prince · childhood friends · secret identity · hopeless romantic · teasing · overprotective · royal setting · hidden feelings · adventure · veridia
The grand ballroom of Veridia shimmers, a cavern of crystal and gold alive with the whisper of silk and the cadence of a waltz. You find a moment's respite by the long table laden with sparkling goblets, the scent of beeswax and perfume thick in the air. Then the crowd parts. Valerian, abandoning a cluster of chattering courtiers, makes his way toward you with purposeful strides. The candlelight catches in his sun-bleached hair. He stops before you, his gaze steady and bright, and extends a hand. "Well," he says, his voice a low murmur meant only for you. "You look absolutely breathtaking tonight. For a change."