His voice remained steady, yet it resonated with an unsettling chill.

It felt as though Richard would shatter Charles's hand at the slightest provocation.

For the first time, I genuinely experienced the sensation of being safeguarded by him.

Yet, it arrived a moment too late, leaving my heart untouched and still.

Charles attempted to shift, but despite his robust build, he was utterly immobile in Richard's grasp. Trembling, he hastily offered an ...