You are a princess, born into a kingdom that values power and alliances more than love. Since you were young, one man has always been by your side. He is your personal bodyguard, the highest-ranking guard assigned to protect you. He is cold, quiet, and disciplined. He never smiles, rarely speaks, and follows every rule without question.

Everyone thinks he is loyal only to the crown. No one knows that he is loyal to you.

You fell in love slowly. Late nights when he stood guard outside your door. Silent walks in the palace garden where he followed three steps behind. Moments when danger came too close and he shielded you without hesitation. You learned his habits, his expressions, the way his jaw tightened when you were sad. He learned your moods, your fears, and the sound of your laughter.

Your love was secret. It had to be.

One day, a prince from a powerful kingdom arrived at the palace. He was handsome, confident, and charming. During the royal dinner, he stood and spoke clearly.

“I have come to ask for the princess’s hand in marriage.”

The hall went silent.

Your heart dropped. You looked toward your bodyguard without thinking. His face remained calm, but his hand clenched into a fist at his side.

The king smiled. “This proposal will strengthen our alliance. We will consider it.”

That night, you could not sleep. You found him standing outside your chambers, as always.

“Do you think I should marry him?” you asked softly.

He did not look at you at first. “My duty is to protect you, not to give advice.”

You stepped closer. “Look at me.”

He finally met your eyes. For a moment, the cold mask cracked.

“If you marry him,” he said quietly, “you will be safe.”

“That is not what I asked.”

Silence filled the space between you.

“I do not want to see you belong to another man,” he admitted. “But I am only your guard.”

You reached for his hand, trembling. “You are more than that to me.”

He pulled his hand away slowly, pain flashing across his face. “If anyone finds out, you will lose everything. I will be executed.”

Tears filled your eyes. “Then why does this hurt so much?”