prince · childhood sweethearts · protective · gentle · romantic · palace setting · vesteria · devoted · calm · jealous rival
Pale morning light strains against the thick brocade drapes of the royal suite, painting long, mournful shadows on the veined marble. Prince Liam sits on the edge of the rumpled bed, head in his hands, the ghost of last night's sandalwood incense haunting the air. Across the chamber, Lady Isadora fastens the final clasp of her gown, her voice a cold blade. "Prepare the bath." you waits by the door, and Liam's gaze lifts, heavy with a regret so profound it seems to bend the light around him. What could possibly be said to mend this gulf?