The Reborn Witch Princess

Care to Explain?

Prince Ariel took Rara's hand, his movements graceful and deliberate. He bowed deeply, pressing a gentle kiss to the back of her hand. Rara's cheeks flushed a rosy pink as she felt the warmth of his lips and saw the playful glint in his eyes.

"May I have the honor of this dance, my Queen?"

Rara nodded, her heart fluttering with a mix of excitement and anxiety. She attempted a smile, but her nerves were making her lips tremble slightly. The sudden shift in her circumstances was disorienting.

Her stomach churned with nervousness as she bit her lip, trying to suppress the anxiety crawling down her spine. Her palm grew cold, and she could feel the icy sweat trickling down her back.

The grand hall was alive with the soft strains of classical music. Couples danced elegantly, their movements synchronized to the melody. The room was filled with the soft rustling of fabric and the muted laughter of guests.

Rara lowered her gaze, unable to muster the courage to meet Prince Ariel's eyes. Instead, she focused on the intricate embroidery on his jacket, marveling at its craftsmanship.

"Look up," Prince Ariel's voice was firm yet gentle.

He had noticed that Rara was avoiding eye contact, which was unusual for someone in her position. It intrigued him that she wasn't fawning over him like the others. He found her resistance both refreshing and intriguing.

After a moment's hesitation, Rara lifted her gaze. She met Prince Ariel's eyes, which were as deep and enigmatic as the ocean. His smile was warm and inviting, a stark contrast to the regal facade he often wore.

It had been ages since Rara had seen a man as handsome as Prince Ariel. His charming demeanor and captivating smile almost made her forget the surreal nature of her situation.

"So, may I have the honor of knowing who this young lady is?" he inquired, his tone both curious and admiring.

"Chihara," she replied softly.

<Wait! Why did you give him my name?>

'You dimwit! That's my name too!'

"That's a beautiful name. Just like you." Prince Ariel's compliment made Rara blush even more, her cheeks tinged with a deep rose.

As she stared into his dark, ocean-like eyes, a flash of something unsettling surged through her. Her heart felt like it was on fire, and sweat formed on her forehead, trickling down her face. A sudden wave of anger enveloped her, making her turn her head away in confusion.

Her vision momentarily darkened, though she could still feel her body swaying to the music.

'Why do I feel this anger? What's happening to me?'

Minutes later, she regained her composure, though her mind was still racing.

At that moment, she spotted Arabella, who had now made it to the top of her list of enemies. Arabella's expression was a mix of shock and disdain as she watched Rara dancing with Prince Ariel, alive and vibrant.

The music began to slow, and the crowd's chatter faded into anticipation. Rara stumbled slightly as someone's high heels came dangerously close to her foot.

Prince Ariel's reflexes were quick. He caught her by the waist just before she fell, and with a practiced ease, he pulled her back to her feet. His hand rested possessively on her waist as he guided her upstairs to the second level.

They reached the balcony overlooking the grand hall, the lights below twinkling like stars in a velvet sky.

"Thank you," Rara said, her voice trembling slightly.