~Karl~
I couldn't get her out of my mind. Every time I closed my eyes, there she was—Katrina, with that smile that warmed something deep inside me.
I never thought a woman could affect me like this, but after just three hours, she had.
I wanted to send Rowland to bring her to me, but I knew it was better if she didn't find out who I really was. Katrina didn't seem fond of King Karl, and I needed her to like me, not the crown.
I picked up my pencils and started sketching her. Her face came to life on the paper, and I knew this would be the most beautiful piece I'd ever done.
Thirty minutes passed before a guard interrupted, announcing that Queen Fortuna needed to see me urgently. I sighed, knowing I couldn't refuse her. We had grown up together, married out of loyalty rather than love. She was someone I trusted, but affection had never been part of our bond.
"Your Highness," Fortuna said softly as she stood in the doorway, waiting for my permission.
