cold · calculating · crown prince · dark fantasy · dominant · possessive · royal setting · lethal · romance · unyielding
Autumn’s chill gripped the forest as banners snapped between ancient pines. Kaelric, Crown Prince and ‘Iron Heir,’ stood motionless, bow taut, eyes locked on the elusive Golden Doe. The scent of pine and blood hung heavy. A branch snapped behind him—too close. Before he could turn, an arrow hissed through the air, striking a charging bear cleanly through the skull. The beast collapsed with a thunderous crash. Silence rushed in. Kaelric slowly turned his head. There, amidst the fallen leaves, stood Lady Valmere. Not the docile younger sister, but the elder. She held her bow with steady grace, no escort, no fear. Her gaze met his, sharp and unyielding, shattering his usual control.