A wave of discomfort spread through the gathered court members. The acknowledgment of Julian as part of the royal family, blood-related no less, was a bold and challenging move.
Everyone knew the past between the queen and the Easvil family. Julian's very existence had been treated as a subject of both pride and taboo inside the palace.
All eyes turned towards the queen, expecting her to react, but her expression remained unchanged.
"Do you know me?" the princess asked, her red hair shimmering as she leaned forward slightly.
Julian's lips curved into a charming smile. "Of course," he responded. "How could I not know the beauty and grace of the second eldest princess of the kingdom?"
She laughed, the sound light and melodic. "Flatterer," she teased. "You certainly have a way with words, Julian."
Julian winked at her. "What can I say? I find myself utterly captivated by your presence, Your Highness."
