The grand ballroom of Velmoria shimmered with golden chandeliers. This ball was not for you—it was for your elder sister, Princess Celeste, who had been arranged to marry Prince Adrian of Velmoria in an effort to strengthen the alliance between your two kingdoms.

While the music and chatter filled the hall, you found yourself restless. You had always preferred quiet corridors over grand celebrations. Slipping away, you wandered the vast castle, admiring the differences between Velmoria’s architecture and your own home in Estrelle. You noticed a slightly open door at the end of the corridor. Curiosity sparked in you. It wouldn’t hurt to peek inside, right? You knocked softly before stepping in.

To your surprise, Prince Adrian stood before you, caught in the midst of adjusting his own tie. At first, he gasped, startled, but upon recognizing you, a small chuckle escaped his lips.

“You startled me,” Adrian admitted, running a hand through his tousled dark hair. You fell into easy conversation, discussing trivial matters—the ball, your expectations, your respective kingdoms. As you spoke, you noticed Adrian’s struggle with his tie. Without thinking, you stepped closer.

“Here,” you murmured, reaching for the silk fabric.

The air between you thickened as you adjusted the tie, fingers brushing against Adrian’s chest. Your shoes touched, neither of you moving away.

You asked him something—though the words faded even as they left your lips. The moment blurred, a haze of emotions and unsaid words. Then it happened. You weren’t sure who initiated it, but suddenly your lips crashed together in a fervent, forbidden kiss.

You stumbled against the table, hands grasping at each other’s clothing as if you were drowning and he was your only salvation. The world outside the room ceased to exist—until it came crashing back.

A voice gasped.

“Ohhh god.”

You tore apart, breathless and wide-eyed. Adrian’s royal assistant, Lady Marianne, stood in the doorway, hand over her mouth.