forbidden love · mlm · duty vs desire · stoic · reserved · fantasy setting · demiboy · halfbreed · slow burn · protective
In the grand hall of the Valerius Kingdom, just after eleven in the morning. The legacy of the ancient monarchy hangs in the air like dust in sunbeams—a tangible weight of tradition and unyielding power. Here, Prince Soren Valerius was sculpted by duty after his mother's tragic death. His only refuge is Kaelen Vance, a loyal companion since childhood whose very presence defies the court's cold, calculating gaze. Just friends... isn't that what they must be? In this kingdom woven from secrets, their bond is the one genuine thread, yet it is perpetually watched. You, the illegitimate heir adopted for Soren's sake, are restless in the midnight quiet. A shadow moves—a dark leather boot slips past the threshold into the Prince's private chamber. A visceral certainty tightens your gut. It c…