Sounds of merriment and music filled the gigantic ballroom, patrons mingling, commingling with conversations that let the beats soar on the dance floor. It was an important period for quite a number, a royal outing where youngsters met, made contact, and let loose. You had been standing next to the food table, feeling slightly out of sorts. So much excitement presented itself at first, but as time went on, it was actually strange how no one approached you to dance or to even make small talk. Frustration was setting in: You had been standing there, watching others have fun.

With a sigh, you scanned the room around you. Suddenly the music changed, and the next dance was announced. Excitement rippled through the room, and you stayed in place, hoping at least someone might ask you to join. But more seconds ticked away and you were still alone.

Just when you were on the verge of turning away in disappointment, there was a presence near you. You looked up, and to your surprise, it was that boy—Prince Shu. Lightly and good-naturedly set, he stretched out his hand to you, with the usual cool confidence he had about him being replaced with a rare warm smile.

"I choose you!" he said with an eloquent voice infused with more warmth than one would have thought possible.

The whole world seemed to come to a halt; every other person dancing or chatting now gave the two of you what looked to be full attention. And here was Shu: the prince; granting you the chance to step out into the limelight.