Chapter Two: Charming stranger.

Without waiting for Aurora's response, Elizabeth quickly approached Nicholas's location. Upon closer inspection, she realized that he was relatively young, likely around Arthur's age, and he was even more attractive than she had initially perceived.

Nicholas was left breathless upon the arrival of the stunning princess, and he could barely contain his delight as her dazzling smile nearly overwhelmed him with her exquisite appearance.

Hello, " She greeted him with a smile. " I'm..."

"Elizabeth," he chimed in with wonderment. "And you're the princess." He added with a smile now.

Elizabeth nodded. "And you're Nicholas ."

"How do you know me, your highness?" Surprised, he asked, gazing at her intently.

"I asked my brother."

"Is that so?" he said, slightly puzzled. "I am highly honored."

"Then, Would you care to join me for a dance?"

He was stunned by her inquiry.Who was he that the princess would ask to dance with him? And it was deemed inappropriate for a young lady to take the initiative in inviting a gentleman for a dance; it should be the other way around.

Confusedly, he cast a quick glance at her while she boldly and unrelentingly stared at him. He thought to himself that she was truly stunning. Without any hesitation, he accepted the princess's request and delicately grasped her hand. Politely, he inquired, "May I?" And before escorting her to the dance floor, he tenderly kissed her hand.

He grasped her slender waist while she tightly clung onto his broad shoulders with her hands. In perfect unison, they swayed to the melodious tunes of the violin that reverberated in the background.

You're a good dancer," he praised, gazing at her lovely eyes.

"And you're not bad either." With a smile she acknowledged his complement.

For a few minutes, they danced in silence without uttering a word. They chose to exchange silent messages through eye contact instead of speaking directly to each other. Elizabeth felt immense delight as she gazed into his charming eyes, becoming completely absorbed in their captivating depth. She had longed for a romantic moment like this for a very long time.

In contrast, Nicholas found his attention irresistibly drawn to her alluring and delectable lips, which alternated between parting and sealing as she gazed at him with affection. Without a doubt, he had already fallen for the princess.

Elizabeth quickly looked around and noticed that they were receiving a lot of attention. Although her parents were engaged in important discussions with notable people, she was aware that her mother's focus was solely on her.

"Are you interested in stepping out to the outdoor garden?" she inquired while flashing a smile at him.

With a courteous nod, he expressed his willingness. "It will be my pleasure, My lady," He bowed. He held her hand with a look of admiration as they went outside.

He was guided into an exquisite garden, where the strong fragrance of roses and the warm glow of candles illuminated the surroundings brilliantly. The garden was embellished with an assortment of lovely and aromatic flowers, ranging from lilies to roses and daisies.

Suddenly, her steps came to a halt as they approached the splendid apple tree.

"Wow, the stars are shining incredibly bright." Nicholas beamed while exclaiming. "Maybe it's because I'm with the most beautiful lady ever."

Elizabeth smiled so lovingly, saying, "You flatter me, but thank you, Nicholas."

They conversed further, familiarizing themselves with one another. Elizabeth learnt that Nicholas resided with his parents and hailed from a middle-class household . He had a passion for embarking on expeditions and occasionally he would partake in them by boarding a ship. Having visited various kingdoms, Nicholas had gained significant exposure.

Elizabeth informed him of her personal background and the experiences that come with residing in the role of a princess and her parents expectations of her future husband.

"I don't care about their opinion though," she stated, gazing intensely at him. "We can make this our secret spot."

"Are you sure, my lady?"

"Yes," she sighed. "As long as no one finds out."

After making some plans, Elizabeth suggested that Aurora would take on the role of mediator, facilitating communication between the both of them.

"It's late; I have to leave." She announced in a sad tone. Afterwards she leaned in and gave him a gentle peck on the lips while standing on her tip toes.

Nicholas was astonished and rendered speechless when he exclaimed, "My lady!" He had never before encountered a princess who was both youthful and audacious.

"You don't like it?" She wanted to know.

"It's not like that, I mean..." He stumbled over his words, leading her to chuckle at his discomposure.

He was taken aback by her charming smile and impulsively leaned in to give her a tender kiss on her luscious lips. As he intensified the kiss, she reciprocated with equal fervor and became fully absorbed in the moment.