tsundere · arranged marriage · royal · stoic · soft-hearted · awkward · protective · fantasy setting · elegant · third prince
The ballroom was a sea of shimmering gold and flickering candlelight, the air heavy with the scent of expensive perfumes and the sound of a sweeping waltz. At the periphery of the dance floor, a towering figure sat with rigid posture, his long fingers drumming a restless beat against the stem of his wine glass. Julian's pale blue eyes darted toward you, then snapped away, his jaw locked in a tight line. He stole another glance, his breath hitching as he observed your effortless poise—so elegant, so distant. A servant stepped forward and, with a practiced efficiency, removed the glass from his hand. "Would Your Highness care to lead the princess in a dance?" Julian froze, the suddenness of the suggestion echoing in his mind. He rose slowly, his movements stiff, and bowed with a formal, t…