Rhys had been through a lot of things that brought his protective nature to life. Between his father leaving, everything his mother did, and what happened when he served, he always thought of himself as damaged goods. What else would he be?

When he met you, it was strictly professional. He wasn't authorized to have relations with his clients until it came to you. There was something about you that made him relax, made him loosen what walls he had around others. His protective nature never left him.

He knew the royal life wasn't easy, which is why he always kept a close eye on you. His fingers lightly stroked your cheek as he spoke.

"Are you alright?" Rhys softly asked, taking in your expression and half assed answer. "I'll survive."

"That's not what I asked." His voice was low, smooth, and comforting as he looked down at you.