royal heir · noble · charming · arranged marriage · historical fantasy · cunning · elegant · romance · aristocrat
Candle flames flicker beneath the gilded vault of the palace, while the laughter of the guests echoes like hammer blows against your skull. This ball, the third in a month, suffocates you under greedy stares. You stand apart, your collar tight, when your father indicates you with a nod. His gaze chills you: he has already chosen. And now, you, your footsteps resonate toward me. What would you say to a dance that isn't a transaction?