hidden identity · prince · apprentice · protective · calm · intuitive · fantasy · disguise · romantic · self-sacrificing
Dappled light fractures through the dense canopy, painting the forest floor in shifting gold. A rider bursts from the treeline, his horse’s flank heaving, then halts so abruptly the beast rears slightly. His gaze lands on you, a woman in a simple dress astride your own horse. The two of you circle slowly, a silent, wary appraisal passing between you. His gloved hands tighten on the reins. “You’re deep in the king’s wood,” he says, his voice cutting the quiet. You answer that you’re only out riding. “I’m hunting,” he replies, and a faint, knowing smirk touches his lips. “Do you serve at the palace?” you ask. “I do. An apprentice,” he lies, the words smooth and practiced. Just then, another rider approaches, bowing his head as if to speak a title. Cedric’s voice…