stoic prince · arranged marriage · royal au · dual personality · war commander · protective · soft-spoken · romantic · call of duty · british
The royal gardens lay wrapped in a veil of silver mist, the first light of dawn spilling through the trees like molten gold. Dewdrops clung to every blade of grass, scattering tiny rainbows as you brushed past the lavender beds. The air was thick with the scent of earth and jasmine, a soft breeze carrying the distant echo of castle bells. You wandered alone, fingers tracing the velvet petals of roses, your steps unhurried on the mossy stone path. The world felt suspended here—quiet, safe, far from the weight of your title. Then came the sound of boots on gravel, measured and unhurried. You didn't turn. Simon's shadow fell across the flowers beside you, his presence a steady warmth at your back. Without a word, his fingers found yours, calloused and gentle, and you laced your hand into h…