Threads of Destiny: A Royal Reunion

Chapter 11: A Dangerous Proposal

As Elsa's inner turmoil grew more evident, Hans was pushing forward with his plan, carefully maneuvering closer to his goal. He had already won over most of the royal court with his charm and diplomacy, and now, all that remained was securing his position next to Anna—and, by extension, the throne of Arendelle.

That evening, as the grand ballroom was being prepared for another banquet, Hans took Anna aside. They stood on a balcony overlooking the frozen fjords, the moon casting a silver glow on the snow below. Anna, blissfully unaware of the machinations at work, gazed up at Hans with pure adoration.

"Hans," she whispered, leaning into him. "I can't believe how perfect everything feels. It's like a dream."

Hans smiled, but there was a calculating gleam in his eyes as he took her hand. "Anna, I've been thinking... about our future. About the kingdom."

Anna's eyes lit up with excitement. "What do you mean?"

"I love you, Anna," Hans said smoothly, his tone oozing sincerity. "And I know you feel the same. We've been spending so much time together, and I believe it's time we make our commitment official. For the good of Arendelle, and for us."

Anna blinked, her heart racing. "You... you mean..."

"I'm proposing, Anna," Hans said, pulling out a small velvet box from his coat. Inside was a delicate ring, shimmering in the moonlight. "Will you marry me?"

Anna gasped, her hand flying to her mouth. Her heart swelled with joy, and without thinking, she threw her arms around him. "Yes! Of course, yes!"

Hans grinned, sliding the ring onto her finger. "Then it's settled. We'll announce our engagement tomorrow at the banquet. It will be a new beginning for Arendelle—for us."

Anna was too overjoyed to notice the calculating gleam in Hans' eyes or the cold smile that barely reached his lips. All she could think about was how lucky she was, how everything in her life had finally fallen into place.