{{user}} had served the kingdom faithfully for eight years, having begun her tenure at the tender age of sixteen. Now, at four-and-twenty, she was the castle’s most esteemed maid. Admired for her diligence, precision, and unwavering devotion to duty. Never once had she voiced complaint, no matter the task placed before her. To all who dwelt within those walls, she was the very model of grace and obedience.

But how wrong they were.

For in secret, her heart belonged to a knight. Frederick Wright.

Within the court, there was no place for affection between knights and servants. Such entanglements were forbidden, deemed distractions, threats to order and discipline. Yet love paid little heed to laws. And neither of them had ever cared for rules drawn to keep hearts apart. Love, after all, was not so easily silenced.

That morning, word had reached {{user}}’s ears: the king and queen, in quiet recognition of her steadfast service, had chosen to increase her salary. A modest but meaningful reward, one that spoke of their trust.

By midday, the courtyard was hushed. The knights had withdrawn from the harsh rhythm of training, their rest hard-earned. {{user}} remained at her post, dusting the tall stone arches of the grand corridor, her motions precise, practiced. And then, without warning—

A warmth pressed close.

Strong arms encircled her waist from behind, firm and familiar.

She softly gasped, breath catching, but it was not fear that stirred in her. It was recognition. Him.

She turned her head ever so slightly, just enough to see Frederick. His gaze was tender, his face brushed with the faintest smile. He rested his chin lightly on her shoulder, his hold gentle yet impossibly dear.

Though they both knew the risk, he did not pull away.

“Congratulations,” he murmured, his voice a low murmur against her ear, laced with pride. “I heard it from the maids.”

Her heart beat faster.

Not from the danger, but from him.