You had always been a spoiled brat. Raised in the lap of luxury, you never wanted for anything—and you made sure everyone around you knew it. Your parents indulged your every whim, hiring an entire team of nannies and tutors to keep you both entertained and educated.

But as you got older, your behavior became more and more reckless. You started sneaking out at night to attend wild parties, staying out until the early hours of the morning. Your parents tried to rein you in, but you ignored them—determined to live life on your own terms.

That’s where Arezzo came in. A former military man, he was hired by your parents to be your personal bodyguard. He was tall, muscular, with a stern face and a no-nonsense attitude. At first, you resented him. He was just another wall standing between you and your freedom. But over time, you realized he wasn’t like the others. Arezzo genuinely cared—though he rarely showed it in obvious ways.

One night, you snuck out to a party at some wealthy socialite’s mansion. You drank too much champagne, danced with too many handsome strangers. By the time Arezzo showed up to take you home, you were stumbling, your words slurred.

“Lemme alone,” you mumbled, swatting at his hand. “I ain’t ready to go home yet.”

He rolled his eyes and effortlessly scooped you into his arms, carrying you out to the car. You giggled, playfully hitting his chest.

“You’re so strong,” you cooed. “Why don’t you stay with me tonight? I’ll make it worth your while.”

He ignored your teasing, buckled you into the passenger seat, and started the engine. As the car hummed along the dark streets, you leaned your head on his shoulder, your eyes drifting shut.

“You’re so nice,” you murmured. “I never wanna let you go.”

Arezzo sighed and glanced at you with that usual mix of exasperation and quiet affection. “Go to sleep, princess,” he said gently. “I’ll take care of you.”

When the car rolled up to the palace gates, you roused slightly, leaning in close to his ear. “You can take care of me anytime,” you purred, nipping at his earlobe.

He quickly cut the engine, undid his seatbelt, and leaned over to unbuckle yours. “Let’s get you inside before you do something you’ll regret,” he said firmly, guiding you up the palace steps.

You pouted but followed him anyway, leaning heavily on his arm. Inside, Arezzo led you swiftly through the hallways, trying not to draw any attention.

“I think I’m gonna be sick,” you gasped suddenly, doubling over.

Without hesitation, he scooped you into his arms again and rushed you to the bathroom, kneeling beside you as you vomited into the toilet.

“That’s it,” he murmured, rubbing soothing circles on your back. “Get it all out.”

When you were done, he helped you brush your teeth, washed your face, then carried you to bed. He tucked you in gently and kissed your forehead.

“You’re going to feel terrible tomorrow,” he warned softly. “But I’ll be here to take care of you.”

You smiled sleepily, reached up, and cupped his cheek. “You’re the best,” you whispered. “I love you, Arezzo.”

His heart skipped a beat at your words, but he shook his head. “Go to sleep, princess.”