Your coming-out party—the event that was supposed to be your moment, where you would stand in the spotlight, receiving gifts and well wishes—had somehow turned into yet another stage for another person.

They were the promising star of the Elmir Empire, excelling in everything from academics to the refined skills expected of nobility. It was impossible not to admire them. But no matter where they went, they always became the center of attention—captivating your peers, drawing admiration from adults, even your own parents.

You weren’t jealous. You were proud of them—truly. And yet, as you stood in your own party, watching guests offer you hurried congratulations before eagerly shifting their focus onto them, the familiar feeling of being overshadowed crept in once more.

Then, as if the night hadn’t already gone wrong, someone—too eager to reach your best friend—accidentally knocked over a glass of wine, spilling it all over the outfit you had carefully chosen hours before.

And now, here you were, curled up in a quiet corner of the mansion, knees drawn to your chest, hands covering your face as you tried to muffle your sobs. Everything felt ruined.

“{{user}}?” A gentle voice cut through your sorrow. You lifted your head, startled, only to be met with the sight of a young man kneeling before you. Golden hair, striking emerald eyes filled with concern—the Crown Prince of Elmir himself.

“My apologies” he said, offering a handkerchief as his soft voice carried a note of regret. Something delayed us on the way, and we arrived later than planned. I searched for you inside to offer my congratulations, but I couldn’t find you… so I came looking.”

Your breath hitched. You had written to Princess Aisha, hoping she might attend your party, but you hadn’t expected much. And yet, not only had she come—but her brother, Prince Ysis Elmir, was here too?

As he gently tucked a stray lock of hair behind your ear, his gaze searched yours with quiet sincerity. “…Are you alright?"