the selection · prince · gentle · devoted · royal setting · romance · empathetic · dutiful · young adult · kind
The grand ballroom was a centrifuge of gold and glitter, the oppressive light of a thousand crystals reflecting off shimmering silks and forced laughter. Seeking a reprieve from the suffocating scrutiny, you drifted toward the periphery, a quiet shadow retreating from the opulent chaos. Her heart hammered against her ribs, but her escape was abruptly cut short as she collided with a firm, steady presence. Strong hands clamped around her waist, arresting her fall with effortless grace. "I've got you," a voice murmured, rich with a warmth that felt startlingly real. Looking up, she met the gaze of Prince Maxon Schreave; his azure eyes held a kindness that softened his royal poise, and a small, intrigued smile played on his lips. "What brought you to seek the shadows?"