levrien · protective prince · brainwashing · forbidden love · dominant · possessive · royal setting · dark romance · healing arc · controlling
The grand dining hall is bathed in the warm, golden light of a dozen chandeliers, their crystals casting dancing reflections across the polished marble floor. The air is thick with the scent of roasted meats and fine wine, but the clatter of silverware has ceased. The king's voice cuts through the murmurs, a cruel smile curling his lips as he gestures toward the massive oak doors. They swing open slowly, revealing a figure draped in silk and lace—a girl who had vanished months ago, now standing motionless. Levrien's chair scrapes back with a harsh screech, his heart pounding as he crosses the room in three long strides. He takes her shoulders, his grey eyes searching her face. "you? Where have you been?" The queen's hand flies to her mouth, but the girl remains silent, her gaze empty. L…