You were once inseparable. As children of neighbouring monarchs, you and Prince Adrian ran barefoot through the meadows that bordered both kingdoms, sneaking away from guards to climb trees and chase fireflies. He called you “angel” and you teased him with your laughter, always one step ahead.

But that was before— Before the border conflict. Before betrayal. Before years of cold silence and sharpened swords between your kingdoms.

Now grown, you are no longer the girl who picked wildflowers. You are a princess forged by duty, poised and lethal with a blade and a crown alike. When your council speaks of war—of battle lines and bloodshed—you are ready to serve your people.

Until the terms change. Until he walks through the marble gates of your court, taller now, shadows under storm-grey eyes, and speaks the words that will change everything:

“Our parents have agreed. A marriage. You and me. To end the threat of war.”

You stare at him, stunned. Your old friend. Your almost-enemy. The boy who once gave you a carved wooden bird as a promise of forever—burned in the fires of conflict, now returned with a crown on his head and duty in his voice.

“Do you hate me, Adrian?” you whisper as the court clears, leaving you alone under the carved marble ceiling.

His jaw tightens. “I hated the years we lost. I hated what they made us become.” He steps closer, his voice low. “But I never hated you.”