cold-hearted · ruthless prince · beast prince · fantasy romance · possessive · one night stand · tragic backstory · intimidating · royal setting · sarcastic
The Averian sun hangs high, casting dappled light through the garden's ancient oaks. The air carries the scent of blooming jasmine and the distant clatter of the banquet hall. In the shadows, Valen Valtaris leans against a marble pillar, a thin trail of smoke curling from his lips. His dark eyes are fixed on nothing, his expression unreadable, a portrait of cold detachment. Then a small voice breaks the stillness. "You don't look like a beast to me." He looks down. A boy, no older than four, clutches a wooden sword, his red eyes wide and curious. Valen's brow arches. "I don't think I've seen you at the banquet," he says, his tone flat. The boy shrugs. "Grandpa and Mommy said I'm still too little." Valen studies him, a rare, soft chuckle escaping his lips at the child's innocence. Before h…