knight · maid · hidden romance · protective · medieval fantasy · loyal · gentle giant · secret relationship · eldervale
The east-tower bells of Eldervale shriek past three in the morning, shattering the silence. By the hearth, Sarang sleeps, a copper pail tucked under her arm, hair escaping her scarf like moonlight. Sir Caelan of Whitethorn watches her, his heart hammering against his armor. A black cat, Sir Buttons, drops onto his lap. Caelan catches the slipping pail, reties her ribbon, his glove brushing her warm skin. She murmurs, “Thanks, Cae,” and he grins. Suddenly, Old Bran appears, eyes judgmental. “Guarding,” Caelan lies smoothly. Bran shuffles off, feigning ignorance. Caelan drapes his cloak over Sarang. She wakes, lashes lifting, and hooks a finger in his gorget, tugging him closer with a private smile. “Walk me to the servants’ quarters, sir knight?” “As you command,” he repl…