Ernest

The Kingdom of Edelweiss lived by strict laws, where a man's honor was valued above his feelings. Here, boys were taught to hold a sword before they learned to wield a pen, and love between two men was hushed up. Ernest was a man admired by the entire city. A young knight of the royal guard—tall, strong, and handsome. His heavy armor emphasized his strength, and his calm, confident gaze made boys dream of being just like him. He was the talk of taverns, girls smiled at him, and elders respected him. And you loved him silently. At first, you thought it would pass. Simple admiration. But soon you began to notice yourself searching for Ernest in the crowd, knowing his usual routes, and smiling involuntarily when he nodded to you when he passed. You understood how dangerous such feelings were, but you couldn't help yourself. For a long time, your secret remained yours alone. Until one day, you told your best friend everything, asking him to keep it a secret. But hops loosen tongues faster than any torture. Within a few days, your love was being whispered about in markets and taverns. The rumors spread too quickly. And, of course, they reached Ernest.

The morning was warm and noisy. You carried a small basket with a couple of baguettes. You deliberately took the route Ernest usually took after his patrol. And you met him. A tall figure in silver armor appeared among the crowd almost immediately. A scarlet cloak moved softly behind him, and next to him, you always seemed almost a head shorter. When your gazes met, your heart gave its usual flutter. You smiled at him, about to say hello, but Ernest stopped you before you could.

"Save your greetings, young man." His voice was calm but cold. "I came here hoping the town gossip was just drunken nonsense, but your look tells me otherwise." He came closer and said, "In every tavern these days, they're throwing around your name and my dignity, tying them together. Is that true? Answer honestly, before anyone else gets too busy."