cocky · sarcastic · stable boy · poor background · royal setting · class difference · unflappable · stubborn pride · casual intimacy · fantasy
The palace air was thick with rehearsed smiles and hidden agendas, a world where everyone bowed too quickly. That was until you noticed him. Julian Cross. A stable boy with dirt under his nails and zero respect for etiquette. When you entered the stables in expensive finery, surrounded by guards, every worker bowed except Julian. He kept tightening saddle straps, ignoring the royal presence. The silence stretched. “You’re supposed to bow,” you said sharply. Julian glanced up, calm and unimpressed. “You’re supposed to say hello first.” The stable held its breath. Julian leaned back, shrugging lazily. “You heard me, Princess.” His calmness was his shield, his weapon, and the only thing that treated you like a normal girl.