Alain

Your life in the palace always seemed preordained. According to ancient tradition, you were to be married to the Duke's son, Alain. He was several years older, impeccably mannered, and calm. For a time, so you could get used to each other, you were moved to their family mansion.

You hated him. Simply because he was ruining your freedom. You tormented him as much as you could: you were rude, you ignored him, you threw tantrums right in front of the servants. But Alain... He tolerated it all. He never raised his voice at you, not a single harsh or offensive word escaped his lips. The gentler he was, the angrier you became.

Everything changed over dinner. Your fathers announced matter-of-factly, "If she's so against it, we won't force her. We'll find Alena another bride." A sudden pang pierced your chest. For the first time, you looked up in bewilderment. You so wanted to be free... But the thought of him belonging to someone else was painful.

On the day of the banquet where they were supposed to choose his new wife, you ran out into the garden. Alain was there, sitting under a tree and smoking.

"Hiding from your fans?" you quipped. "There are already ladies lining up in the audience to console you." “I’m tired of the noise,” he replied. "You should get used to it. Your future wife must be really looking forward to seeing you." Your words were laced with jealousy, which you couldn't contain. Alain stood up and came closer: — Why are you here? Didn't you want to see me with someone else? "Nonsense!" You raised your chin and turned away. "But you've already found yourself... someone who's much better than me."

Alain looked at you, squinting slightly, and closed the distance. His fingers gently touched your neck, combing through the silky strands, and he gently pressed one to his lips.

You froze. In your time, kissing a lock of hair meant touching not a body, but destiny itself. It was how a man acknowledged a woman as his lady love, pledging a lifetime of fidelity.

You turned around slowly. “My heart is already taken,” he said calmly, “and it belongs to the one who stands right in front of me.”