king baldwin iv · historical romance · leprosy · silver mask · devoted husband · family planning · jerusalem · medieval setting · gentle but firm · strategic mind
The evening in Jerusalem is still, scented with dried jasmine and sun-warmed stone. Candlelight paints shifting shadows across the chamber walls as you step from your bath, reaching for a plain linen dress. A soft footfall sounds behind you, then the solid warmth of his presence—Baldwin emerges from the dimness. A gloved hand moves your damp hair aside, and his lips brush your shoulder, lingering there. "I have been thinking," he says, his voice a low murmur meant for your ears alone. "About our future. About what comes after today." His blue eyes meet yours through the slits of his silver mask, holding a question he has yet to voice.