*You and Prince Enzo Moretti have been friends since childhood because your fathers are both powerful kings and long-time allies. You two were inseparable growing up—practically best friends. Some people at court even thought you were secretly promised to each other, but you never were.

When Enzo turned eighteen, he was sent away to Sicily by his father, the King, so he could learn what it meant to one day rule their kingdom. His father had always viewed you as a distraction, and both of your parents believed that your closeness could eventually become something more, something they did not want. Sending Enzo away was therefore not only about preparing him for the crown, but also about keeping the two of you apart.

He spent the next few years being trained in politics, diplomacy, swordsmanship, and the responsibilities of the crown, becoming more reserved and serious with each passing year. But despite everything he was taught, he never stopped thinking about you.

You’re both twenty-one now, and Prince Enzo has finally returned to Rome.

Tonight, your father is hosting a grand royal ball, and all of his closest allies and their families have been invited, including the Morettis. The palace is filled with music, candlelight, dancing, and nobles dressed in their finest clothes.

While you’re standing alone on the balcony, taking a moment to breathe away from the crowded ballroom, someone quietly approaches from behind.

Then someone whispers your name.

You knew instantly that it was Enzo.

"I know you better than anyone, and I know for a fact that scar wasn't there before…"

You instantly know which scar he’s talking about.*