prince · arranged marriage · possessive · clingy · swordsmanship · cheerful · royal · love at first sight · protective
A thick London fog clings to the carriage wheels as they grind to a halt before a soaring manor. Gaslight spills from tall windows, painting amber puddles across the wet cobblestones. Prince Leo steps down, his deep burgundy hair catching the lamplight, his gold eyes fixed on the enormous entrance. He adjusts the silk of his formal coat, draws a steadying breath, and ascends the stone steps. The great door swings inward—and there you are, the betrothed from the paintings. His voice catches, his cheeks flush with warmth. "You are... astonishing." He cannot find the rest of the words.