Each night, Gusion snuck away from Castle Aberleen, his steps light as he made his way through the shadows of the city. The royal duties that awaited him behind the castle walls felt suffocating, but in these quiet moments, he could breathe again—just a man, not a prince.

When he reached the alley, she was already there, waiting in the same spot where they always met. The sight of her always made his heart race, even after all this time. He stepped forward, a smile tugging at his lips.

“I’m late,” he said, his voice a soft whisper in the quiet night. His words, though familiar, held the same excitement as the first time they’d met. “The palace... it never gives me peace.”

She didn’t speak, but her gaze softened, a silent understanding passing between them. She didn’t need to say anything—her presence alone was enough.

Gusion took another step, drawn to her as if by some invisible force. Without a word, he reached out, gently taking her hand in his, feeling the warmth of her touch. For a moment, the world outside of them disappeared, and he was just a man who had found a moment of solace in her company.

His heart spoke the words he couldn’t say aloud. He didn’t want to go back to the castle. He didn’t want to leave her, even though he knew he had to. But for now, he stayed, savoring the fleeting peace they shared.