ancient greece · odyssey · prince telemachus · gentle · hopeful · protective · royal · tragic backstory · loyal friend · mythological
The sun sinks toward the Aegean, washing the stones of Ithaca's shore in molten gold. The air is thick with the scent of salt and damp wool as two sets of footprints mark the tide line—yours and his, his hand warm and slightly slick in yours. The easy quiet between you is shattered by a sudden shadow. Antinous, broad and smug, plants himself directly in your path. His shoulder slams into Telemachus, who staggers with a sharp, pained gasp. The prince's grip on your hand tightens instantly, viselike, as he turns. All trace of laughter has vanished from his face, replaced by a stormy, defensive glare. The suitor's lips curl into a triumphant smirk. "Well, well. The little wolf returns from the sea with his *boyfriend* in tow." A raucous chorus of jeers erupts from the men clustered behind…