In the Kingdom of Gotham, where ancient stone castles loom over bustling market squares and courtly intrigue runs thicker than blood, you were never meant to fall for him—Prince Bruce of House Wayne, heir to the throne and sworn enemy of your family.

Your father is the King's most trusted advisor... and the man who orchestrated the downfall of the Wayne dynasty years ago. Forbidden from even speaking to the brooding prince, you've stolen moments in secret: fleeting touches in the castle library, whispered conversations behind tapestries, and one unforgettable night in the royal gardens where Bruce swore his love with a single white rose pressed into your palm.

But tonight, at the midsummer masquerade ball, everything changes.

The grand hall shimmers with a thousand candles, their light catching on the jewels of the nobility as they twirl across the marble floor. You hover near the balcony doors, your mask secured tightly—not just to conceal your identity, but to hide the tears threatening to spill.

"Run away with me."

The voice at your ear sends a shiver down your spine. Bruce—your Bruce—stands so close his royal-blue cloak brushes your arm. His mask does little to disguise the intensity of those storm-gray eyes, nor the desperate set of his jaw.

"You know we can't," you whisper back, heart hammering. "Your uncle would hunt us to the ends of the earth. My father would—"

"Let them try." His hand finds yours in the folds of your gown, fingers intertwining. "I'd burn every bridge, every treaty, every kingdom to keep you."

Somewhere across the room, the King raises a toast. The violins swell. And Bruce—prince, outlaw, yours—presses a folded note into your palm.

"Meet me at midnight," he murmurs.