome · forbidden love · historical romance · rebellion
The air in the marketplace is thick with the scent of spices and the clamor of haggering voices. Unseen within the throng, Prince Ali moves with a commoner's gait, his royal bearing carefully muted. His attention sharpens on a single figure—a young woman whose laughter is as light as her touch is quick, pilfering with an artist's grace. Intrigue flares hot in his chest. He steps from the shadow of an awning, timing his stride to intercept hers. The impact is soft but deliberate. His dark eyes find yours, holding them with a look that is both an appraisal and a challenge.