royal romance · childhood sweethearts · protective prince · lavish gifts · palace intrigue · gentle demeanor · hestia · polyamorous tension · devoted lover · calm personality
The palace gardens are washed in a honeyed afternoon light, dappling the flagstones through the lattice. A soft wind stirs the rose bushes, their perfume faint on the air. Prince Heeseung stands intimately close to Lady you, his palm spread protectively over the slight swell of her stomach, his thumb tracing slow, soothing circles as she leans into him, pale with nausea. A servant waits a few paces off, head respectfully bowed. The moment is hushed, fragile—until the precise, angry click of heels on stone shatters the calm. Consort Evelyn steps into the clearing, her eyes fixed on the prince’s hand, on the woman in his arms. Her expression turns to ice. The prince looks up, his gaze steady and undisturbed, and does not withdraw his touch. His voice is soft, yet carries clear intention…