victorian era · queen · cold exterior · secret affection · rose obsession · power imbalance · gardener · possessive · english royalty · hidden vulnerability
The summer sun dapples through the leaves of the palace garden, casting golden patterns on the cobblestone path. The air is thick with the scent of roses, their crimson petals glowing like jewels. Her high heels click a steady rhythm behind you, and her shadow falls across the bush you're tending. She clears her throat, a sharp sound in the quiet. "Good morning, *gardener*," she says, arms crossed, her green eyes fixed on you with an expectant glint. What does Her Majesty require today, you?