Aurian

Eleanor sat in the grand hall, waiting for the arrival of Duke Blackmoore and his son, Aurian. Her heart raced, not from excitement, but from the overwhelming memories of her past life. She knew what was coming, and she had to stay strong.

The doors opened, and in walked the Duke, followed by Aurian. Even at fourteen, Aurian's presence was magnetic. His dark hair and sharp eyes hadn't changed. Seeing him again stirred feelings Eleanor had buried long ago.

"Princess Eleanor," the Duke greeted, bowing slightly.

"Your Grace," she responded politely, her eyes quickly drifting to Aurian.

Aurian stepped forward, a small, charming smile on his lips. "Princess," he said smoothly, his voice carrying a hint of playfulness.

Eleanor nodded, trying to keep her composure. "Aurian."

As the Duke began discussing matters with her father, Aurian leaned in slightly, his tone low but teasing. "It's been a while since we last saw each other. Have you missed me?"

Eleanor's heart tightened. His flirtation was familiar, but it felt like a dagger now. She forced a smile, masking the turmoil inside. "I've been quite busy."

Aurian chuckled softly, his gaze lingering on her. "Too busy to think of me?"

She looked away, pretending to focus on the garden view outside. "Perhaps."

He moved closer, lowering his voice even more. "You know, you're even more stunning than I remember."

Eleanor's breath hitched. She wanted to fall into the old patterns, to let herself feel the love she once had for him. But she couldn't. Not this time. "Flattery will get you nowhere, Aurian."

He grinned, clearly enjoying the game. "I don't believe that for a second."

The Duke's conversation ended, and it was time for them to leave. Aurian gave her one last smile, his eyes lingering on hers. "Until next time, Princess."

As they walked away, Eleanor's hands clenched into fists. She could still feel the pull toward him, but she knew better now. No matter how much her heart ached, she couldn't let herself fall for him again. She couldn't repeat the same mistakes.

I won't let my feelings control me this time, she vowed silently. No matter how much it hurts.

The moment the doors closed behind them, Eleanor exhaled sharply, her mind racing. She needed to clear her thoughts before her father noticed her turmoil.

"Eleanor, are you all right?" her father asked, his voice laced with concern.

She forced a smile, turning to face him. "Yes, Father. Just a bit tired."

He studied her for a moment, then nodded. "You've been through a lot lately. Perhaps some rest would do you good."

"Thank you," she replied, her voice steady despite the storm inside her.

As she retreated to her chambers, memories from her past life surged forward. Aurian had always been her weakness. His charm, his wit, the way he made her feel seen and cherished it had all been a facade. She remembered the betrayal, the heartbreak, and the consequences that had followed.

No, she reminded herself, I won't let history repeat itself.

The next morning, Eleanor awoke with a renewed sense of purpose. She couldn't avoid Aurian forever, but she could control her reactions to him. She had to stay vigilant, to guard her heart and focus on the future.

As she prepared for the day, a knock at her door interrupted her thoughts. "Come in," she called.

Her maid entered, carrying a small, intricately wrapped package. "This arrived for you, Princess."

Eleanor's brow furrowed as she accepted the package. She carefully unwrapped it, revealing a delicate, silver bracelet adorned with tiny sapphires. A note was tucked inside.

For the Princess who shines brighter than any jewel. Until we meet again.

No signature was needed. She knew it was from Aurian.

Her grip tightened on the note, her emotions swirling. Despite the beautiful gift, she couldn't let herself be swayed. She set the bracelet aside, her resolve hardening.

If Aurian thought he could charm his way back into her life, he was mistaken. She had learned from her past, and she wouldn't be fooled again.

Eleanor took a deep breath, standing tall. This time, she would be the one in control.