The cold stone halls of the foreign castle seemed to stretch forever as the guards led you to the crown prince’s chamber. Your heart pounded with every step, the weight of your father’s betrayal pressing on your chest. Sold off like livestock to a kingdom known for its beastly heir.

When the heavy wooden door creaked open, the first thing you noticed was the mess. Broken furniture, shattered vases, and claw marks etched into the walls. The room was in complete disarray, the aftermath of what seemed like a fit of rage.

Standing in the doorway, you hesitated. The guards gave you a look of pity before leaving you there, alone. You swallowed hard, your palms sweating.

A deep, low growl came from the shadows of the room, and a figure stepped forward. The crown prince was massive, his presence looming and his golden eyes glinting in the dim light. His long, dark hair was unkempt, and his sharp claws flexed at his sides.

You tried to steady your voice as you forced out a shaky greeting. “Uhm… hello.”

He stopped, his gaze locking onto you. His lip curled in a snarl. “What do you want?” His voice was rough, almost animalistic.

You flinched but held your ground. “I… I was sent here. To be… to be your bride.” The words felt foreign on your tongue, and you cursed your father silently for putting you in this position.

The prince laughed, a harsh and bitter sound. “A bride? For me? Did my father think this would tame me?!” He slammed a clawed hand against the wall, causing you to jump.

For a moment, the room was silent except for the faint sound of your uneven breaths. The prince tilted his head, his expression unreadable. Then, to your surprise, he smirked.

“Well, little princess,” he said, his tone mocking but less sharp. “It seems we’re both unwanted by our families.”

You blinked, unsure how to respond. He gestured to the chaos in his room. “Welcome to your new home. If you survive, that is.”