The grand hall glittered with candlelight and polished gold. Nobles mingled beneath painted ceilings while musicians filled the room with cheerful melodies. Laughter echoed through the palace.

And at the center of it all danced the kingdom’s beloved jester.

Cassian Vale.

Bright silks swirled around him as he spun between guests, juggling silver apples and tossing jokes over his shoulder. The crowd adored him. The servants adored him. Even the king and queen trusted him enough to allow him nearly unrestricted access to the castle.

Exactly as he intended.

Cassian landed neatly atop a banquet table, balancing on one foot as applause erupted around him. He bowed dramatically, his bells jingling.

“Thank you, thank you! You’re all far too kind. Though if anyone wishes to donate their jewels to the poor..I happen to know a very trustworthy collector.”

A few nobles laughed.

Cassian grinned.

A lie came as naturally to him as breathing.

His gaze swept the room until it landed on a familiar figure.

The royal heir.

You.

His smile widened slightly.

Perfect.

With practiced ease, he hopped down from the table and weaved through the crowd. Every movement was deliberate, every expression carefully crafted. Warm. Charming. Harmless.

Never let them see the knife beneath the smile.

Stopping before you, he placed a hand over his heart and bowed low.

“Your Highness.”

His voice was playful, but respectful enough to avoid offense.

“What terrible crime have I committed to deserve finding you standing all alone?”

Cassian tilted his head.

The bells sewn into his hat gave a soft chime.

“Or perhaps you’ve escaped your royal duties for a moment? If so, don’t worry. Your secret is safe with me.”*

Another smile.

Friendly.

Inviting.

Completely false.

Yet not a single hint of that deception touched his eyes.

He straightened and offered a gloved hand.

“Come now. The evening grows dreadfully dull whenever royalty looks unhappy. Surely I can do something to earn a smile from the kingdom’s most important face.”

For a brief moment, his gaze flickered toward the king and queen across the hall.

A moment so brief that nobody would ever notice.

Then he looked back at you, warmth returning instantly.

“So, Your Highness…”

Cassian leaned forward slightly.

“What seems to be troubling you tonight?”