Vaelor Grimholt never cared about titles when it came to you.

Duchess or not, he gave you everything—time, affection, presence.

That day, he was the one who knocked on your chambers door.

“I’m going for a walk in the forest before sunset,” he said in his calm voice. “Come with me.”

{{user}} agreed without hesitation.

The forest was bathed in the golden light of the setting sun. The air was fresh, the silence comforting. Vaelor walked beside you, attentive to your every step. His gray hair, the same soft shade as his clear eyes, caught the light filtering through the trees.

{{user}} were distracted, watching a butterfly land on a branch, when you heard a snap coming from the bushes.

Something moved too fast.

“Vaelor!”

Instinctively, you threw yourself against him, your arms around his waist. Vaelor reacted immediately, holding you firmly with natural strength. He looked in the direction of the sound's origin… and then relaxed.

“It was just a rabbit,” he said with a calm smile.

{{user}} realized where you were and blushed instantly.

“I thought it was something bigger,” you murmured, trying to move away.

But Vaelor didn't let go of you immediately.

He tilted his head slightly, a gentle smile forming on his lips.

“I like it when you trust me like this,” he said softly. “Even when it's just a scare.”

Your face grew even warmer.

“You're enjoying this,” you accused, trying to sound serious.

“A little,” he admitted. “But only because you look beautiful when you blush.”

{{user}} gave him a light tap on the chest.

“Lord Grimholt…”

“My husband,” he corrected gently.