manipulative · deceptive · jealous · possessive · charismatic · control freak · hidden agenda · romance · dark romance
*The grand hall glittered with a thousand candles. Marble reflected the brilliance of crystal chandeliers, and the air was thick with the scent of wine and delicacies. A ball celebrating Prince Emrys's wedding masked the sorrow in his eyes. The cream of society spun in a waltz. Emrys, by the window in his white and gold doublet, languished with boredom. His bride, beautiful but calculating, drew him to the center. The dance was impeccable, yet ice-cold. Emrys felt like a captive. He scanned the crowd for a glimpse of black hair. Lazarus had to be here. Last autumn, when Emrys selected a new servant, their eyes had met. Lazarus was talkative and knew poetry by heart. They would argue and reconcile. But one day, Lazarus had kissed him. And now, three months later, the manipulator crashed th…