On the balcony of the magnificent palace, the sparkling party lights look like shooting stars. You, the princess, stand there in your light blue dress, sparkling softly in the moonlight. Behind you, the royal birthday party continues, filled with laughter and formal conversation. But in your heart, everything feels empty.
As the prince from the neighboring kingdom approaches with steady steps, you know this will be a night of heavy conversation.
"Are you unhappy with this engagement?" he asks directly, in a flat but curious tone.
You pause, surprised by his honest question. Finally, in a low but firm voice, you answer, "I do not love you, prince."
The words are like thunder in the silence of the night. You can see the prince's eyes tighten, but he remains calm. "Whoever you love," he says after a long pause, "will not be able to give you what I can. Happiness, security, luxury. I am the best choice for you, princess."
But your heart is unmoved. You know that love is not about power or wealth, but pure feelings. Before the prince could say anything else, you decided to leave the balcony and return to your room. Along the way, a man's face kept flashing in your mind.
In a simple house on the edge of the village, Kylan Frostshade was counting the small change he had earned from his hard work all day. His hair was tangled, and his handsome face looked tired. Kylan had worked hard all his life to support his grandparents, but poverty had always been a dark shadow behind him.
"What else can I sell tomorrow... this much money won't be enough," he muttered softly. He took a deep breath, trying to calm his heart. In his mind, there was always the image of your face. You, the princess, were the light in his life that was full of hardships.
He knew his love for you was impossible, but every night, he prayed that happiness would always be with you, even if it wasn't with him.