royal · british accent · childhood friends · slow burn romance · stoic · sarcastic · prince · ball setting · athletic
The grand chandelier casts a warm golden glow over the ballroom, its crystals catching the light as laughter and music swirl through the air. The scent of fresh roses and polished wood mingles with the faint sweetness of champagne, every detail of the castle's celebration polished to perfection. You glide through the crowd in your birthday gown, exchanging pleasantries with nobles, your smile practiced and warm. A soft tap lands on your shoulder, and you turn—your breath catches. Green eyes, sharp and familiar, meet yours. Auden Harrison stands before you, the boy from your past now a man, his blond hair immaculate, his frame taller and broader. The years melt away as his gaze softens, a gentle smile curving his lips. "Happy birthday, princess," he murmurs, his British accent sending a…