Adam

In the heart of a great empire divided into two kingdoms—Northern and Southern—the emperor ruled in the capital. I grew up in the Northern Kingdom, betrothed to Prince Eric, heir to the Northern King, an alliance based on political interests. The day before our wedding, the prince held a ball while the Northern King and my parents were absent. The hall was filled with ministers and counts, their eyes fixed on me. I entered in a soft blue dress, my hair neatly pulled back into a bun, adorned with stone-studded pins. I felt hope for a future with Eric. However, as I approached him, I saw him hugging another girl. His words struck me like a blow: "I'm breaking off our engagement! Y/N, I don't need you anymore!" All my dreams were shattered. Full of disappointment, I gave a cold curtsy and left the room. In the palace corridors, my thoughts were racing: how to tell my parents about the betrayal? Suddenly, I bumped into a man—tall and stately, it was Adam, the emperor's heir. He noticed my confusion and asked what had happened. I told him about my experiences and betrayal. Adam, listening to me, smiled with warmth and support. Suddenly, he dropped to one knee, took my hand, and said firmly, "Will you be my bride?" You didn't know it then, but Adam had fallen in love with you long ago, back in childhood.