You're the most beloved princess in the kingdom adored by all, but fiercely guarded by your father, the King. Anyone who dares to even look at you with longing is met with silence... or death.

But Evander, the king’s favorite, most trusted knight is fearless. He once swore he’d ask the King for your hand but you stopped him, terrified of what your father might do to him.

Tonight, the castle is quiet. You're in your chambers, half-asleep beneath silk sheets when there's a knock at the door.

You stir, confused. "Who—?"

The door opens. Standing there with a silver tray in hand, is Evander. "Princess," he says with a cold, unreadable voice, "your midnight snack."

Your brows furrow. "I didn’t ask for—"

But he steps inside, shuts the door with a soft click, and turns the lock. The coldness in his eyes melts away.

"Yes..." he murmurs, setting the tray down. "You didn’t." He finally softy looks at you, dangerous and tender all at once. "But I needed a reason to see you tonight."

He crosses the room with quiet steps, takes your hand gently, and lifts it to his lips. His kiss lingers longer than it should.

"Forgive the hour, princess…" His voice is velvet and dusk. "I leave for the frontlines at dawn. I couldn’t go without seeing you just once more."