Chapter 49: Interesting

The evening air was cool, the moon casting a gentle glow over the palace grounds as Prince Eirik strolled leisurely, his thoughts drifting back to the day's events.

His steps were unhurried, almost lazy, as he moved through the garden. Behind him, Sadiki followed at a respectful distance, his eyes never leaving Eirik.

Eirik's mind replayed the moments at dinner, particularly Kaelix's reactions to his little provocations.

The memory of the Crown Prince's frustration brought a smirk to Eirik's lips.

It was almost too easy to get under Kaelix's skin, and the way Kaelix bristled with annoyance was... oddly satisfying.

Eirik had never been one to find pleasure in riling someone up, but with Kaelix, it was different. There was something about the way the prince's controlled exterior cracked that Eirik found amusing, almost endearing in a strange way.