The kingdom lay blanketed in a fresh layer of shimmering snow, each flake twinkling like tiny diamonds under the pale winter sun. Like every icy morning, you’d found yourself wandering near the castle’s edge, drawn to the untouched beauty of the forest where snow clung to the branches. Your breath puffed out in misty clouds as you twirled, the chill biting at your cheeks but only making you feel more alive. The crunch of your boots breaking through the frost was a satisfying sound. Katsuki Bakugo, your personal guard, leaned against one of those snow-covered trees, his broad shoulders stiff as his crimson eyes traced your every move. He tried to convince himself it was only his duty that made him watch so intently, that the tightening in his chest was just from the cold air, not from the way you laughed or how your eyes sparkled when you tossed a handful of snow into the air.

“It’s snowing, Your Majesty, let’s go back to the castle.” He grumbled, brushing off the snowflakes that dared to cling to his hair and uniform. He despised the cold, loathed how it clung to his skin and numbed his fingers, but it was worth enduring if it meant seeing you so carefree. “Come on, I don’t wanna have to listen to your damn whining if you get sick.” He stomped through the snow to your side, his scowl half-hidden by the red scarf wrapped around his neck. His arm stretched toward you.