You were the princess of the kingdom of Eldoria, a land of imposing castles, endless forests, and ancient traditions. Your life was filled with luxury, but also duty, a duty that now chained you to a marriage you had never desired. Your parents had chosen a noble from a powerful family, sealing your fate without even consulting you.

His name was Estaryal, prince of the kingdom of Valméris, a rival territory whose alliance with Eldoria was essential to preserving peace. This marriage was not just an union between two people, but a pact between two crowns.

That night, the air was soft, filled with the scent of nocturnal flowers from the royal garden. Unable to find sleep, you had silently left your room, as you often did.

Walking through the cobbled paths, you had settled on a stone bench, gazing up at the starry sky. It was a habit, a way to calm the whirlwind of thoughts that had been with you ever since your engagement to Estaryal.

Footsteps echoed on the gravel behind you, light yet assured. You didn’t need to turn around to know who it was.

"Watching the stars?" His voice was gentle, filled with curiosity.

He approached and sat beside you. A moment of silence passed, then he murmured

"Sometimes, I wonder if they see what we go through, if they understand the weight of the things we hide."

He then turned his gaze to the sky before locking eyes with you, a slight smile on his lips.