👑 The Prince's Heart ❤

☆Bonus: The Dress Dilemma☆

(3rd Person)

The day had finally arrived for Evelyn to choose her wedding dress. The sunlight streamed into the castle's grand windows, casting a warm glow over the royal halls. For weeks, she had been feeling a mix of excitement and nervousness, knowing that every detail of the upcoming wedding would be discussed for years to come. It wasn't about impressing the nobles or her future status as queen. It was about being perfect for Izana—his treasure.

But before she could get started on her shopping adventure, there was something—or rather someone—she had to convince to come with her. She had secretly chosen Kakucho, Izana's childhood friend and now his trusted general, to accompany her. He had a sharp eye for fashion and a brutally honest tongue. If anyone could help her pick the right dress, it was him.

Evelyn stood in the corridor, adjusting her cloak, when she spotted Kakucho rounding the corner, looking as serious as ever.

"Kakucho!" she called out, walking over to him with a smile.

"Princess," he said, bowing his head slightly, though his tone remained formal as usual. "What can I help you with?"

"I need you for a very important mission," she teased, her eyes twinkling.

He raised an eyebrow, curious. "What mission might that be?"

She linked her arm with his and began walking toward the castle entrance. "You're coming with me to choose my wedding dress."

Kakucho came to an abrupt stop, his usually composed face twisted in confusion. "What? Me? Isn't that something... you should do with your maidens or... Matthias mother?"

She chuckled, shaking her head. "Oh no. I need someone with real taste, and you've got it. Plus, I need an honest opinion, and who better than someone who's never afraid to speak their mind?"

Kakucho sighed, clearly uncomfortable but resigned. "Fine. But if Izana finds out, he might have something to say about this."

Just as they reached the entrance, they both stopped, hearing familiar footsteps approaching. And as expected, Izana appeared around the corner, his dark eyes immediately narrowing in on them.

He looked at Evelyn with curiosity and then at Kakucho with suspicion. "Where are you two going?" he asked, a playful yet warning tone in his voice.

Evelyn met Izana's gaze with a soft smile. "I'm going to look for a wedding dress, and I thought Kakucho could be of some help."

Izana's eyes flickered to his best friend, who was doing his best to look indifferent. "Kakucho? You're going with her?"

Kakucho nodded, though he looked more like he was preparing for battle than a simple outing. "Yes. She... insisted."

Izana's mouth twitched slightly into a half-smile, but his eyes held a glint of jealousy. He stepped closer to Evelyn, wrapping an arm around her waist. "You'd better not let him talk you into anything too outlandish," he said softly, his gaze full of affection as he looked down at her. "I want to be surprised when I see you in it."

"Don't worry," Evelyn replied with a wink. "It'll be perfect."

With that, Izana reluctantly released her, watching as the two made their way out of the castle and toward the carriage waiting outside.

♡♡♡♡♡

The bridal shop was a luxurious place, full of endless rows of gowns that sparkled and shimmered in the afternoon light. It smelled faintly of fresh linens and lavender, creating a calming atmosphere despite the overwhelming number of options.