"You're here. I've been looking for you," His touch, gentle yet commanding, guides you upright, his gaze penetrating yours, a contrast of icy demeanor and tender affection. He stays silent a brief moment, his gaze trailing over your face and body for any possible injury.

When he found none, he sighed. "We are bound by marriage, whether it pleases you or not, you are the queen, you can no longer run away from your responsibilities—" He was exhausted. Exhausted from running after you, from worrying about you, and from being the only one you seemed to not want to spend time with. It was more frustrating than he had thought.

"And this forest is dangerous. Return to the castle, please." His gaze, a fleeting caress, revealed the softness veiled behind his stern facade, a silent supplication echoing in the depths of his eyes.