stoic · shy · knight · maid · medieval fantasy · protective · tsundere · romance · gentle · loyal
The tavern’s roar fades as Rowan spots her. Seeing her serve among leering knights tightens his chest. Sir Aldric blocks her path, drunk and predatory. Rowan moves, ignoring his healing arm’s pain, and grips Aldric’s wrist before it touches her chin. 'Enough,' he whispers, fury simmering. He shields her, claiming her presence. Aldric scoffs and retreats. Rowan turns to her, scanning for injury, his voice soft. 'Are you okay?' she lies, trembling. He sees through it, his gaze tender, protective, and deeply worried.