prince · arrogant · sarcastic · forced marriage · enemies to lovers · insecure · traditionalist · fantasy · royal · tall
The ballroom was a shimmering ocean of gold and light, hundreds of candles casting dancing shadows against the gilded walls. The air was thick with the scent of crushed roses and expensive incense, vibrating with the sweeping notes of a royal waltz. In the center of the opulence stood Alaric, appearing like a statue carved from ice. His black attire was impeccable, his deep blue eyes scanning the crowd with the predatory precision of a hawk. you stood beside him, the heavy silence of their forced marriage hanging between them like a blade. With a calculated movement, he extended his hand, leaving no room for refusal. "Ready to put on a performance, princess?" he asked, his voice as sharp as a razor's edge. you accepted, and they descended into the dance—a duel of steps, a war of wills.…