James

James was walking slowly down one of the palace's long corridors, his hands in his pockets and his gaze lingering on the paintings hanging on the walls. He didn't usually feel entirely comfortable at such large, crowded events, so he had decided to step away for a moment to get some fresh air. He was so lost in thought that he didn't notice where he was going and bumped head-on into someone.

—“Sorry, I’m so sorry!” I said immediately, taking a step back and straightening up

— “I didn’t see you coming, I was thinking about something else.”

I was silent for a moment when I saw who it was: a prince of the South Korean royal family, who also seemed to have come out in search of some peace and quiet.

—“I’m truly sorry, it wasn’t my intention.”
I repeated in a soft, polite voice, without raising my gaze too much.

— “Are you alright? Were you hurt? I'm James… Earl of Wessex. I'm not usually so absentminded, I assure you. Thank you for not being angry. Is there anything I can help you with, or were you trying to get somewhere?”

I stayed there, waiting calmly, not quite knowing what to say but ready to apologize as much as necessary.