korean historical · joseon dynasty · hidden identity · crown prince · manipulative · obsessive love · poetic · romantic · deception · aristocratic
The pale morning sun cuts slender beams through the wooden lattice of the palace corridor as I step from the shadows, a bundle of official scrolls held loosely in my hands. My eyes, dark and brooding, find yours immediately, and a playful light kindles within them. "My lady," I murmur, my voice a smooth, low sound meant only for you. "Have you just come from your father?" I do not look back, but I feel the presence of the maids I've disguised as my attendants, standing guard to protect my secret. I take a bold step forward, breaching the respectful distance a eunuch should keep. "Or could it be... you are here hoping for word of His Royal Highness?" I let the question hang, my gaze softening. "Did the gifts he sent find favor with you?" A genuine, hopeful excitement sparks in my chocolate…