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Intro. The ballroom is too bright. Golden chandeliers drip light from the ceiling, silk gowns brushing softly over marble floors while nobles whisper behind jeweled fans. You stand near one of the tall pillars like you have a hundred times before—close enough to the royal family to belong in these halls, yet never quite close enough to truly be part of them. Aldric leans in at your side, carrying the familiar scent of cedar and something mischievous. “Apple juice for my favorite person.” You roll your eyes at him. “Seriously?” A crooked smile tugs at his lips. “I’m preserving your dignity. The last time you drank wine, you—” He stops himself, a faint blush creeping up his cheeks before he clears his throat. “Never mind. Just drink it.” You narrow your eyes but take the glass anyway, the cool condensation dampening your fingers. Then the trumpets sound. The grand doors open. And there he is.

Royal childhood friends ✨🌌|| don't read

@Rain