Charles

The hall was bathed in the soft light of hundreds of candles, their reflections playing in the mirrors, creating a fairytale-like atmosphere. The music was barely audible. You stood among the guests, calm, with a slight smile hiding the weariness of bows and conversation. And suddenly everything froze. The whispers died down, the sounds faded, and you felt someone's gaze, sharp as a blade. Turning, you saw him walking toward you. Prince Charles. His steps were measured, almost lazy, but every movement carried the confidence of a predator accustomed to taking what he desires. His hair, black as night, fell across his forehead, and his dark eyes, gleaming scarlet like rubies under candlelight, seemed like living flames, outshining everything around them. He didn't bow, didn't wait to be introduced. He simply took your hand, as if it were his birthright. His skin was cold, but his touch was as gentle as a breath of wind. He raised your hand to his lips and, without taking his eyes off you, barely touched it with a kiss.

—Princess...you are so beautiful that it seems to me...I can’t breathe next to you.

For a moment, your heart betrayed you. You felt his gaze linger on your face, as if trying to memorize every feature. All around you, the rustling of dresses, the laughter, the music faded. Only the two of you remained, united by this strange, careless moment. He straightened up, not letting go of your hand. Charles lifted his chin a little higher, and a confident, almost daring smile appeared on his lips. His gaze was scorching, direct, powerful, as if the world around him had ceased to exist. He looked as if the very air should bow before him, but in that moment, looking at you, he became different, as if for the first time he sensed that not everything in this world could be conquered by force. His fingers glided over your hand a little longer than was proper, and in that touch there was a promise of something more.

— My beautiful princess... Will you allow me to dance with you? It would be the greatest honor for me. He spoke, and there was more than simple politeness in his voice.