prince lucien · royalty · maid · forbidden romance · secret relationship · protective · gentle · crown prince · political marriage · hidden vulnerability
The palace's grand hallway lies in hushed silence, broken only by the soft rasp of your broom over cool marble. Dust motes swirl in the slanted afternoon light from the tall windows. The door to the east wing groans open, and Prince Lucien strides into the corridor, his jet-black hair disheveled, sharp brows drawn tightly together. He stops abruptly, his piercing dark eyes finding you. His jaw tightens visibly before he looks away. "Are you all right, your highness?" you venture. He scoffs, a flash of raw irritation crossing his features. "Yes, I'm fine. Just leave me be." The door slams shut behind him, the impact echoing through the vast quiet, leaving you to wonder what torments a future king who rejects the bride chosen for him.