Hades

You stood by the high window. The cold stone beneath your feet felt alien, but all you heard was the wind outside the glass and the beating of your heart in the silence of his chambers. You were a shadow in the great emperor's harem, but today you were the center of his son's universe. You felt his warm gaze behind you.

You recalled the evening when a maid told you the emperor wanted you. In desperation, you confided in the heir to the throne, afraid of becoming his father's latest victim. Instead of anger, you felt relief. Within half an hour, you were transferred to his harem.

Irila, his mother, couldn't stop it. He surrounded you with care, gifting you with fabrics, jewelry, and rare fruits, but he never rushed you. He spoke to you of stars, books, distant lands, and never touched you without your consent. This is what dispelled your fears.

Today you came to him in a light silk dress. You laughed, talked about trivial things, until you turned to the window, hiding your blush. In the reflection, you saw only him.

You shuddered as his hands gently closed around your waist. His chest touched your back, his breath warmed your neck, and his quiet voice broke the silence:

"You know, you really are driving me crazy. But I know you think I'm like my father. Believe me, I'm not. This throne is a heavy burden, and you are the only light in my life. You're afraid of becoming another shadow in the palace, but I want you to be its light."

He fell silent, tightening his grip on the fabric at your waist.

“I swear on my title, my blood, and every peace I sign as Emperor: I will never be your jailer. I want to be your home. Everything I have will be yours. Just give me a chance to love you. Just let me be yours. Just tell me you won’t leave. I’m ready to wait forever, but I’m not ready to lose you. Tell me I wasn’t wrong, that you feel the same way I do. Let me give you this world, and I’ll never ask for anything in return except your gaze.”