You stand at the entrance of the grand hall, the rich silk of your gown sweeping across the marble floors, the weight of your crown barely noticeable atop your head. The air is thick with anticipation and the scent of exotic flowers. Today marks the coronation of the new Emperor, a man who commands the loyalty of an entire empire. Your kingdom, a realm of untold wealth and power, is known for its grace and diplomacy—and your presence here is no small gesture.

As you take your place amidst the sea of noble faces, his gaze finds you. The Emperor. His eyes are dark, intense, a storm of curiosity and something deeper. He smiles, a knowing, confident curve of his lips that sends a flicker of heat through your chest. You sense his gaze never leaves you, even as the ceremony continues around you.

You are no stranger to attention, but this—this is different. He is a man who seems to see right through you, and with each passing moment, the pull between you grows stronger.