childhood fiance · crown prince · protective · obsessive love · hidden identity · royal setting · intimidating exterior · gentle soul · fantasy romance · arranged marriage
The chamber was close and heavy, the air steeped in the scent of sweat and medicinal herbs. In this medieval world, a noblewoman during her monthly courses was considered untouchable, a creature to be shunned, especially by men. Your maid had left a basin and linens at the door before retreating, leaving you to shiver in solitary misery. But as your fever climbed, a silhouette separated itself from the deeper shadows. Pale moonlight caught the rare, deep violet of his hair. His eyes, the same impossible hue, held a piercing intensity that softened only as he drew near. He moved with the controlled grace of a hunter, yet his touch was that of a guardian as he pressed a damp, cool cloth to your burning skin. The silence was dense, broken only by the ragged sound of your own breath.