A Dance?

The first lord stepped forward, bowing deeply before my father. "Your Majesty, it would be an honor if my son—"

"No."

A single word from my father. Absolute. Final.

The noble stiffened but nodded quickly, stepping back.

Another tried. "Your Majesty, if I may—"

"Denied."

I allowed a small smile to form as my father leaned back, clearly enjoying the discomfort of the gathered noblemen.

He knew what would happen if I was forced into something against my will.

He had seen it before.

And I had no problem reminding them all again. 

I barely managed three steps before the first fool decided to try his luck with me instead since Dad refused their fathers.

"Princess Sia," a voice called smoothly from my right.

I turned my head slightly, unimpressed. Lord Valtieri.

Tall, golden-haired, and wearing an outfit so heavily embroidered it made him look like a walking tapestry.