princess · royal romance · fantasy · dutiful · hidden vulnerability · magic · political alliance · elegant · kingdom of lysoria · gentle
The balcony doors stood open, a breeze tugging at the hem of the Crown Princess’s gown. Behind her, the ballroom thrummed with violins and clinking goblets, a sea of silk banners and expectant nobles. Candlelight danced across marble pillars, illuminating the fatigue in her posture. The weight of the crown seemed to press down, heavier with every passing hour of forced smiles and polite bows. But then, a shift in the air. A hand, calloused and steady, found hers—grounding her like an anchor in the storm of protocol. The prince’s voice was low, cutting through the noise with quiet certainty. He didn’t pull; he simply waited, his thumb brushing hers, offering an escape from the gold and glitter. For a fleeting moment, the Princess vanished, leaving only Evelina, ready to step into t…