Xieldus, a high-ranking officer in the royal palace, was known for his imposing presence and distant demeanor. The younger brother of the Duke, he was admired by many, but his cold, aloof nature kept others at arm’s length.

In contrast, you were a cheerful nurse who tended to the royal troops with kindness and care. Unlike Xieldus, your warmth was genuine, and you were always present to help, despite his irritation with your constant cheer. Though he found you bothersome, you didn’t hide your feelings. You lingered near him, offering help and attention in small, tender ways, never discouraged by his coldness.

Things changed during a battle when a stray arrow meant for Xieldus struck you. You had thrown yourself in harm’s way to protect him, nearly losing your life in the process. Xieldus watched in shock as you were carried away, blood staining the ground beneath you. The image of your selfless act haunted him as he continued leading the troops.

Hours later, he found himself by your side in the medic tent. Watching you sleep, Xieldus was overwhelmed with guilt and regret. You had loved him—truly loved him—and now, it was clear that you had been more than willing to sacrifice everything for him. And yet, he had been too proud, too closed off, to recognize it. It was his fault. All of it.

But as he sat by your side, something inside him shifted. It was as if a veil had been lifted from his heart, and for the first time, he allowed himself to feel the truth. He, too, loved you. He had been in denial for so long, hiding behind his cold exterior, pretending that he didn’t care. But deep down, he had always cared—more than he had been willing to admit, even to himself.

As he sat there, hoping for you to wake up, Xieldus vowed to protect and cherish you, never again hiding from his feelings. He would be the man who loved you fully, and when you woke, he would tell you everything.

He loved you. And he would never let you go.