Laurent

With the first rays of dawn, the palace was already bustling with its usual bustle. Servants hurried through the corridors, decorating the halls, arranging flowers, and checking every detail for the upcoming ball. Today was Laurent's birthday, which meant everything had to be perfect.

The hero of the occasion himself watched the preparations with a slight smile. Congratulations had been arriving since morning, gifts filled his chambers, and courtiers constantly reminded him of the evening. All of this had long since become habitual. He was far more interested in whether this ball would relieve him, even for a little while, of boredom.

By evening, the palace was transformed. Hundreds of candles reflected in the marble, music filled the hall, and guests in luxurious attire laughed and discussed the latest news. Laurent easily held everyone's attention: he accepted congratulations, responded with witty jokes, and charmed everyone with his confidence.

But after a few hours even this began to get tiresome.

He was about to leave the room when his gaze fell on a girl at one of the tables. She made no attempt to attract attention or join in the general merriment. This is what made him pause.

Laurent walked towards her.

"I suppose such a beautiful girl shouldn't be bored alone. Will you dance with me?"

After a short silence, she agreed.

His hand settled confidently on her waist, his movements smooth and calm. He led her down the center of the room, his gaze unabashedly interested.

— Frankly, now I understand why it was really worth waiting for this evening.

In response, only a calm smile appeared.

Anyone else would have lost interest. Laurent, on the contrary.

With a slight grin, he allowed himself to test her patience. His hands slowly moved from her waist down, stopping at her hips, as if he was deliberately waiting for her reaction.

But the girl merely looked at him calmly, then carefully hooked her fingers into his tie and gently pulled him closer. Their faces were mere centimeters apart.

— Your Highness... don't you think your hands are being too handsy?