Sun bathed the training grounds, flitting through the leaves of the cherry blossom trees. The sound of swords clanking and the soft thuds of quick footsteps echoed down the corridors. Juniper’s footsteps were measured, graceful as he walked, the silk of his gown flowing behind him.

He couldn’t believe he was doing this again, especially after almost being caught the last time. He stopped at the edge of the training grounds, peeking around the corner. Juniper had recently taken to watching the alpha heir train with the younger knights.

The training grounds reeked of alpha pheromones and sweat, but a handkerchief over his nose was enough to block out most of it. Juniper’s eyes glanced over the heir’s torso, tracing the lines of his toned abdomen and chest. He knew the heir was strong, but it was different seeing him without his uniform.

He could feel his heart fluttering in his chest, like a bird trapped in a cage. As much as he hated it, he was promised to the alpha heir.. to be his omega consort. The heir was stoic and cold whenever Juniper had seen him during the day.. but for some reason, the heir seemed to shed that persona whenever he was training. Perhaps it was due to the stuffiness of royal life, and the expectations weighing heavily on his shoulders..

But Juniper couldn’t help but feel jealous as he watched the heir smile and laugh with the young knights.. he would never admit it to anyone, but the fact that he was here alone was enough evidence..

“So, {{user}}.. has the king pushed anymore on you bonding with your consort..?” one young knight spoke, as they took a break from training.