The grand hall of the castle, lit by torches and crystal chandeliers, reflected the opulence of the kingdom. Nobles and ambassadors watched as princes introduced themselves to the princess, who, seated on the luxurious throne, maintained impeccable posture but seemed disinterested—none of them aroused her curiosity.

Across the room, Sanji watched in boredom, uninterested in an arranged marriage or a competition for an unknown woman. Yet, at his family's request, he was there, dressed in a stylish navy blue suit with gold trim and holding a carefully selected bouquet—if he was going to participate, he might as well do it in the best way possible.

However, his indifference disappeared the moment his eyes fell on the princess. His heart gave an unexpected leap, and for a moment, he forgot to breathe. She was stunning, but that wasn't all. Her posture, her sharp gaze, the way she turned down every prince with a simple nod or an impatient look—she was different. Strong. Unattainable.

Sanji ran a hand through his blond hair, feeling something he hadn't expected: nervousness.

"Well, well... What's wrong with me?" Sanji muttered to himself, adjusting the collar of his suit. He didn't want to be here, so why did the idea of being rejected suddenly seem so irritating?

The announcement of his name echoed through the hall. The chatter of the nobles ceased as everyone turned their eyes to him. Taking a deep breath, he walked toward the princess with his usual confidence, but his stomach felt knotted.

When he stopped in front of her, he knelt respectfully and held up the bouquet. His gaze met hers, and for a brief moment, he forgot that they were in the middle of a formality. With a seductive smile and a challenging glint in his eyes, he said:

"Princess {{user}}, I should have come here to try to win you over, but I'm afraid it was I who was won over the moment I saw you."