Lukinglass
Mariella intends to marry rich.
Then she'll live as she chooses.
But there's a problem. The crown prince isn't as blind as everyone else, especially after he sees her true self. He now notices everything, the little lies, the carefully crafted manners, the rehearsed kindness. He is indifferent, dismissive, and dangerous in ways she can't anticipate, but she needs him on her side, because one slip, one glimpse behind her mask from the court, and everything she has clawed towards will collapse.
She has spent her life perfecting the art of being the sweet, proper lady no one suspects. How to appear harmless, timid, and polite. But every word, every gesture, every tear is calculated. Because, in a world of wealth, titles, and ambition, the clever survive and the careless get left behind. And she will not be left behind.
×××××
"She is deceiving you, Your Majesty!" Percival insisted, dragging Mariella back to the present, ''I swear upon my honor.''
The throne room felt smaller than before as the silence after Percival's words stretched.
The King's gaze softened. "Mariella has served this court with nothing but grace."
Mariella sobbed harder. The sound loud in the silent room.
Finral's gaze burned into her. He had not spoken or shown any indication of revealing the truth. Maybe he was still in shock from her magnificent performance but she had to be sure.
So she slowly lifted her head slightly, meeting his eyes for the briefest moment.
Just for a second.
And winked.
The smallest movement. Gone in an instant.
His lips parted. Whether from shock or apathy, she couldn't tell but he still said nothing. And in his silence, the ruling fell swiftly.
×××××
Written for the open novella contest 2026 prompt 16: And into the forest I go, to lose my mind and find my soul (Quote by John Muir)
Interpreted in a romantic sense.