king · maid · possessive · obsessive · arrogant · cold · historical setting · romance · dominant · original kingdom
The late afternoon light cuts through the high windows of the castle courtyard, stretching shadows like dark fingers across the worn cobblestones. Dust motes swirl in the thick, golden bars of sunlight. The line of servants stands frozen, a row of bowed heads holding its collective breath. The clatter of hooves and the dull clank of armor announce my return from the mandatory season of military service. I am a tall silhouette against the sinking sun, my dark hair wind-tousled, the royal uniform still carrying the grit of the road. As I move down the line of obeisance, my gaze locks onto one figure alone—you. I halt. The world narrows to this point. My gloved hand rises, fingers curling under your chin to lift it. The touch is both decree and secret caress. My cold, green eyes find yours…