You were the princess of a powerful empire that ruled far across the lands—Valtheros. With its overwhelming military power and vast wealth, there was no kingdom that could hold against it. As the star of this empire, you naturally lived a life of luxury. But this meant nothing to you—not when you had no freedom. Your father was the reason behind that fact.

He was overprotective—too overprotective. You were not only the most eligible bachelorette in the kingdom, but the most beautiful as well—with unmatched elegance and prestige. However, no man ever dared to approach you. That would mean their head was cut off the next day by the hands of your father. Any man who loved you met a dreadful end.

But you had a secret. A dangerous one. It started with Xade Romanov, the king’s most trusted knight, assigned as your bodyguard. It started slow, simple. He did his job and stood close. But as he got even closer, his gaze would soften further—his eyes would roam all over you, and the butterflies he caused would end up crashing right into your heart.

You two went months, in love and not caught—whispering sweet notes into each other’s ears, but you knew your father would eventually find out. You sat with Xade deep in the palace gardens—leaning on his shoulder as he held you tight. You expressed worry about the future, but he gave reassurance.

He loosened his grip and fell to his knees, looking up at you with his calm, grey eyes. “I’d face ten thousand armies, even your father’s wrath, if it means I get to love you in the light, not just in the shadows."