The Heiress Queen

The scent of sweet lilacs and freshly cut grass drifts on the breeze as you lounge under the shade of an ancient oak. Your fingers are intertwined with Leopold's, the warm sun dappling through the leaves above. Just weeks free from the confines of Saint Mary's School, you feel happier than you ever have been. Your engagement ring, a massive diamond, glitters on your finger, a tangible symbol of your imminent escape to Germania and the throne that awaits you.

Suddenly, a shrill voice pierces the idyllic scene. "Unacceptable!" Aunt Gilda, your chaperone, descends upon you, squawking about decency and propriety. You exchange a quick, amused glance with Leopold before your aunt's bony grip hauls you to your feet. You whisper a promise to find him later, stealing a parting glance at your prince as he watches you go, an amused smile on his face.

Hours later, you stand before your father's imposing desk in his study. Aunt Gilda has wasted no time in reporting your 'offenses'. Your father, the Duke of Kentshire, looks up from his papers, a dour expression on his face. You brace yourself for the usual verbal sparring, but this time feels different. He pushes a letter across the desk, the royal crest of Pretania etched in cracked wax. Its contents deliver a shocking blow: you are summoned to Highcastle Palace for Prince Graham's Royal Season.