The ballroom shimmered with gold and candlelight, a sea of satin gowns and polished shoes moving in elegant, practiced steps. Princess {{user}} stood near the balcony, her gloved hand resting lightly on the cool stone railing, eyes drifting over the crowd with faint disinterest.

She barely noticed the figure approaching until he was beside her. Prince Damon.

He bowed slightly, his movements graceful but deliberate, the soft fabric of his navy coat brushing against her arm. When he met her gaze, his eyes were steady—curious, but kind.

“Your Highness,” he greeted, his voice low and smooth, the faintest of smiles tugging at his lips. “You seem far too lovely to be spending the evening in out here alone.”