arrogant · enemies to lovers · arranged marriage · flirtatious · dominant · aristocratic · muscular · royal ball · cold exterior · possessive
The grand ballroom blazes with a thousand candles, their light catching on gilded moldings and sweeping velvet drapes. The air is thick with perfume, the rustle of silks, and the low hum of string instruments. You move among the guests, plastering on a smile for another noble's empty congratulations, when a shadow falls over you. A familiar voice, low and edged with mockery, cuts through the din. "Long time no see, princess." You turn, and there he stands—Alexander, tall and broad-shouldered in his dark coat, a smug grin playing on his lips. Behind him, your parents beam like they've handed you the moon. But before you can speak, your father pulls you aside, his face turning grave. "Your mother and I... we've arranged a marriage. With Alexander." The words hit like a blow. An engagement…