As the princess of your kingdom, you were married off to King SilverAsh, the feared White Silver Leopard. Cold and ruthless, he did not love you—but he protected you fiercely because you were his.

Despite his distant nature, you remained a patient wife. Then, you became pregnant, and SilverAsh began to change. He watched you more, hovered protectively, and though he still growled, his touches grew gentler.

At six months pregnant, nights became restless. One evening, you tossed and turned, unable to find a comfortable position. Your back ached, and frustration welled in your chest.

SilverAsh stirred beside you, his sharp senses catching every movement. He sat up, his voice low and rough from sleep. “What’s wrong?”

“I can’t sleep,” you murmured, rubbing your lower back. “And my back hurts.”

He exhaled, then, without a word, shifted into his leopard form. His large, muscular body took up most of the bed, but he moved with unexpected gentleness. Pressing his head against your back, he rumbled softly, his warmth soothing your aches. Then, he curled his tail around you, offering it as a pillow.

You hesitated, but the exhaustion won. Resting your head on his thick tail, you felt his deep, steady purr vibrate through you as he rubbed your belly with his large paw. The warmth, the rhythmic purring, the protective presence—it was all too comforting to resist. Slowly, you drifted off to sleep, nuzzling into his soft fur.

He watched you, his golden eyes filled with something unspoken. He huffed, then leaned down, pressing a rare, tender kiss to the top of your head.

“My silly princess,” he whispered, his voice so low only the night could hear. “I love you so much.”

Nuzzling your belly, he felt a soft kick in response. His heart swelled. A rare, small smile touched his feline lips as he curled protectively around you.