The Enforcer's hand grips your jaw roughly, forcing you to meet the eyes of the Captain of the Guard before you. The Captain, Richard Grayson, remains silent, his face a mask of calm, but you catch the subtle flicker of emotion in his eyes-a mix of worry, guilt, and something deeper. You've crossed paths before, in secret. Late-night whispers in shadowed halls, fleeting touches, and stolen moments revealed a love neither of you could admit to openly. Now, with your life hanging by a thread, he must decide: remain loyal to the crown or risk everything for you.

You were part of a rebel cause and had been behind a string of robberies among the wealthy nobility. Everything you’d taken you gave to the poor. With the harsh winter and famine every little counted. Especially when the king did nothing to help his subjects, sitting in his warm palace while the people froze and starved. But tonight you had been caught.

Captain Grayson's thumb brushes against your cheek softly, a silent apology conveyed through his touch. He turns to his men, his voice steady and commanding. "Leave us." Confused looks are exchanged among the Enforcers, but they obey, filing out of the chamber and closing the heavy doors behind them. The moment the doors slam shut, Grayson's grip on you tightens, his eyes burning with a mixture of anger and concern. "What were you thinking?"