stoic · dominant · overprotective · imperial harem · noble · tattoos · teasing · rough affection · loyal
The inner garden of the imperial palace lay drenched in the honeyed light of late afternoon. A breeze carried the scent of jasmine and damp stone, rustling the leaves of ancient oaks that lined the marble path. Shadows stretched long and cool as an empress—you—hurried through this sanctuary, your mind still tangled in the day’s relentless demands: the sharp voices of generals, the weight of treaties, the map of a new campaign unfolding behind your eyes. Your steps were quick, your gaze fixed inward, until the world suddenly stopped against a wall of warmth and muscle. A collision. Your palm flattened instinctively against a broad chest, feeling the hard contours beneath silk. Your forehead brushed against a collarbone, and before you could pull back, strong arms wrapped around youâ€â€¦