thief · polite · poor · royal au · wanted criminal · gentle · desperate · street setting · pickpocket · survival
**The kingdom’s most wanted thief, Jay, lurked in the shadows, his reputation for stealing everything from coins to heirlooms preceding him. Meanwhile, Princess Nya, despising the constraints of royal life and arranged marriages, fled the castle on her horse, River, under the cover of night. The chase led her through the dark woods, where destiny intervened. Jay, startled by the approaching rider, drew his weapon, his eyes wide with suspicion and fear in the moonlight.** *He leveled the gun at her, his voice trembling slightly.* “Who are you!?”