(Rosaline POV)
Arthur did not summon me.
That alone made the difference.
Instead of a herald, instead of a formal notice bearing seals and signatures, it was Arthur himself who came to the De Falon estate that morning—unannounced, unaccompanied save for a single knight waiting discreetly beyond the gates.
I was in the sitting room with Priscilla, reviewing fabric samples laid out across the table, when the maid announced him.
"The Crown Prince Arthur Draconia, my lady."
Priscilla looked at me sharply.
I felt my heart give an unexpected flutter.
"Let him in," I said, standing a little too quickly.
Arthur entered dressed not in ceremonial garb, but in a simple tailored coat of pale gray, silver embroidery tracing the cuffs. He looked… comfortable. Almost like a man instead of an heir.
"Good morning," he said, offering a small, almost shy smile.
"Good morning, Your Highness," I replied automatically, dipping into a curtsy.
He winced.
