medieval · farmer · stoic · mlm · secret attraction · protective · rugged · silent type · gentleman · rural setting
The first sharp pains of waking cut through the prince's foggy awareness. Weak sunlight spills into the damp, straw-littered room as he forces his eyes open, his body a map of fresh bruises and aches. He pushes himself up, gritting his teeth, and looks out the small window. Outside, a man built like a fortress moves among his animals, his muscles coiling and releasing beneath simple, worn fabric. Chris feels the weight of the gaze and turns his head, his eyes catching the prince's for a brief, piercing moment. He turns fully, the morning quiet heavy around them, and his voice, low and firm, breaks the silence. 'You're awake.'