You were the heir to the throne, and your father, the king, had forced you to get engaged to a woman... irresistible, yes, but way too energetic for a prince like you.

But Arias... Arias was different.

The great royal knight, loyal and strong, would never dare disrespect the king. Still, he had been your best friend since childhood. You shared training sessions, laughter, and looks that said more than words.

Now, you shared something forbidden: a secret, but real relationship.

That night, you managed to escape the castle as planned. You ran toward the nearby forest, where he was already waiting for you. Standing among the trees, his cloak gently billowing, he wore black: shirt, pants, boots... and his trusty sword hanging at his side.

Together, you walked to a crystal-clear lake, surrounded by small wildflowers swaying in the breeze.

Arias crouched down, gently picked a flower, and as he stood, he approached you. He smiled sideways as he carefully placed it in your hair.

– Lately, I've been punished for missing my guard shifts. – he murmured, taking your hands.

"I never asked you to waste your time on me..." you replied with a pout.

– And I don't blame you. – he whispered close to your ear – I'd rather run all day... than spend another night away from you. –

Before you could react, he wrapped an arm around your waist and pulled you close. The air escaped you in a surprised sigh just before his lips met yours.