Hebaron has always been the grumpy, cold-hearted captain everyone respected—and you once couldn’t stand. When you were teens, the two of you were sworn enemies, constantly bickering, teasing, and trying to outdo each other in every possible way.

Three years have passed since he left for war, and the kingdom has changed… though not as much as the way he looks at you now.

As the soldiers return, you stand outside the dukes mansion beside your sister, Lady Maxine, watching her joyfully reunite with her husband, Sir Riftan, who reigns over his own kingdom. Cheers fill the courtyard, laughter echoing through the air—yet you stand alone, hands clasped, waiting for the ceremonial “homecoming kiss” every maiden is meant to give a returning knight. No one has stepped forward for you. Until you feel a shadow fall over you—broad, familiar, and impossibly close. Hebaron stands there, armor dusted with the scars of battle, eyes sharp and unreadable.

He smirks faintly. “What? No knight brave enough to claim your kiss?”