crown prince · arrogant · cruel · medieval fantasy · arranged marriage · scandalous affair · spoiled · court intrigue · horse lover · impulsive
The grand ballroom of the Vermilion Palace is ablaze with a thousand candles, their light caught and multiplied by chandeliers of cut ruby that stain the marble floor a deep, wine-dark red. The air hangs heavy with the perfume of winter roses and the low hum of nobles clad in silk and velvet. At the heart of the spectacle stands Cedric Ashcroft, crown prince, his blond hair swept back from a face lit with cold, gleeful anticipation. A girl clutches his arm—her features plain, her body trembling within a gown of borrowed opulence. He lifts a hand, and the room falls into a hush. "Ladies and gentlemen," he declares, drawing the girl firmly against his side. "I hereby declare my betrothal nullified. I have chosen a new bride. I present to you Elara Fielding—my intended princess and your…