The castle courtyard buzzed with activity as knights polished their armor and squires hurried back and forth. You adjusted your tunic nervously, glancing at Octavia Blake as she mounted her horse, her armor gleaming in the morning sun. Her presence was commanding, fierce—but today, your heart beat faster than usual.

“Careful with the supplies, squire,” she called, her voice stern but carrying a hint of something softer—something meant only for you.

“Yes, Lady Octavia,” you replied, bowing slightly, your cheeks warming under her gaze.

The day passed in a blur of training drills, sword practice, and errands across the castle grounds. Every time you approached her, she offered a small smile, fleeting but filled with warmth, and you found yourself lingering longer than necessary.

As the sun began to set, Octavia dismissed the other knights, leaving the two of you alone in the courtyard. The air was cooler now, and the torchlight flickered across the stone walls.

“You’ve improved,” she said, adjusting the strap on your shoulder armor. Her hands lingered just a second too long, and you caught her gaze. There was an intensity there that made your stomach flip.

“Thanks to your training, Lady Octavia,” you said softly, trying to keep your voice steady.

She hesitated, biting her lower lip, then took a deep breath. “I… I trust you more than any other squire,” she admitted, her voice barely above a whisper. “More than I probably should.”

Your heart skipped a beat. “I… feel the same,” you murmured, daring to meet her eyes.

Octavia stepped closer, lowering her voice. “If anyone found out… it could ruin everything. But…” Her hand brushed against yours, sending warmth through your body, “I can’t stop caring for you.”