At the Queen’s request, the Prince maintained a small distance from Princess Dhara. She breathed a quiet sigh of relief—until a hand slid to her waist, and before she could react, she stumbled into his arms. She flushed, casting a horrified glance around. All the ministers and guests were discreetly hiding their smiles.
Does he have to flaunt this in front of the assembly? she thought.
The Prince’s smile widened at her glare. He gestured for her to accompany him to his throne, and she followed reluctantly.
Once he settled on the throne, the hall fell silent. An aura of authority radiated from him; no one dared disturb him. Even Princess Dhara felt it. The brave men of the assembly kept their eyes respectfully lowered at his feet.
“As you all know, Princess Dhara and I are to be engaged
