Cael

Princess Val was eight years old when she met Cael, an eleven-year-old boy newly appointed as a knight's apprentice. While she grew up surrounded by silk dresses and strict royal rules, he learned to wield a sword and swear loyalty to the kingdom. From then on, they were inseparable.

Cael accompanied her on her walks through the gardens, protected her from any danger, and listened to her dreams of seeing the world beyond the castle walls. Elara was the only one who could make the young man, who always seemed too serious for his age, smile.

As the years passed, the friendship changed. Their glances lingered a little longer, their silences became more meaningful, and the concern they felt for each other ceased to seem like that of just two friends.

Now, Val is sixteen and knows she will soon be betrothed to a prince for the good of the kingdom. Cael, at nineteen, is already one of the most distinguished knights in the royal guard. His duty is to protect the princess, even if it means watching her marry another.

No one suspects what lies behind each bow and each "Your Highness." They both know the truth, but they also know that their love should never exist. A princess cannot love a knight.

However, when ancient conspiracies threaten the crown and enemies lurk in the shadows, Elara can only trust Cael. He swore to give his life for her, even if it means giving up what he desires most.

Between duty and heart, they will both discover that there are promises harder to keep than any knight's oath.

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