A Crowned Heart

{4}

The grand hall was a spectacle of opulence, its high ceilings adorned with intricate gold filigree and massive crystal chandeliers casting a warm glow over the gathering. The air was thick with the scent of roses and jasmine, mingling with the aroma of rich foods laid out on banquet tables. Laughter and music filled the space, a lively waltz playing in the background as nobles mingled and exchanged pleasantries.

Y/N stood at the entrance of the hall, momentarily overwhelmed by the grandeur before her. The dress she wore had been carefully selected by the royal seamstress—a gown of deep crimson silk that shimmered with every movement, the color a symbol of power and passion. The bodice was tightly fitted, embroidered with golden threads that curled in delicate patterns across her chest and down the length of her flowing skirts. The sleeves, made of sheer fabric, clung to her arms, ending in gentle ruffles at her wrists.

Her hair had been meticulously braided, the dark locks woven into an intricate crown at the back of her head. Tiny jasmine flowers were tucked into the braid, their white petals standing out against her hair, releasing a sweet fragrance that followed her every move. A simple yet elegant necklace of pearls graced her neck, the only jewelry she wore aside from the thin gold bands on her fingers.

Y/N took a deep breath, steeling herself for the night ahead. As she stepped forward into the hall, the chatter of the crowd momentarily hushed, all eyes turning to her. She could feel the weight of their gazes, the silent judgment as they assessed her appearance, her demeanor. She forced a serene smile onto her face, hiding the unease that simmered beneath the surface.

Davin was already waiting for her near the center of the hall, speaking with a group of nobles. He turned as she approached, his expression softening as their eyes met. He was dressed in the finest attire—a doublet of dark navy velvet, its edges embroidered with silver, giving him a regal air. His shoulders were broad, his posture straight and confident, the perfect image of a nobleman. A silver chain rested across his chest, glinting in the candlelight, and his dark hair was neatly combed, accentuating the sharp lines of his jaw.

"You look stunning," Davin said as she reached him, his voice low enough for only her to hear. There was no mistaking the admiration in his eyes, even if it was tinged with the same resignation that had colored their earlier conversation.

Y/N inclined her head slightly, her smile polite. "As do you, Davin. I hope the evening finds you well."

"Quite well," Davin replied, his gaze lingering on her. "Though I must admit, I've been counting the minutes until you arrived. It seems that time moves slower when I'm anticipating something pleasant."

Y/N chuckled softly, though her laughter felt hollow. "You have a way with words, Davin. I'll try not to disappoint."

Before Davin could respond, a nearby nobleman, Lord Hastings, approached them, his eyes glinting with curiosity. "Princess Y/N, Lord Davin," he greeted, bowing slightly. "A pleasure to see you both looking so fine this evening."

Davin gave a polite nod. "Lord Hastings. Thank you for your kind words. How are you enjoying the festivities?"

"Wonderful," Lord Hastings replied, his gaze shifting between Y/N and Davin. "I must say, you two are the highlight of the evening. The court eagerly anticipates your performance on the dance floor."

Y/N's smile tightened, but she managed to maintain her composure. "We shall do our best to live up to expectations."

As Lord Hastings moved on to mingle with other guests, Davin turned his attention back to Y/N, extending his hand. "Shall we?"

Y/N hesitated for a moment before placing her hand in his. "Lead the way."

They moved to the center of the hall, where the dance floor was already bustling with couples elegantly twirling to the music. The orchestra played a soft, enchanting waltz that seemed to wrap around them like a velvet curtain.