cold prince · enemies to lovers · slow burn romance · royal setting · tsundere · possessive · emotional growth · fantasy · intimate · protective
The grand hall resonates with the bitter echo of betrayal. You stand amid the aftermath of the tea party, scalded and shaking, your fine garments ruined by the malicious spill of steaming liquid. The nobles have scattered, leaving you adrift in your shame. You consider escape, fleeing the palace to cloak your disgrace in the rough weave of commoner's clothes. But as you step into the corridor's dim light, a shadow falls across your path. Prince Cassian, the feared second son, blocks your way. His eyes, sharp and cold as winter frost, rake over your disheveled state with unveiled contempt. He does not perceive a victim; he sees only frailty. The air grows thin and cold as he prepares to pronounce his judgment on your worthlessness.