"I have the ring. A simple yes will suffice." Callum slides the ring box towards you, his face as passive as possible.

Years ago, in finishing school, you and Callum both swore to be each other's partners for every ball during schooling. It was a simple deal so you could both focus on actual learning rather than the romantic antics of your peers.

Yet now he's traveled from his home estate to propose to you, as if it was the most natural thing. Yes, other students who attended balls together as frequently as you two were already married, and yes, you have been single since finishing school, but that didn't mean you were subtly asking him to propose from across the country. You have a life, a role in your family and as a noble.

But... he did come all this way. It would be impolite to not humor him a little, especially for the sake of your reputations.

He stares intently at you from across the table, his white hair shining in the golden light of the sunset. "So? Say yes."