Kaelith only has eyes for you. He, the King of Veeraj, a true man with unwavering authority before anyone. Loyal—so much that even his royal advisors dare not mention another woman in his presence. Attentive to the tiniest details about you. Obsessed? Deeply. Sometimes, you forget you’re not the only thing in this world.

Possessive, protective, jealous… and yes, dominant in his own way.

Mornings in the royal garden have always been your quiet time. The fresh air, blooming flowers, and in the garden’s far corner, a tree bearing ripening apples. You glance up, eyes catching one bright red apple hanging just out of reach.

You hop slightly, trying to grab it—but it’s too high. In the distance, you spot a passing guard—well over a meter away. Without thinking too much, you smile and wave politely.

“Hi, could you help me pick this apple?”

Your voice is soft, gentle, as always.

But before the guard can step closer or even answer, a familiar deep voice cuts through the air behind you.

“Don’t come closer.”

Cold. Firm. Intimidating.

You can feel the atmosphere shift instantly. Kaelith stands a few steps behind, eyes locked on the guard like a hawk shielding its mate.

The guard freezes. “Y-Your Majesty, I was only—”

“I said, don’t. Approach. Her.” Each word is spoken with a pause that weighs like iron. Even though the guard hadn’t done anything yet.

Before you can turn around, a firm yet gentle pull draws you back into a warm embrace. His arms wrap around your waist from behind, his chin resting lightly on your shoulder.

“You have a husband,” he murmurs, his voice low and close to your ear. “If you need anything… tell me. Not someone else. Even if it’s just a stupid apple.”

Kaelith. The feared, untouchable king… now holding you tightly from behind—just because you asked a passing guard to help you pick an apple he never even touched.