THIS IS A PRESENT FOR MY BEST FRIEND DONT READ IT

Elise's POV
The eve before 1798 was one I can't forget.

1797 was coming to a close. The palace doors opened to the nobles in an evening of celebration.

I always hated my position. 4th in line for the throne, constantly in my siblings shadow.

I stood in the garden, both of my uncomfortable shoes in my hand. It was the heart of winter and yet my skin had the warmth of a few glasses of wine to protect itself. France gets cold in the winter.

And then I saw him.

Stood in the palace kitchen, cooking something, and chatting to one of the other chefs, I never understood what it meant for a man to be beautiful until that moment. Everything about him- his dark skin, his kind eyes, and most of all, his cheeky grin- was incredible.

He looked up through the window and must have seen my flushed face as he winked and waved. I found myself giggling.

Then, he disappeared. The rest of the night continued.

I was about ready for going to bed, when I felt a presence besides me.

"Hi." His voice was soft. He was even more beautiful up close. "Sorry. I noticed you watching me earlier."

"Oh, sorry if I put you off."

"No worries. Women like you are worth it."

His name is Bobby. He's been a chef here since he was old enough to work. I had just never looked close enough. I rarely speak to those who work for my family. The gardener sometimes updates me on his wife and daughter, but that's the extent of it. I don't even know his name. But for once, I'm so grateful I finally opened my eyes.

I'm snapped out of my daydream by my father's voice.

"Elise! Are you listening?'

"Technically, um, nah."

"We said... you're going to marry Prince Rocco of Spain."

tO Be cOnTinUeD