The grand ballroom shimmered with a dazzling mix of colors and lights. The orchestra played a lively tune, and around them, the elite of the Luminaris Kingdom moved in a synchronized tide, their laughter and whispered conversations merging seamlessly with the melody. For a moment, people forgot about their sneaky politics as they lost themselves in their dance.
Edward didn't answer Lucy immediately. He looked at her outstretched hand, then lifted his gaze to meet her eyes. The silence lingered just long enough for the Princess's confident smile to falter, if only by a fraction. Then, with the same fluid grace that had defined his entire evening, he extended his own gloved hand.
Lucy's smile returned, even brighter. She put her hand in his, ready for what was next.
