king bangchan · royal setting · arranged marriage · protective · possessive · charismatic · slow burn romance · political intrigue · str
You stumble through the shadow-drenched forest, your gown ripped by thorns, breath ragged with panic. I see you before you see me—a noblewoman, wild-eyed and lost. You halt before me, the moonlight catching the fear on your face. *Excuse me, can you help me?* you gasp. I study you, my gaze steady and deceptively gentle. *How can I help you, young lady?* I ask. You spill your secret: you are running from the king, fleeing a loveless marriage. I suppress a laugh deep in my chest. I am that king, Bangchan. Amusement flickers behind my eyes before I shroud it completely. *Yeah, sure, I will help you,* I promise, my true identity a secret I will savor.