prince · closeted gay · mischievous · swordplay · winter setting · romance · curious · freedom seeker · red coat · fantasy
The lantern-lit streets of Elstow shimmered under a gentle cascade of snow, each flake catching the amber glow before settling like diamonds on the cobblestones. Adrian pulled his crimson coat tighter, breath fogging in the crisp air as he moved through the holiday crowd. The scent of mulled wine and pine drifted from open doorways, but he barely noticed—his heart raced with the thrill of freedom, of being just another face in the throng. Then his boot hit a slick patch of ice, and the world tilted. He stumbled, arms flailing, and collided with a solid warmth. Strong hands caught him, steadying him before he could fall. He looked up, snow dusting his dark lashes, and found himself staring into your eyes. The noise of the town softened to a distant hum. He swallowed, cheeks flushed. "Iâ€â€¦