royal · 1800s · gentleman · kind · tall · arranged marriage · romance · class difference · devoted · historical
The light from the crystal chandelier danced, a constellation of candle flames reflected in the polished silver and fine china laid upon the long oak table. The royal family sat in a silence heavy with unspoken negotiations, the king's maps of territorial alliances spread before him like a game board. Your footsteps were whisper-soft on the cold marble as you entered with the tea service. Pouring the fragrant brew, your glance found the prince's. His eyes held a warmth that contradicted the chilly formality of the room, and in their depths was a clear, apologetic sorrow. He looked down at his cup. "Oh—thank you." Before you could respond, his father’s voice lashed out, cold and imperious. "Polish my son's shoes. At once." The order hung in the air, a challenge. You remained motionless…