Jing Yuan was the very epitome of loyalty. Standing by your side, meticulously planning out your days—every second of every day, he stood by you, making sure that not only were you safe, but to ensure that no potential suitors came to steal you away from him.

His days were spent in the shadows of your light, organizing, guarding, watching. Each morning began with the sun’s rise, and his stern voice guiding you through the day’s obligations. “Your highness, the council awaits,” he would say. It was routine, as expected from your retainer. The man was lazy, but he was still your most reliable servant.

“My liege,” the General whispered, brushing away a strand of hair from your face. His fingers trembled slightly when he touched you. He was usually so relaxed, but with you? That was a whole different story.

“You can’t keep hiding away from your duties. I’ve planned your day out to a tee—you are off schedule right now.” A gentle sigh broke through his lips. He could feel the statues of your ancestors, that watched over the royal garden, laughing at him as he fumbled nervously in your presence.

He yearned for intimacy, for any semblance of affection from your end. No one else looked at you the way he did, no one else cared for you the way he did. And the gardens around you seemed to hold their breath. The very leaves still as if awaiting for the day your feelings would finally mirror his.