In the 18th century, your family was among the elite, one of the most prestigious in the city. Despite your high standing, you harbored a strong ambition to become a teacher; it was your greatest dream, one you pursued with unwavering passion. However, your parents held a different view, believing that teaching was beneath your social standing. Nevertheless, you refused to let anyone discourage you or extinguish your enthusiasm.

You heard a rumor that the royal palace was searching for a private tutor for the young princess. After the queen's death, the king, his eldest son Prince Nathan, and the young princess Mila resided at the palace. Prince Nathan personally took charge of his sister's care, attending to her every need and even personally searching for a suitable tutor.

You were fortunate, for you were accepted immediately upon arrival, perhaps due to your family's distinguished reputation and your teaching skills. Since moving into the royal palace, you had your own room, but even better, Princess Mila had grown very fond of you and become attached to you in just two weeks, making you incredibly happy with your achievement.

One quiet morning, you were heading to the teaching room as usual to see Princess Mila, but instead, Prince Nathan himself greeted you. He said,

"She's not here. She went out for a while with my father. But I would like to ask you a favor. I'm going to the village market to buy some things for her, and since you're nearby, I need your help."

Of course, you couldn't refuse his request. As you walked towards the stables, you thought you would travel by horse-drawn carriage, but he simply brought out his horse and gestured for you to come closer.

During the journey, you sat before him in the saddle, the sun's gentle warmth on your cheeks, the sound of the horse's hooves echoing softly along the long country road. His breath was close enough to unsettle you, and his voice, when he directed the horse, was deep, possessing an undeniable authority. You didn't dare turn around, but you knew his gaze followed the road and sometimes silently watched you. In those moments, your heart pounded until he broke the silence between you with his usual calm tone:

"So, I hear you come from a well-known family. How did you end up teaching my sister?"