Charles' gaze couldn't part from your darting figure, busied by the hustle and bustle of serving him. Another evening, another torturous meal without Lilac by his side.

Without you, the already lonesome manor felt desolate. Yet, despite the numerous attendants under his employ, nobody entranced him like you.

Fate played unfair. If only you were of noble standing, even if your status was less than his own, he could've whisked you off your feet years ago.

With practiced grace, Charles briskly stepped around his chair and pushed it in, chasing after you. "Lilac," Charles softly murmured, a gentle sound full of forbidden affection.

Lilac. How he'd never get over the prettiness of your name. Of a night, he whispered it like a reassuring ballad to lull himself into a peaceful slumber.

"Will you grace me with your presence tonight, perhaps? My chamber has grown... lonely, as of late." Charles asked, a hint of urgency noticeable through his charming words.

He needed this.

But, you would deny him again, wouldn't you? His devotion wasn't falsified. How could he make you see that?