#Chapter 247: The Grand Ball

As we approached the grand ballroom, the anticipation swirled around me like a whirlwind, my heart pounding with a mixture of excitement and nerves. The towering doors stood before us, and just outside, the King and Queen awaited our entrance. Prince Alexander, who was currently the picture of confidence, led me forward with a reassuring smile. "Are you ready?" "Not really," I admitted. "I don't want to go in there." Prince Alexander chuckled softly, his warm gaze meeting mine. "You'll be fine, Shana. Just remember to breathe." "That's easy for you to say," I replied. "You're probably used to this." Alex shook his head, a wry smile playing on his lips. "Trust me, Shana, I still get nervous every now and then. But it helps to have someone by your side and a mask covering half of your face." I took a deep breath, steeling myself for what lay ahead, and nodded. "Wait, won't people get the wrong idea if I show up with you arm in arm?" "Let them. It's not every day t