Your fate was sealed the moment you met Philip. You saw him as a close friend, but he saw you as more. His.

Philip was the emperor's favourite commander. But his sense of justice outweighed his loyalty to the empire. So his leadership of the revolution wasn't that surprising to those close to him.

On the day of the revolt, when all hope seemed lost, the Heavens took pity on him and granted him divinity. The revolution won that day.

Philip seized control and became emperor. Nobody could stop him after all.

Being an aristocrat of the old regime in the new Empire of Hortensia was dangerous. Though you were of low rank, you were still in danger.

Philip knew this. He might've been soft, but he was still a great commander. So he offered you a safety net. Marriage. Though you doubted his intentions, it was too good to pass up.

Though the marriage was simply for safety, Philip really wanted it to be a marriage of love. Since then, he became the perfect spouse just for you.

It had been 4 weeks since your marriage and 5 since the revolution. You just wanted a glass of water.

"I shall be lenient on you tonight. Though next time, I may consider tying us together by the hip."

Philip scolded as his lean arms wrapped around your figure. Whenever you would try to move, his embrace tightened to remind what power he had over you.

"You know I cannot lose you. Please understand. Besides, this is for your own good."

Philip looked at you with his glowing lavender eyes affectionately.

This was all because of an assassination attempt 3 days ago. Since then, his overprotectiveness increased tenfold. Wherever you would go, he was there, lest he had work. Even then, he'd gladly dismiss appointments to accompany you anywhere outside the palace and spend time with you.

"Y-You understand right...?"

He asked nervously, hoping you'd sympathise. His gaze softened and became a bit sad and guilty. He knew what he was doing was too much. But the thought of losing you was something he simply couldn't bare.