Chapter Text
Six-year-old Audrey stood in the shadows of the grand ballroom, her small hands anxiously fidgeting with the frilly edges of her pink dress. The shimmering chandelier hung overhead, casting glimmers of light that sparkled against the crowns and jewels adorned by the assembled royalty. Yet, to Audrey, it all felt cold and oppressive, like a heavy blanket that stifled her breath. She stood alone, her eyes darting about the open space, wary and alert.
Her grandmother’s voice from earlier that day rang in her ears: “I’m sure Audrey would make a lovely queen for your grandson.”
The words felt like chains tightening around her heart. She had overheard enough conversations and caught enough calculating glances, even at this tender age, to understand what that meant. Her grandmother was preparing to trade her away like a prized mare, all in the pursuit of power and influence. Her parents were too engrossed in their far-off adventures, blissfully unaware or, perhaps, uncaring about the web of expectations that was tightening around their daughter.
As Audrey surveyed the room, dread settled in her stomach. Her gaze landed on various young princes. There was Chad Charming, his loud laughter ringing through the air as he boasted about his latest fencing match with his grandfather nodding alongside him, pride etched on his face. Chad's bright eyes and expansive hand gestures momentarily lifted her spirits before they fell again, dull and lifeless. Then there was Prince Aziz of Agrabah, leaning against a marble column, his gaze distant and aloof, seemingly oblivious to the elegant chaos around him.
But then... her eyes found him. Prince Benjamin stood apart from the fray of cheerful chatter, his kind hazel eyes scanning the room with a calmness that radiated warmth. When a servant stumbled nearby, almost dropping their tray of sparkling goblets, Ben was the first to lurch forward, his expression shifting from serene observation to genuine concern. He steadied the young man with a reassuring hand and offered a gentle smile that lit up the dim hall. Audrey felt her heart skip a beat. He was good. He was kind.
He wouldn’t hurt her.
Taking a deep breath, she stepped into the flickering light. Her heart pounded in her chest, and she could feel her palms growing clammy. This was her moment – her only way of gaining control over her destiny. Her grandmother would accept Ben—she had to!
“Hello, Prince Benjamin,” Audrey said, her voice barely above a whisper as she dropped into a small curtsy, her dress swirling around her like a protective cloud.
Ben turned his head, and his smile widened as he recognized her.
“Princess Audrey! It’s good to see you. Are you enjoying the ball?” His tone was rich with genuine interest, and she could feel the warmth radiating from him.
“Oh, yes,” she replied, summoning all her courage to lie smoothly. As she gathered her thoughts, she added, her voice stronger, “I was wondering if you’d like to take a turn about the garden with me? The night-blooming jasmine should be lovely right now.”
Surprise lit up Ben’s face, quickly transforming into delight.
“That sounds wonderful. I’d be honored,” he said, bowing his head slightly.
As they walked away from the glamour and noise of the ballroom, the tension in Audrey's shoulders began to ease. She glanced sideways at Ben, who walked with a steady grace, his demeanor relaxed and open. He listened intently as she spoke about her favorite flowers—their colors, fragrances, and the little secrets she had learned about them over the years.
“How fascinating!” Ben said, leaning closer, his eyes widening in sincere curiosity. “Did you know that jasmine blooms only at night to attract specific pollinators?”
As they wandered deeper into the fragrant garden, enveloped by the sweet scent of jasmine blossoms, Audrey felt a sense of peace washing over her. She made her decision. Ben was kind. He listened.
“Ben,” she said softly, her heart racing as she used his familiar name for the first time. “Have you ever thought about... about betrothals?”
Ben paused mid-step, his brow furrowing in thought.
“I suppose I have, a little. It’s expected of us, isn’t it?” he responded, his voice thoughtful yet light.
Looking into his eyes, Audrey nodded earnestly, trying to convey the weight of her feelings.
“What if… what if you and I were betrothed? We get along well, and it would unite our kingdoms.” Each word felt like she was taking slow steps toward the edge of a cliff.
She held her breath, her heart pounding in her chest as she watched for his reaction. A moment of contemplation passed, and then Ben’s smile returned, brighter than before.
“You know, that’s not a bad idea at all, Audrey. We do get along, and I enjoy your company.” His tone was warm, reassuring. “Should we speak to our parents about it?”
Relief flooded through Audrey, a lightness blossoming in her chest. She had done it! She was safe.
“Yes,” she said, a genuine smile breaking across her face. “Let’s do that.”
As they made their way back toward the ballroom, the soft glow of the chandeliers glittering like stars above them, Audrey allowed herself a small moment of triumph. While she might not have Ben’s love—yet—she had his kindness, his protection. For now, that would have to be more than enough.