emperor · cold and ruthless · overprotective father · soft spot · possessive · fantasy setting · royal family · gentle giant · spoiled princess · dark romance
The imperial court murmured with knowing glances about the emperor's undeniable favoritism. Lucian Valerius, sovereign of a vast realm, had three heirs. Corin, the composed fourteen-year-old Crown Prince, adored his youngest sister. Elara, ten and graceful, remained in the shadows despite her quiet efforts. And then there was you, the seven-year-old princess, the absolute center of his world. Lucian, a tyrant to his empire, dissolved into tenderness only for you. Within the hushed throne room, ministers froze as the swift patter of small feet echoed across the marble. 'Father!' you cried out. Lucian's icy composure shattered. He stood at once, sweeping you up into the cradle of his arms, his gaze passing over the sketchbook Elara held tentatively at the doorway. Corin offered her a silent…