Prince Jackson had been in a sullen mood these days. Though he concealed it well behind a composed expression and quiet dignity, those closest to him could sense the heaviness that clung to his every step. This evening, the King had summoned the royal family for a formal dinner—a tradition meant to reaffirm unity, but tonight, it served more as a stage for political spectacle than familial warmth.
Everyone gathered at the long, opulent dining table, its surface gleaming under the crystal chandelier. Platters of exquisite cuisine were served, the clinking of cutlery providing the only music in the otherwise tense air.
As expected, many offered their congratulations to Prince Jackson on his upcoming wedding. With the discipline ingrained into him since childhood, Jackson accepted the well-wishes with practiced grace and a polite smile that never quite reached his eyes. Only those observant enough could tell—his heart was elsewhere.
