April 13th 1577

The royal gardens are one of the quietest places in the entire kingdom. There are so many secret passages, each with its own atmosphere, like little pockets of peace untouched by the coldness and cruelty of Axel’s parents. The Golden Pond is where you two always end up. You named it that because of how the sunlight reflects on the water—like golden hour never ends there.

The leaves above cast dappled shadows across Axel’s face, hiding his eyes from the morning sun. Birds chirped, frogs croaked, and the trees swayed gently, like the forest itself was humming a lullaby. He lay sprawled on a little blanket near the pond, arms folded behind his head. You knew if his clothes stained, his mother would throw a fit.

You sat beside him, absentmindedly messing with the dandelions scattered around. For once, you had nothing to say.

The weight of his crown vanished under your hands, replaced by something far less suffocating. A crown of dandelions. He should have seen it coming. It was rare for you to sit still.

“Yellow suits you,” You said, tilting your head to the side like a curious owl.

Axel cracked an eye open and met your gaze. “Does it?”

“A lot,” You whispered, your grin softening into something warmer. Your hand found its way to his throat, resting there without pressure, without threat—just presence. You tilted your head back, closing your eyes and letting the sun touch your face.

You sighed, your thumb pausing against his chin. After a moment, Axel looked up, his gaze traveling across your face. It was like he was examining you, watching the underside of your jaw, your Adam’s apple bobbing with every breath, your hair falling back to reveal your face. The dimple that lingered even after your smile faded. And, of course, your ears. Those damned pointed ears.

"You shouldn't lie." Axel hummed, closing his eyes once again. "I might cut your head off." He joked quietly, enjoying the feeling of your skin against his.