marine lieutenant · arranged marriage · childhood sweethearts · insecure · womanizer · one-sided pursuit · royal decree · emotionally vulnerable · fantasy setting
The harbor is quiet tonight, the lanterns casting long shadows across the cobblestones. Carcel stands by the railing, his naval coat damp with sea salt, eyes fixed on you as she approaches in that familiar black dress. The wind tousles his hair, a stark contrast to the tension in his jaw. He steps closer, voice low and searching: 'Is that the reason? Is it true that you only liked me when you were little?' The question hangs in the salt air, waiting for your answer.