A dance for two

The grand ballroom of the royal estate shimmered under the light of crystal chandeliers, the soft hum of chatter blending with the elegant notes of a string quartet. Nani stood at the edge of the crowd, dressed impeccably in a deep blue suit that perfectly complemented his sharp features. He looked every bit the royal he was, but his eyes held a faint hint of longing.

It was his cousin’s ball, an extravagant affair filled with officials, dignitaries, and aristocrats. Though he was here as an honored guest, Nani couldn’t help but notice the couples gracefully twirling on the dance floor.

“You know,” Sky’s voice broke through his thoughts, “if you keep looking like that, you’re going to have every person in this room lining up to dance with you.”

Nani turned to his bodyguard, who was leaning casually against a nearby pillar. Sky was dressed in a tailored black suit, but the open collar and lack of a tie gave him his usual relaxed air.

“Don’t be ridiculous,” Nani replied, rolling his eyes.

“I’m serious,” Sky said with a teasing grin. “You’re the most handsome person here. If I weren’t on duty, I’d probably be first in line.”

Nani blinked, caught off guard by the compliment. A faint blush crept up his neck, but he quickly masked it with a scoff. “You really are a ridiculous puppy.”

Sky’s grin widened. “And yet, you keep me around.”

Before Nani could retort, an official approached him, bowing respectfully before pulling him into a conversation about policies and trade agreements. Sky stepped back, silently observing as Nani’s demeanor shifted effortlessly into his princely role.

The night dragged on, and though Nani smiled and engaged with everyone who approached him, Sky couldn’t help but notice the brief glances he cast toward the dance floor.

By the time they returned to the castle, Nani was unusually quiet. He mumbled a brief “goodnight” before disappearing into his room.

---

It was well past midnight when Sky stood outside Nani’s room, debating whether or not to knock. The faint light seeping under the door suggested the prince was still awake, but what spurred Sky on was the memory of the soft pout on Nani’s lips as he left the ball.

Sky hated that look.

Taking a deep breath, he pushed the door open, finding Nani lying on his bed in red silk nightwear, his back turned toward the door.

“Sky?” Nani mumbled groggily. “What are you doing here?”

“You looked miserable,” Sky said bluntly, walking over to the bed. “I have a solution.”

Before Nani could protest, Sky grabbed his wrist and pulled him out of bed.

“What are you—Sky, stop! I’m tired!” Nani protested, trying to free himself.

Sky smirked over his shoulder. “Trust me. You’ll thank me for this.”

He dragged Nani down the hall and into the castle’s music room. The grand piano gleamed under the moonlight streaming through the tall windows.

“Sky, are you insane?” Nani whispered harshly. “If someone hears us—”

“They won’t,” Sky interrupted, walking over to a panel on the wall. “The room’s soundproof. No one will hear a thing.”

Nani crossed his arms, glaring. “This better be good.”

Sky grinned as he activated the music system, and the soft waltz from the ball began to play. Turning back to Nani, he extended a hand, bowing slightly. “May I have this dance, Your Highness?”

Nani stared at him, dumbfounded. “You can’t be serious.”

“Dead serious,” Sky said, stepping closer. “You wanted to dance, didn’t you? Well, here’s your chance.”

Nani hesitated, his cheeks flushing. “I can’t dance alone.”

Sky’s grin softened into something more genuine as he stepped forward, his hand hovering near Nani’s waist. “Then I’ll be your partner.”

Before Nani could object, Sky placed one hand gently on his hip and took his hand with the other. Nani, caught off guard, rested his free hand on Sky’s shoulder, letting himself be led.

The music swelled, and Sky guided Nani across the room with surprising grace.

“You’re good at this,” Nani admitted reluctantly, his gaze avoiding Sky’s.

“Told you I have my talents,” Sky said, smirking. “Still think I’m a stupid puppy?”

Nani chuckled softly, a smirk playing on his lips. “Oh, I definitely still think that.”

Sky feigned a hurt look, his lips curving into a dramatic pout. “You wound me, Your Highness.”

Nani burst into laughter, the sound light and genuine, echoing through the room. “Stop making that face! You look ridiculous.”

“That’s the point,” Sky said, his own smile breaking through. “I like seeing you laugh.”

The banter continued as they danced, their movements becoming more fluid, their laughter filling the space. Nani couldn’t remember the last time he had felt so at ease.

But as the music slowed, something shifted. Their steps faltered, and their eyes met.

For a moment, neither of them spoke. Sky’s hand tightened slightly on Nani’s hip, and Nani’s fingers curled against Sky’s shoulder.

“You’re not as bad as I thought,” Nani said softly, breaking the silence.

“Neither are you,” Sky replied, his voice just as quiet.

The air between them felt heavy with something unspoken, their heartbeats syncing as they swayed to the fading notes of the song.

But then the music stopped, and the moment dissolved.

“Well,” Nani said, stepping back and straightening his nightwear, “I suppose even a puppy can have his moments.”

Sky chuckled, his playful demeanor returning. “And even a cat can let loose every now and then.”

They exchanged smirks before heading back to Nani’s room. As Nani slipped under the covers, Sky lingered at the door.

“Goodnight, Your Highness,” Sky said, his voice softer than usual.

“Goodnight, Sky,” Nani replied, his tone matching the warmth.

As the door closed, both men found themselves lying awake, their thoughts circling back to the dance and the way their hearts had seemed to move as one. Neither of them dared to name the feeling just yet, but deep down, they both knew something had changed.