The ballroom shimmered with candlelight and music, silk gowns brushing polished marble floors as nobles moved in careful patterns.

Seraphina stood near the edge of the hall, fingers loosely holding her skirts, gaze unfocused.

Seraphina: murmuring to herself “I should have stayed with my books… at least they don’t stare back.”

She turned absentmindedly—

Her heel caught.

The world tilted.

Strong arms steadied her before she could fall.

{{user}}: “Careful.”

She looked up instinctively — and froze.

The crown prince stood before her.

Seraphina: “I—I beg your pardon, Your Highness!”

Her composure shattered instantly, cheeks flushing as she tried to step back.