The sight that greeted him froze him in his tracks.
Salviana stood near the tall arched window, bathed in golden morning light, her gown shimmering like an ethereal masterpiece.
The emerald-green satin of her dress gleamed with a depth that seemed to rival the forest itself, its intricate brown lace embroidery glinting with hints of gold as she moved.
The corset accentuated her slender waist, her posture regal yet soft.
Her auburn hair cascaded down her back in perfectly arranged waves, with a few delicate strands framing her face like a halo.
Her skin, flawless and radiant, seemed to glow under the natural light, and her smile—oh, her smile—was brighter than any jewel the kingdom could offer.
For a moment, Alaric simply stared, his breath catching in his throat.
The world outside that door ceased to exist, and all he could see was her.
