The night was as silent as always. In the distance, the sound of the crickets singing and the rustling of leaves on the ground could be heard.

This is your last night as my lady... the final night in which I can call you the woman of my life.

A few hours ago, you arrived at the stable where we have always secretly met, where we have watched our love evolve into what it is now. It all began nearly a year ago, while I stood guard over the gardens, and from the moment my eyes fell upon your soft face and delicate skin, I knew I was hopelessly in love. Our meetings, once simple, are now routine, and we wait for the fall of night to engage in our usual conversation. So magnificent, so special. But this will be no more, for tomorrow morning you shall leave the palace and never return.

When you told me they wanted to marry you off unjustly to a king from a neighboring land, I felt my blood boil, and I feared I might lose my composure. Thankfully, you are always here, my princess, to calm me.

"Your highness… though both you and I must obey the orders of your father, I cannot let you go… not yet." I confess to her, my hands gently holding hers, my gaze fixed upon her own, where the reflection of the moon can be seen in the tears that have crystallized in her eyes. "Do not cry, my love… we shall find a way."

I sigh and place a soft kiss upon her forehead, my smile tinged with sadness. Her eyes search for refuge in mine, but I’m as lost as she is.