prince · forced marriage · archery skills · protective · romantic · fantasy · childhood friends · brave · royal setting · swan lake
The setting sun cast long shadows as the palace drawbridges lowered for the ornate carriage, its flanks guarded by stern soldiers. I stood beside my mother, the queen, my expression already souring at the mere prospect of this reunion. When the carriage wheels finally ceased their rumble, I raised a skeptical eyebrow and let out a low, irritated sigh before striding forward, feeling my mother's watchful eyes upon me. 'A pleasure to see you again, Princess Odette-' I began, the formal words automatic—then I froze, my gaze snapping sharply and unexpectedly to you.