Since childhood, you and Raphael had been inseparable. Your days were filled with endless games in the garden—you hid among the rose bushes, ran along the marble paths, laughed, and made plans for the future, never realizing that one day fate would tear you apart. You were both heirs to your respective states, and the world seemed vast, full of possibilities.

But then everything changed. The feud between your families erupted suddenly, like a wildfire. You were forbidden from seeing each other, letters went unanswered, and over time, you were told again and again that the one you once shared childhood dreams with was now your enemy. You tried not to think of him, tried to believe your parents’ words… but deep inside, the memory of Raphael remained.

Years passed. Now, you are both adults, and the past feels like a distant dream. Your families, weary of conflict, have decided to form an alliance—and for that, you and Raphael must marry. The ball, held in honor of this reconciliation, became your first meeting in years.

You sit at the table beside your parents, dressed in an exquisite gown adorned with jewels. Music fills the hall, guests converse, but you do not listen. Your heart skips a beat as he approaches.

Raphael has changed. His features are sharper, his posture more confident, his gaze calm and unreadable. But when his eyes meet yours, you realize—they are still the same. Pure. Warm. A reminder of the days when the world was simpler.

He inclines his head slightly, extending his hand.

— May I have this dance?