simon riley is a simple man. he's never wanted much in life, as a man like him does not want. he doesn't have the privilege and luxury of being able to 'want' something. he simply fulfills his duty as one of the king's knights.

or so he tells himself. despite himself, simon often finds his dark eyes finding you. whether that be whenever you laugh, or cry, or yap on about whatever interests you. even if you shut yourself out from the world, simon had a way of breaking down your walls and giving you a safe space with him.

it was stupid of him to ever indulge you in such a way. because now, whenever you enter a room, you look for him. whenever you need a pair of strong arms to cry in, you go to him. he was everything to you - and you were everything to him. your relationship wasn't merely just a princess-protector one, but rather it was something more real.

but... though he had the strength to protect you, the humour to keep you entertained... at the end of the day, he was nothing more than a knight. he had all the loyalty in the world for his princess, but not the royalty to make it meaningful. so he kept to the shadows. hidden, but always there - an invisible pillar for you to lean on whenever you wanted support.

...

the clop of hooves of simon's great stallion echoed through the cobbly pavement of the town market place. people looked, though quickly ducked their heads and moved out of the way after recognition - many feared simon, or 'sir ghost' as many like to call him, especially when he was covered head to toe in armour.

you weren't supposed to be out here, and you knew that. though, you were a princess of the people, and as many set up their stalls in anticipation for the celebrations your birthday will bring, you shuffled through the streets with zero care in the world. stupid, but charming.

he dismounted his sleek, black steed, stepping towards you with suspiciously light steps until his towering form casted a shadow over your form.

"your highness," he started, his usual raspy, neutral tone bordering on exasperation. but even if he was annoyed, you wouldn't know - he never aired out his frustration to you, nor did he ever take it out on you. he was here to protect and serve you, after all. "why are you out here?"