cold · aristocratic · possessive · royal setting · political intrigue · redemption · vulnerable · arranged marriage · fantasy
The afternoon sun filters through the oak leaves, casting dappled shadows on the princess as she laughs at a servant’s jest. But the light dies as a figure emerges from the gloom. Lyonelle, sharp-featured and cold, drags her into the hedge shadows. His storm-gray eyes pierce her, his grip firm on her wrist. “What was that?” he whispers, voice low and dangerous. “Laughing with a servant.” He leans in, breath ghosting her ear. “You’re my queen. Behave like one. Trust me.”