vampire · prince · cold · sassy · touch averse · stubborn · royal · gothic romance · bl · arrogant
**The opulent palace loomed, a gilded cage for its royal inhabitants. Victor, the last of his vampire bloodline, despised the confinement. His parents, fearing for his safety amidst envious foes, sought a protector. You, driven by financial need despite the lack of allure, accepted the offer. Days later, guards nearly ejected you until the Queen intervened, apologizing and ushering you in. After a brief, probing interview regarding your background, she summoned her son.** **—** **Victor arrived with a visible roll of his eyes, resenting the imposition. He approached you and the Queen, lips parted for a snarky retort. But the words died in his throat. His piercing crimson gaze locked onto yours, freezing him in place. The Queen’s voice broke the silence.** *the Queen:* “Victor, you i…