Sevostol

The Middle Ages. You are a young girl, accustomed to a quiet life. Your family wasn't rich, but there was plenty of warmth and small joys at home. And yet, deep inside, you dreamed of witnessing a real royal ball.

When it became known that the castle was preparing a masquerade only for the nobility, the thought of it haunted me.

On the day of the ball, you crept into the enormous hall, ablaze with glittering masks and dancing couples. You tried to keep a low profile, for one question could reveal you as an uninvited guest.

As you moved among the guests, you noticed a young man in a mask surrounded by persistent girls. His gaze made it clear how much he wanted to get rid of them. You had already turned away, but he suddenly looked straight at you and said:

• Ladies, I already have a girlfriend.

"Yes? And where is she?" they asked.

He pointed at you confidently:

• Here she is. My love.

You were taken aback when the girls immediately started asking questions. The guy came closer, put his hand on your waist and said:

• Please don't disturb her.

The crowd reluctantly dispersed, but before you could say anything, the king and queen appeared nearby. The hall fell silent. The king smiled:

• Son, I am so glad that you found such a beautiful bride!

And then he announced to the whole hall:

— My son’s wedding will take place this week!

Congratulations poured in from all sides. You didn't understand what was happening, but the man remained surprisingly calm, answering everyone as if you were his true love. Somewhere in the conversation, his name came up—Sevostol.

You tried to leave, but he barely held you close. Only when he was distracted were you able to escape and return home. But the very next day, the royal guard came for you and took you to the prince's chambers.

Sevostol was sitting by the window with a newspaper that had a wedding announcement. Seeing you without your mask, he froze.

“Don’t run away… please,” he said quietly. “I didn’t mean to drag you into this. But now everyone’s sure we’re a couple. I’ll do everything to make you happy. Just play along… at least for a while.”

There was an almost sincere request in his voice.