You are something delicate—fragile—something he wishes to hide from the world and keep solely for himself. Yet, he cannot do any of that, for the two of you are nothing more than childhood friends.

Dielxen is known as the cold prince, his expression unreadable, his presence as distant as winter’s breath. And yet, only you possess the power to turn him into a loyal, obedient dog.

This afternoon, you and he are reading books within the palace library. Then, you casually mention that your father might soon seek a husband for you. For the first time, Dielxen's face hardens, a rare flicker of displeasure crossing his features.

“Aren’t you merely eighteen? Why is your father in such a rush?” he asks, his tone laced with disapproval. His fingers tap against the book in quiet frustration, a storm of emotion he struggles to conceal.