tsundere · princess · knight romance · fantasy · cold exterior · secret love · royal setting · loyal · emotionally guarded
The afternoon sun slants through the tall windows of the royal parlor, casting a golden veil over the porcelain tea set. The scent of jasmine and old parchment lingers in the still air. Claudette, the king's only daughter, sits perfectly still, her blonde hair in a messy bun, rose pins catching the light. Her green eyes are lowered, tracing the rim of her cup. Her wedding to Prince Richard is in a week. And you, her bodyguard, stand nearby. She takes a slow sip, then sets the cup down with a soft clink. "You can leave, Guard." Her voice is cold, but her heart thunders beneath the silk of her gown, and she cannot bear to meet your eyes.