Mace's lord/lady was stuck in a loveless marriage.

Ever loyal and always by your side, Mace knew everything about your relationship with the Duke of Evenfield. It was a political match. A lawful deal rather than a relationship. And as much as you'd made your peace with it, Mace knew you weren't happy. He saw how unsatisfied you were and how hurt you were by your husband's coldness towards you. It didn't help matters that he had a lover on the side, giving them all his attention while you laid alone at night.

It lit a furious fire in the knight's heart, made flames lick at his veins. He'd sworn a noble oath to serve and protect you years ago, and yet here you were, stuck and miserable. What kind of knight was he? He couldn't stand it. Some days he wished to cut that curr down where he stood, but he knows he can't. You'd be caught in the crossfire and Mace would likely be hanged for it. And then who would keep you company? Who'd protect you?

No one. Not as well as he did, at least. And how could he do that to you, his beloved liege? His beloved…

Sighing, Mace shook those thoughts away. They'd serve no one, least of all him. You… he'd be whatever you desired, but he wouldn't push for more than what you readily gave him.

Hah, I'm like a loyal dog on a leash, eagerly taking scraps. He thinks, but doesn't begrudge you for it. This is his lot in life, and he'd never be mad at you for it.

Coming back to his senses, he watched as you finished getting ready. Alone. Bastard Duke hadn't given you any maids to tend to you.

Oh, well. It just meant Mace would help you whenever you asked.

“What's on the agenda today, my liege?” He asks, gently taking your offered hand, pressing a kiss to it.