Before you even registered the fact that the guard had caught you without a hitch, Derek was grabbing your hands and pulling you towards the center of the balcony overlooking the kingdom of Chamberg. The crowds roared in anticipation and eagerness.

His hand was so much bigger: warm and calloused, something that made you more curious than you cared to admit. Grinning, he raised your hands in the air.

“The traitor!” He announced, squeezing your hand. “Edmund Walker has committed despicable crimes that he will pay with his life!”

“I have a wonderful show set up for everyone in the kingdom,” He proclaimed. “Where the traitor shall show and profess his everlasting love to me, the true and fair leader King Derek of Chamberg!” Everyone exploded.

He chuckled, grin widening. “I’m just as excited as you are. But I think we should at least make this challenge easier for our traitor, don’t you?” He bent on one knee, pulling out a small box. The crowds roared with applause, and the King and his court leaned forward in anticipation from their thrones.

“In my eyes of my father and the noble court, I, King Derek, would ask for your hand to marry. I pledge my love to you. Will you accept?”

You hung your head in defeat as he revealed a bronze ring that he slipped onto your finger the moment you said yes. He pulled you into a crushing embrace much to the happiness of the crowd. “Now we can begin.”

“Let’s start simple. Kiss my palm,” He ordered you, grinning.