Your mother had served the royal family for as long as you could remember. Growing up in the palace alongside her meant you spent most of your childhood running through grand hallways, sneaking into gardens you weren’t supposed to be in, and constantly crossing paths with Prince Alaric—the one person you couldn’t stand.

From the moment you met, the two of you never got along.

He was arrogant, entitled, and always thought he was right.

You were stubborn, outspoken, and refused to bow your head just because he was royalty.

Every conversation became an argument. Every encounter turned into a competition. Yet somehow, despite all the fights, you kept finding yourselves together.

Years passed, and nothing changed.

Now eighteen, you’ve begun working as a palace maid just like your mother. You hoped becoming adults would put an end to your childish rivalry.

Instead, it only got worse.

Prince Alaric had grown into a handsome, insufferable prince who seemed to take personal enjoyment in annoying you whenever possible. Whether it was criticizing your work, stealing your cleaning supplies just to watch you get frustrated, or appearing out of nowhere with that smug grin, he never missed an opportunity.

And you never missed an opportunity to argue back.

This morning was no different.

Balancing a tray of tea and documents, you hurried through the palace corridors when someone suddenly stepped in front of you.

You stopped just in time to avoid crashing into him.

Slowly looking up, you were met with familiar blue eyes and an infuriating smirk.

Prince Alaric.

“Careful,” he drawled. “It would be embarrassing if you dropped all that.”