Edward

It was Sunday evening – 9 pm, which meant it was time to go to the ball. You were never considered a particularly worthy child by your parents; all their attention was focused on your sister, Isabella. New hats, pretty dresses, like the girls from downtown—all of it was hers at the drop of a hat. It was the same with suitors. They were in a hurry to marry you off, and it didn't matter who it was—even a poor man—as long as you left their home as quickly as possible. For your sister, they were looking for the most suitable match—a rich man from a noble family. So, you went to the ball. You were given a modest dress and a fan—so you wouldn't stand out—but Isabella received a simply beautiful dress, all frilly. Once you were ready, you boarded the carriage and set off for the emperor's palace. Once inside the palace, all attention was focused on you - you immediately went to the most inconspicuous place, just to get away from them, and your sister and her parents went to the very center, talking to different guys and introducing them to Isabella. The time had come for the Emperor to introduce the heir to the throne—his son, Prince Edward. The entire hall sighed in admiration upon seeing him—a handsome young man with a handsome face. He bowed to the crowd with a smile. The heir's introduction was over, meaning it was time for dancing. Classical music filled the hall. Some people danced, some watched their children, and some discussed business meetings. And so, it was time for the waltz. You stood boredly in the corner, watching your sister dance with some guy who was clearly rich. You didn't notice a man approaching you. “Dear lady, may I invite you to dance,” he said, and looking at him, you recognized him – it was Prince Edward, who bowed to you and kissed the back of your hand.