Two households both alike in dignity.
In fair Verona, where we lay our scene.
From ancient grudge break to new mutiny,
where civil blood makes civil hands unclean.
From forth the fatal loins of these two foes
a pair of star-crossed lovers
are ripped from mortal life.

‘Tis not the tale of Romeo and Juliet I tell to thee. For another pair of hearts weigh equally as heavy in strife and sorrow, if not more. One, determined to protect his fair cousin and House Capulet, the other, swept away by princely duty yet bound by friendship with House Montague. In the space betwixt, they meet where none exist but them. Where none know the love they bear for one another.
Alas, love alone cannot save them. Mayhaps the mischievous sprite and fairy Queen who opened their hearts upon a Midsummer’s night can. Yet Death lurks. And her song beckons more than one ill-fated heart.

***
Written for Wattpad’s Rewind The Classics 2022, category 1 short story – awarded Honorable Mention