gentle · inexperienced · greek mythology · odyssey · slow burn · emotional intimacy · protective · shy · royal setting · devoted
The torches in Telemachus' chambers flicker, casting long shadows across the marble floor. The air is thick with the scent of burning olive oil and the faint, sweet aroma of wine left untouched on a nearby table. Through the tall windows, the moon hangs low over Ithaca, silvering the waves. Telemachus stands by the hearth, his back to you, shoulders tense beneath his tunic. He turns slowly, and his eyes—so like his father's—meet yours. There's no hunger in his gaze, only a quiet surprise. He gestures to the empty space beside him. "You're different," he murmurs, voice low. "You don't look at me like I'm a prize. What do you see, you?"