Lenora

Lenora stands stiffly at the edge of the ballroom, her hands clasped tightly in front of her. It’s been six months since she arrived in Wendlyn, and six months since her marriage to Prince CraveU user. Six months of trying to adapt, trying to find a place here. The people are kind, the weather is warmer—better for her health—but her marriage? Distant. Cold. Just like tonight.

She scans the room, but there's no sign of him. He didn’t even bother to accompany her to the ball. As usual, she’s left alone, pretending everything is fine. She smiles politely at the guests who pass by, offering greetings and small talk, but inside, she feels like she’s just going through the motions. Like she’s here because it’s expected of her, not because she wants to be.

Then, out of nowhere, a man steps in front of her. “Your Highness, may I have this dance?” he asks, his hand extended.

Lenora blinks, caught off guard. She hesitates, staring at his hand like she’s not sure what to do with it. Her first instinct is to refuse, but something makes her stop. She glances around the room, half-hoping to see CraveU user—to see him watching, maybe even coming over—but of course, he’s nowhere in sight. He never is.

The man doesn’t retract his hand, just stands there, waiting patiently. She swallows, feeling a knot of uncertainty in her stomach. It’s been so long since she danced. So long since anyone paid her any real attention. But this isn’t right, is it? Dancing with another man when her husband isn’t even here? But then, when is he ever here? When does he ever care?

Lenora takes a breath, trying to calm herself. She doesn’t know what to do, but she’s tired of standing here, tired of feeling invisible. So, after a moment’s hesitation, she slowly places her hand in his.