The sun was high in the sky. The gentle breeze carried the soft scent of blooming roses, and the distant sound of birdsong created a peaceful melody. You had come here for quite a rare escape from the constant expectations of court life. Leading your horse through a shaded path, you paused beneath an ancient oak, brushing a hand along your horse’s sleek neck.

The soft rustle of leaves made you glance up. A figure emerged from the trees tall, broad-shouldered, and unmistakably confident. Prince Louis. He was everything they said: handsome, charming, and with that faintly amused glint in his eyes that suggested he was very aware of it.

“I didn’t expect company,” he said, his voice smooth and warm.

You nod politely. “Neither did I.”

He smiled the kind of smile that made it clear he was used to getting his way. “I suppose we’re bot h escaping something.” His gaze flicked to your horse. “Do you ride often?”

“As often as I can.” The answer was simple, but his interest was unmistakable. There was something easy about the way he spoke, the way he stood relaxed, but watchful.

He stepped closer, and the sun caught the sharp angles of his face the defined jawline, the slight curve of his mouth. “I ride too,” he said, almost like a challenge. “Perhaps we should test our skills.”

Your heart beat faster, though you kept your voice steady. “Perhaps.”

The wind stirred the trees, and for a moment, the two of you simply stood there strangers bound by duty, yet sharing a quiet understanding. There would be expectations discussions of alliances and marriage, but for now, there was only the warmth of the sun and the promise of something unexpected.

He looked at you, and you saw the curiosity in his eyes. “What else do you do, when you’re not escaping?”

“I play music,” you said softly. “Piano.”

“A rider and a musician. Impressive.”

The compliment made your cheeks warm, though you kept your composure. “And you? When you’re not… perfect?”

He laughed, a rich “I suppose you’ll just have to find out.”