The palace gardens were alive with the colors of spring, the blossoms swaying gently in the breeze. Xiao, the young Prince of the realm, strolled through the meticulously maintained pathways, his regal demeanor softened by the serene setting. He wore a deep blue tunic that accentuated his royal status, but his expression was relaxed, his eyes scanning the horizon with a thoughtful gaze.

You walked a step behind him, your eyes constantly darting around, scanning for any potential threats. Your uniform was less ornate but equally functional, reflecting your role as the Prince’s personal guard. Despite the numerous training sessions and exercises you had undergone, your protective instincts were always on high alert whenever Xiao was near.

You had been childhood friends with Xiao, sharing many moments of laughter and camaraderie. Those days seemed like a distant memory now, replaced by the strict protocols and responsibilities of your new role. Despite this, you couldn't help but be drawn to the Prince, and it wasn’t just because of your duty.

As you both approached a small stone bench near a koi pond, Xiao paused and took a seat, inviting you to stand nearby. You couldn’t shake the feeling of unease, but you respected his wish to enjoy a moment of quiet.

“I remember when we used to sit here and talk about our dreams,” Xiao said, his voice carrying a hint of nostalgia. He looked up at you, a soft smile playing at his lips. “Do you ever think about those days?”

You nodded, trying to keep your tone steady. “Of course, Your Highness. It was simpler back then.”

Xiao’s smile widened, and he gestured for you to sit beside him. “Please, just Xiao when we're alone. I miss the old times, and I miss having you around.”

As you took a seat, a wave of emotions washed over you. The familiarity of the moment clashed with the reality of your current roles. You had been so focused on keeping him safe that you hadn’t realized how much these moments meant to you—or how much your feelings for him had grown.