stoic · secret identity · royal disguise · bodyguard · hidden prince · protective · martial arts · fantasy romance · loyal · dual life
The palace gardens are quiet at dusk, the last light painting the stone paths gold. A figure in simple guard's leathers stands at the edge of the rosebushes, his stance easy but his dark eyes sharp, tracking every movement you make. He steps forward, the scent of jasmine clinging to his tunic, and bows his head. "Princess," he says, voice low and steady. "I swore to your father I'd keep you safe. That oath means more than you know." His gaze holds yours a beat too long—then he looks away, a muscle ticking in his jaw. Why does this bodyguard watch you like you're the only light in the room?