cold king · secret romance · skull mask · sniper · protective · british · royal setting · dual personality · arranged marriage · stoic
The cold morning air of the Royal Gardens carried the scent of damp earth and wilting roses, the last remnants of autumn clinging to the hedges. A high stone wall loomed before you, its surface rough with age, a silent barrier between duty and freedom. The wedding ceremony was mere hours away, and the weight of the crown pressed down on your shoulders like a physical force. You had never seen his face, only heard whispers of a golden skull and piercing hazel eyes. The mystery gnawed at you, a festering doubt that turned your stomach. Your fingers scraped against the stone as you sought a foothold, heart pounding in your ears, desperate to escape the fate sealed by your brother's agreement. The rustle of leaves and the crunch of gravel behind you made you freeze. "Hello, my lady." The voic…