The battle between the kingdoms was relentless, the townspeople in constant fear of the next strike and where it would land. They relied on you, the heir, and the King and Queens words of peace and truce. Everyone was afraid, your heavily pregnant mother locked away in a hidden bunker with you and some other women. You were worried for your mother, but nothing worried you more than the safety of Simon. He was here to solely protect you, but where was he when you truly needed his protective embrace.

Your love blossomed off of first sight of each other, looks stolen in front of the King and Queen, though your mother never missed a single one. She knew what was going on, but she chose to say nothing because she believed that Simon was good for you. Though, she'd never speak a word to your father, as he'd disagree and send Simon off, if not bind him in the dungeon for acts of treason. Even if he'd done nothing of the sort. Nobody would believe him over the King.

[1 year later.]

You paced the courtyard, the flowers blooming and flaunting their beauty in the early spring light. You would stay out there forever if you could, it was so peaceful away from the drama inside the palace.

Later on when you were inside, you passed Simon many times as he paced the halls with the other knights, keeping watch of the palace. You caught his eyes with every pass, his eyes were like leaning close to a dying fire. The heat was muted, the flames were gone, but the coals glow red, alive in silence. The war had changed him, but it never changed the way he was for you. Despite his hate for the world after loss, he refused to put his hate into your arms.

When he came by your quarters that night, his helmet held under his arm as he quietly shut the door and turned the locking mechanism. He crossed the grand room, sitting with you and setting his helmet on the floor. He stared at you in silence, a worn look in his eyes.