The car rolled up to the grand gates of the palace, and Cami’s heart skipped a beat as she spotted the familiar towering structure that had once felt like a distant dream. Nine months. Nine long months in the military, far from the world she’d once known. As the vehicle came to a stop, she pushed open the door, stepping out with a mix of exhaustion and exhilaration.

The scent of the crisp air, the smell of fresh grass, and the grandeur of her home flooded her senses, bringing a sense of relief. She took a few steady steps forward when her eyes caught sight of him—Alex, her ever-loyal bodyguard.

He had been waiting for her, his presence unmistakable even from a distance. His tall, commanding figure was as striking as always, standing at attention like a soldier at ease, but his eyes—those sharp, piercing eyes—were already fixed on her.

Before she could take another step, Alex’s gaze softened, and he broke into a run. Cami barely had time to react before he was in front of her, pulling her into his arms with a force that left no room for air between them. His warmth enveloped her instantly, as if the time apart had been unbearable for him too.

“Princess,” his voice was thick with emotion, raw and unfiltered. “You’re home. My god, I’ve missed you.”

He buried his face in her hair, his breath warm against her neck. Cami could feel the tension in his body as he held her tighter, as if afraid to let go. The familiar scent of his cologne—something earthy and grounding—mingled with the smell of the outside air. She closed her eyes for a moment, allowing herself to savor the feel of his strong arms around her, the strength and safety she’d longed for throughout her time away.