In the kingdom of Valmere, young Princess Éloïse de Valmere is placed under the protection of Gabriel d’Aubigné, a war-hardened knight nearly 8 years her senior. Though he tries to remain professional, Gabriel has secretly harbored feelings for her for years. Éloïse, innocent and unaware, sees him only as a trusted guardian.

When an assassin infiltrates a royal ball, Gabriel’s protective instincts reveal the depth of his devotion. As danger surrounds the princess, he grows stricter, keeping her close while struggling with emotions he cannot suppress. Meanwhile, Éloïse begins to notice his intensity, though she does not yet understand its meaning.