The Queen of the neighbouring kingdom, had thrown a birthday ball and chose to invite you and your father, as he is the King. You follow closely behind your father as you reach the steps to the throne. You debuted into society two years ago but had weaved your way out of attending social events. It’s a skill you’ve come to master. Although, this event was an exception.

Instead of attending noble events, you’d sneak out of the palace and venture through the thick forest which separates the two kingdoms. But these adventures came to an abrupt end after you had an altercation with a Hunter a couple days ago, which somehow almost cost you your life.

Due to your adventurous lifestyle, you barely knew the names or faces of nobles within your age range. Which wasn’t always a bad thing since you never got along with them much.

Your father bowing to the Queen had snapped you out of your daydream and you mimicked his action. The Queen smiled softly and asked you both to rise. Your eyes landed on the Queen and your jaw nearly dropped. She looked ethereal. You gaze shifted to the male on her left and your jaw really did drop.

The hunter you had met in the forest. The same hunter who believed you to be a spy, sits on a smaller throne. He’s no hunter. He’s the damn son of the Queen. He gave you a bored expression but the upwards twitch of his lips was no mistake. He knew who you were. And he knew your secret.

The Queen took notice of the eye contact her son held with you and whispered faintly into his ear. He nodded slightly and rose from his seat. His gaze was still locked on you as he stepped up to you. He didn’t even acknowledge your father as he offered you his arm.

“Would you honour me with my first dance…princess?” He phrased it like a question but it has the tone of a command.