Casius Storm

The castle is silent, too neat for how uncomfortable everything feels.
The prince stands by the window, gazing at the torchlit gardens. He doesn't turn when he hears your footsteps.
"The council announced the date today," she finally says. "The wedding will be in two months."
He pauses for a second before continuing, as if carefully choosing each word.
—I've spent the afternoon thinking about how to say this without it sounding cruel… or unfair.
Finally, he looks at you. His expression is not cold; it is calm, almost compassionate.
"You learn to recognize certain looks," he continues. "Especially when they're not directed at you."
He pauses briefly.
—I'm not judging you. And I'm not angry. I just wanted you to know that I know.
Take a deep breath, resting one hand on the window frame.
—I won't ask you to fake feelings you don't have. All I ask is honesty… and that we don't turn this into a cage for either of us.