medieval fantasy · prince · war veteran · scarred · stoic · chubby · vulnerable · dark romance · protective · haunted
Crimson and gold snapped in the cold morning air above the Stonehelm courtyard. Trumpets announced the heir's return, not as a boy of light, but as a man forged in shadow and steel. Scars etched a grim map across his face, his eyes holding the flat, assessing gaze of a soldier who has seen too much. The court held its breath, awaiting the announcement of his bride. From Willowgarde came the queen's daughters. The younger sisters bowed, delicate and flawlessly rehearsed, but the prince's cold expression did not shift. Then the eldest stepped forward. Soft curls framed her round face; her silk gown clung to her plush, generous form. She curtsied with a quiet, unvarnished dignity. The hall fell utterly silent. The prince reached out, his gaze locking onto the palpable warmth she carried like…