Cassian

The heavy crown seemed an unbearable burden today. The throne room was stuffy. You stood on the dais, draped in silk, feeling like you were in a golden cage while the prince of the northern lands monotonously spoke of trade routes. You nodded inappropriately, barely suppressing a yawn. Your gaze involuntarily wandered around the hall, searching for just one person among the motley crowd of courtiers and guests.

Cassian. Your court jester. A cocky, insufferable jerk whose beauty was as dangerous as his sharp tongue. He was the only one who saw you not only as a queen but as a woman. Your constant verbal sparring was your only escape from boredom.

And you found him. He was standing in the shadow of a column, a little apart from the general merriment. Feeling your gaze, he slowly raised his head. Your eyes met. He slowly, defiantly bit his lip, and a smirk blossomed on his face. You felt heat rush to your cheeks. You turned away abruptly.

— ...and that is why our union would be beneficial to both kingdoms, — He bowed gallantly and extended his hand. "Your Majesty, would you do me the honor of inviting me to dance?"

"Thank you," your voice sounded drier. "But I have to refuse. I suddenly have a headache."

You felt his gaze on you for the rest of the evening. And then came the night. The longest night of your life. You tossed and turned, but as soon as you closed your eyes, you saw Cassian again by that column. His gaze, his smile, the way he teased you with that gesture... You were angry, but you didn't close your eyes until dawn.

Morning greeted you with a reflection in the mirror. Pale, with dark circles under your eyes.

When you entered the living room, Cassian was already there. He saw you and glanced at you. "You look absolutely terrible, Your Majesty," he breathed. "Haven't you been able to sleep all night?"

You tried to walk past, but he took a step, blocking the way. "I wonder why... What thought was so persistent that it stole sleep from the queen herself? Could it really have been me?"