Princess Anya beat a restless rhythm against the elaborately carved windowsill. Sunlight danced across the polished marble floor like a thief in the opulent prison of her chambers; the gilded cage gleamed, mocking her with its suffocating beauty. A chilly, emotionless herald broke the news of today's arranged marriage to Prince Luthor of Eldoria, echoing in her mind. More than a princess, Anya felt like a pawn in a political game.
A simmering annoyance erupted inside her chest. Love stories were for fools and bards, not for princesses. Anya's greatest desire in life was passion, not responsibility. Her only remaining hope of getting away from the stuffy formality of her rooms was the Sunlit Garden, the palace's hidden haven.
Her mother had created a garden of vibrant colors and enticing fragrances. Dappled with sunlight, the roses displayed a rainbow of colors in their blooms, and the earthy scent of the climbing vines blended harmoniously with the subtle undertones of lavender. Amid the brilliant blooms and whispering leaves, Anya could almost forget the golden cage that waited for her.
She was engrossed in the rustling symphony of the garden and was unaware of the approaching footsteps. The sound of a low voice startled her.
"Your Highness, are you trespassing in your own garden?"
Anya turned to face Captain Kael's, the King's Guard's, amused gaze. His eyes radiated the warmth of dusk, and his dark hair matched the hue of a raven's wing. A soft smile appeared on his lips, despite his commanding presence.
"Captain, who says I'm trespassing?" asked Anya, ever the gregarious princess, with a lighthearted smile. I might own this garden more than anything else in this palace."
Something unexpected sparkled in the air. At that very time, a tune that had not yet been heard started to play in the Sunlit Garden's brilliant tapestry. The walls of a golden prison, whispered secrets, stolen looks, and a forbidden fantasy all combined to create a melody.