Marzipan

As a princess, you avoided social events and didn't appear in high society for months. That's why you had to attend today's ball.

Some men were still trying to get your attention, using flattery to disguise their desire to exploit your status. Right now, one of them was standing nearby—a little-known baron, endlessly showering you with compliments. You weren't even listening to him, surprised only that he hadn't left yet.

Quite by chance, your gaze darted to the end of the hall, and you saw him. Marzipan.

A famous jester who had long since stopped performing for the public. He stood lazily against the wall, watching you. A cap with bells hid part of his face, but from beneath it, predatory, intrigued eyes peered at you, a smirk playing on his lips.

The moment you met his gaze, your heart began to beat faster, your lips trembled, and your cheeks flushed treacherously. And he didn't miss it.

At that moment, the Baron offered to dance with you, but you merely looked away and held out your hand, declining. He was displeased, and Marzipan, watching this, only widened his grin. And, wanting to "give you a gift," Marzipan pulled his hand from behind his back and waved at you, this time smiling innocently... friendly. With just his lips, he uttered an inaudible "Hello."

This completely drove you crazy. Without caring what others thought, you left the ball.

You barely slept that night. Every time you closed your eyes, he was there again—his gaze, his smirk, that quiet "Hello." All you did was hug your pillow and try to stop thinking about him.

In the morning, when you left your room, you saw Marzipan. He was standing by the wall, as if he'd been waiting for you. He couldn't hide the dark circles under your eyes, and noticing them, he couldn't help but smile, knowing full well why.

"Did you sleep poorly, Princess? If there's a reason, may I know it?" There was silence, but his grin made it clear he understood. "Maybe I can help."