𝐈 𝐂𝐡𝐨𝐨𝐬𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐊𝐧𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭 teddy knight x reader
𝕿𝖆𝖌𝖘: MINORS DNI!! teddy as a knight and reader as a princess, middle age era,smut sometimes fluff, you inlove to the knight
The heavy velvet curtains of your royal bedchamber barely stirred as the first rays of dawn crept across the stone floor. You blinked awake, rubbing sleep from your eyes, and the soft golden light of a medieval morning flooded the room. Before you could even sit up, three sharp knocks sounded at the door.
"Reader," your mother’s voice called, warm yet urgent. "It is time. Today is your coronation. You must get ready."
Your heart gave a nervous flutter. Coronation day. The day you would officially be crowned princess of the realm. You slipped from the silk sheets, bare feet padding across cold flagstones, and hurried to the adjoining bathing chamber. Steam rose from the copper tub as noblewomen poured in scented oils—rose, lavender, and a hint of myrrh. You lowered yourself into the water, sighing as the heat enveloped your skin.
The noblewomen stood at a respectful distance while you bathed, but the moment your fingers brushed over your own breasts, a soft, involuntary moan escaped your lips. The sound echoed faintly off the marble walls. You froze, cheeks burning, but none of the noblewomen commented; they simply waited with towels ready. When you finally stepped out, they wrapped you in thick linen and guided you back to the dressing room.
There, laid across the carved oak bed, was your coronation gown: layers of ivory silk embroidered with gold thread, the bodice studded with tiny pearls. The noblewomen moved with practiced grace, lifting the heavy fabric over your head and fastening the dozens of tiny pearl buttons down your back. They cinched the waist with a golden sash, then draped a sheer overskirt of silver lace that shimmered like moonlight. One of them knelt to adjust the hem while another pinned a delicate tiara of white roses into your hair.
You turned to the tall mirror. The girl who looked back at you seemed older, regal, almost a stranger. The dress hugged your curves, the neckline modest yet hinting at the swell of your breasts. The noblewomen stepped back, admiring their work.
The door opened again. Your mother entered, resplendent in deep velvet, her own crown glittering. She stopped, eyes softening. "Look at my beautiful daughter." She cupped your chin, tilting your face up, and pressed a gentle kiss to your forehead.
"Mamma, I’m not a baby anymore," you protested, though a smile tugged at your lips.
"I know," she whispered, voice thick. "Forgive an old queen her sentiment." She straightened, composed once more. "Come. The ceremony begins."
You took her hand, fingers trembling slightly, and the noblewomen followed, carrying the long train of your gown so it would not drag. The corridor outside your chambers was lined with tapestries depicting your ancestors. You walked slowly, the weight of history pressing on your shoulders.
The great hall was packed. Nobles in their finest silks, knights in polished armor, soldiers standing at attention with pikes, and common folk craning their necks from the gallery above. Hundreds of eyes turned toward you as you entered. Your stomach twisted. So many people. Your father, the king, stood at the dais in his ermine-trimmed robe. He caught your gaze and gave a small, reassuring nod.
"It is all right, my daughter," he murmured as you reached him. "Do not be afraid."
You nodded, though your palms were damp. The priest stepped forward, voice booming through the hall. "From this day forth, she shall be crowned princess of the realm." Your father lifted the delicate golden circlet—smaller than his own crown but no less significant—and placed it gently upon your head. The metal was cool against your brow.
A roar of approval rose from the crowd. "Our princess!" they cried, clapping and cheering. You managed a shy smile and took your place on the smaller throne beside your father’s. The cheers continued, but one figure among the knights remained still. A tall knight in dark armor stood at the edge of the line, visor down, arms crossed. He did not clap. He simply watched you, his gaze intense, unreadable.
Hours later, the formalities dragged on. You sat on the throne, chin resting on your palm, boredom settling like a fog. The noblewomen chatted quietly beside you. You leaned toward your mother. "Mamma, I’m bored."
"It is the duty of a princess to endure such things with grace," she replied gently, then rose. "Stay here. I must speak with the duchess."
The moment she left, restlessness overtook you. You stood abruptly. "I’m going outside." Ignoring the noblewomen’s startled protests, you gathered your skirts and fled down the side corridor. Footsteps chased after you, but you were faster. You burst through the heavy oak doors into the castle courtyard.
Night had fallen while the ceremony continued inside. Torches flickered along the walls, casting long shadows. You ran toward the outer gate, desperate for fresh air, for freedom. The line of knights stood at attention, but one stepped forward as you approached.
"Princess—" he began, voice muffled by his helmet.
You darted past him, out into the dark gardens beyond the walls. The path was uneven. Your slippered foot caught on a root; you stumbled, knees slamming into the gravel. Pain flared. You cried out, tears springing to your eyes.
"Hey! The princess is not allowed outside at this hour!" The voice was stern, but you barely heard it over your own sobs. You curled on the ground, clutching your bleeding knees.
Footsteps approached. A shadow loomed. You looked up through wet lashes and saw a knight—tall, broad-shouldered, his armor dark as midnight. His visor was down, hiding his face.
"Please don’t hurt me," you whispered, shrinking back.
He knelt slowly. "I would never hurt the princess." His voice was surprisingly soft, gentle, like velvet over steel. He reached out, and you flinched, but his gloved fingers only brushed your arm. "Let me help you."
He helped you stand, but your knees buckled. With careful hands he lifted the hem of your gown just enough to inspect the damage. The gravel had torn the silk and left angry red scrapes across both knees. Blood welled in tiny beads.
"It hurts," you whimpered.
"I know." He produced a clean handkerchief from his belt and pressed it gently to the wounds. The touch was surprisingly tender. You watched him work, heart pounding for reasons that had nothing to do with fear.
When the bleeding slowed, you straightened your gown and stepped back. "What is your name?"
He hesitated, then exhaled. "It is none of your business."
You bristled. "Do not speak to the princess in that tone."
Irritation flickered across what little of his face you could see beneath the visor. Before he could reply, the noblewomen arrived, breathless. "Your Highness! Thank the stars you are safe!"
You glanced at the knight. "I am safe because the knight saved me."
He bowed stiffly. You offered a small curtsy in return. "Goodnight… knight."
Back inside the castle, your father’s fury awaited. "You left without permission! What if you had been assaulted? What if—"
The slap came fast, sharp, stinging your cheek. You gasped, tears spilling anew. Your mother rushed between you. "Stop! She is only seventeen!"
"Stop babying her," your father growled, then stormed away.
Your mother wiped your tears with gentle fingers. "I am sorry, my love. He is under much pressure."
"I am sorry too, Mamma," you whispered.
She kissed your forehead. "Go to bed. I have something for you." She placed a small stuffed bear in your arms—a simple thing of brown felt with button eyes. You clutched it to your chest, the familiar weight oddly comforting. Your mother smiled, kissed you again, and left.
You lay in bed, staring at the bear. Something about it tugged at your memory, but sleep claimed you before you could puzzle it out.
One month later, on your eighteenth birthday, the great hall was once again filled with guests. You sat at the high table, pushing food around your plate, sadness heavy in your chest. Your mother leaned close. "What is wrong, daughter?"
"Nothing, Mamma. I am just…"
Your father appeared, smiling too brightly. "Hungry? There is plenty of food. Eat, princess."
You stood so fast your chair scraped. "I cannot." You fled again, this time to the stone stairs leading to the battlements. You sat on the cold step, hugging your knees, tears threatening once more.
Footsteps approached. A familiar dark figure stopped beside you. "Are you well, Princess?"
You looked up. The same knight from the garden. "I am fine," you lied.
He sat a respectful distance away. "Why do you keep running?"
"Because no one understands. I feel trapped."
"Your parents love you," he said quietly.
"At least you trust me more than they do," you muttered.
"Do not say that. They love you in their own way."
You reached out, fingers brushing the cool metal of his helmet. "What is your name?"
He was silent for a long moment. Then, softly: "Theodore Knight. They call me Teddy for short."
Your eyes widened. The name struck something deep inside you, like a half-remembered dream. Teddy. The bear. The voice. The gentle hands. You stared at him, heart suddenly racing for an entirely different reason.
He shifted, almost uncomfortable under your gaze. "Is something wrong?"
A small laugh escaped you. "That's the name of my stuffed bear."
Teddy’s gloved hand flexed at his side. Moonlight caught the edge of his visor, and for the first time you caught a glimpse of warm eyes behind the slit. Eyes that had watched you from the shadows during your coronation. Eyes that had softened when you cried in the garden.
"Perhaps," he said, voice barely above a whisper, "we were meant to meet."
You sat together in silence, the night wind cool against your cheeks, the stuffed bear still clutched in your arms like a talisman. Somewhere deep in the castle, music and laughter continued, but here on the stairs, with the mysterious knight beside you, the world felt a little less lonely.
And as the first stars appeared overhead, you wondered if perhaps the princess and her knight were only just beginning their story.
The knight's voice stayed low and steady. "Always," he said. "Because you are the princess. That is our duty—to protect you and your parents."
You looked up at him, the sting of your father's slap still fresh on your cheek. "At least you trust me more than my parents do," you whispered.
"Don't say that. They love you."
You nodded, the sound of your own laughter surprising you. Something about the name made the knot in your chest loosen. You felt calmer already.
Curiosity got the better of you. You reached for his helmet again. He didn't stop you this time. The metal lifted away, and you saw his face for the first time—youthful, soft-featured, with a large nose and slightly parted lips that gave him a naturally quiet, absent-minded look. His large, round eyes were wide and attentive, carrying a curious innocence that made every emotion easy to read. Thick, tousled hair fell in soft, uneven layers around his face, long bangs partially covering one eye while the rest stuck out in light, windswept spikes.
Heat rushed to your cheeks. You had never seen a knight who looked like this. He couldn't possibly be a real knight.
Teddy's gloved hand came up, fingers gently catching your chin. Your breath caught. You wanted to lean in, to close the small distance between you.
Then your mother's voice echoed down the corridor. "Princess!"
You both jumped. Teddy quickly replaced his helmet, the metal sliding back into place. "I have to go," he said.
"Okay... fine, Teddy," you whispered.
Your mother appeared at the top of the stairs. "Let's go, sweetheart." She smiled when she saw you standing there, the sadness from earlier gone from your face. You smiled back at her, heart still fluttering from the brief, secret moment with the knight named Teddy.
The castle corridor stretched ahead of you, torches flickering along the stone walls as your mother’s hand rested gently on your shoulder. The sting of your father’s slap still burned across your cheek, but the memory of Teddy’s face—soft, youthful, those wide round eyes—kept replaying in your mind. You had never seen a knight look like that. He looked more like a prince to you not a knight.
Your mother guided you back toward the throne room, her voice low and soothing. “Come, sweetheart. The guests are waiting.” You smiled at her, trying to push the ache away, but your thoughts kept drifting back to the knight named Teddy.
The throne room glowed with torchlight and the low murmur of celebration. You sat on the velvet seat, your crown slightly askew, the heavy silk of your gown pooling around your legs. Your father approached slowly, his crown catching the firelight, and stopped just short of the dais.
"I'm sorry for what I did to you," he said, voice rough. "I lost my mind. I never meant to hurt you."
You turned your face away, lips pursed in a stubborn pout. Your mother stepped closer, her hand warm on your shoulder.
"You know we didn't want to hurt you," she added softly. "You're our treasure. We're so proud of the woman you're becoming."
"Really?" you whispered, the word barely audible.
"Yes," your father answered. "And don't be stubborn—you're eighteen now. A princess. Our princess."
You sighed, the fight leaving your shoulders. "Okay, Papa."
He smiled, relief softening the lines around his eyes, and pulled both you and your mother into a tight embrace. The three of you stood like that for a moment while the nobles watched, some already lifting their goblets.
"Let's begin the celebration!" your father called.
A cheer rose. "To our princess!" The hall filled with the clink of silver and the rich scent of spiced wine. You smiled at the crowd, cheeks warm, but your gaze drifted past the nobles and landed on the line of knights standing at attention along the wall.
Teddy stood among them, helmet still in place, visor down. He watched you for only a second before turning and slipping through a side door.
Inside the small comfort room, he removed the helmet and set it on the stone basin. Cold water splashed across his face. He stared at his reflection—youthful features, soft mouth, eyes that looked older than they should.
"She's kind," he muttered to the empty room. "Too kind for a knight to even dream about." His fingers tightened on the edge of the basin. "If I were a prince… I could marry her." The words tasted bitter. He groaned, low and frustrated, then forced the helmet back on and stepped out.
After the party you were still on the throne when a noblewoman leaned in, voice low and curious. "You seem distracted, Your Highness. Is there someone on your mind?"
You hesitated, then admitted, "There's a man I saw. I… have feelings for him."
"A prince, really?" she asked, already smiling.
"No. I don't need a prince anymore."
Her brows lifted. "Then who?"
"A knight," you said simply.
She recoiled as if you'd slapped her. "You mustn't. Knights are guards, nothing more. You could have any prince you wanted—"
You stood so fast the throne scraped back. "I DON'T WANT IT!" The shout cracked across the hall. Conversations died. You didn't wait for the noblewoman's reply; you gathered your skirts and ran, bare feet slapping stone as you fled the throne room.
The noblewoman called after you but didn't follow. She knew better than to chase a princess in front of the entire court.
Teddy, still in the knight line, heard every word. His gloved hand flexed at his side. When the hall quieted again, he glanced down and saw something small and glittering near his boot—a delicate hair clip shaped like a tiny flower, one of yours. He bent, picked it up, and slipped it into his gauntlet.
You stood on the eastern balcony, wind tugging at your loose hair, the night sky vast above the castle walls. Footsteps approached from behind. You didn't turn.
"Hey," a quiet voice said.
Your heart jumped. "Teddy… is that you?"
Metal clicked. He removed the helmet. Moonlight touched his face—soft jaw, earnest eyes. "Yes. You dropped this." He held out the clip.
"My clip… thank you." You took it, then impulsively stepped forward and hugged him. The armor was cold against your cheek. "I'm sorry—I shouldn't hug you. But thank you for bringing it back. My father will get angry if I lose this clip because he gave me this.…"
"Literally Because you're the princess," he said gently. "The king grows angry with any knight who lets you come to harm. It's our duty to protect the castle, and you, and your parents."
You looked up at him, close enough to count the faint freckles across his nose. Your lips parted. You wanted—needed—to kiss him.
"Princess!" Your mother's voice floated from the corridor. "It's time for bed."
You stepped back, cheeks burning. "Goodnight, Teddy."
He bowed his head. "Goodnight, Your Highness."
You walked away, the stone cold under your feet, the taste of almost-kiss still on your tongue.
Later, in your chambers, you lay curled around the old teddy bear your mother had given you years ago. The door opened; she peeked in.
"What's wrong, princess?"
"Nothing, Mama. I just need to sleep. You should rest too."
She smiled, kissed your forehead, and left.
Three hours later you were still awake, rolling from side to side, the bear clutched to your chest. Moonlight striped the bed. You stared at the toy's button eyes and made your decision.
"That's it," you whispered. "I have to go to him."
You arranged the pillows beneath the blankets, shaping them into a sleeping figure, then draped the coverlet over the top. From a distance it looked like you were still in bed. You slipped into a simple nightdress, grabbed a cloak, and padded barefoot into the corridor.
The eastern tower rose against the stars. Torches burned low in their brackets. You climbed the narrow stairs, heart hammering, until you reached the small watch room at the top. Teddy stood with his back to you, helmet off, staring out over the battlements.
He turned at the soft sound of your feet. "Princess—"
You crossed the room in three steps and threw your arms around his neck. This time there was no armor between you, only the thin linen of his shirt. His hands hovered, uncertain, then settled lightly on your waist.
"I couldn't sleep," you confessed against his collarbone. "I kept thinking about you. About what I almost did on the terrace."
“I wanted to see you again,” you admitted, stepping closer. The moonlight caught the gentle curve of his nose, the slightly parted lips that always looked a little absent-minded. “Teddy… I can’t stop thinking about your face.”
"You shouldn't be here," He swallowed, glancing around to make sure no one else was near. “It’s dangerous. If your father finds out—”
“I don’t care,” you whispered, reaching up to touch his cheek. His skin was warm beneath your fingers, so different from the cold metal of his helmet. “You make me feel calm. Like everything isn’t so heavy.”
Teddy’s gloved hand came up, covering yours. His touch was hesitant at first, then firmer, as if he couldn’t help himself. “You make me forget my duty,” he confessed quietly. “I’m supposed to protect you, not… want you.”
"I know." You tilted your face up. "Kiss me anyway."
The words hung between you, charged and trembling. You leaned in, and this time there was no mother’s voice to interrupt. Your lips brushed his—soft, tentative, tasting of the night air and the faint salt of his skin. Teddy’s breath caught. He kissed you back, one hand sliding to the small of your back, pulling you closer against the hard planes of his armor.
He hesitated one heartbeat, then bent and pressed his mouth to yours. The kiss was careful at first, almost reverent, but the moment your lips parted he groaned and deepened it. His tongue brushed yours, tasting of mint and the faint metallic tang of the helmet he'd worn all night. Your fingers slid into his hair, tugging gently, and he answered by pulling you closer until your bodies aligned from chest to hip.
You felt him harden against your stomach. Heat flooded between your legs. You rocked forward, seeking friction, and he broke the kiss with a shaky breath.
"We can't," he whispered, even as his hands slid down to cup your ass through the thin nightdress. "If anyone finds out—"
"Then don't let them find out." You nipped his lower lip. "Touch me, Teddy. Please."
He lifted you onto the narrow wooden table that served as a map desk. The cloak fell from your shoulders. He pushed the nightdress up your thighs, baring you to the cool night air. His fingers traced the soft skin above your knee, then higher, until they brushed the slick heat between your legs.
"Already wet," he murmured, almost in awe. "For me?"
"Only for you." You spread your thighs wider, inviting. "Put your fingers inside."
He obeyed, sliding two thick digits into your pussy with slow, careful thrusts. Your head tipped back; a soft moan escaped. He watched your face as he curled his fingers, finding the spot that made your hips jerk.
He dropped to his knees between your legs and replaced his fingers with his tongue. The first lick was tentative, almost shy, but when you whimpered and grabbed his hair he grew bolder, licking broad stripes over your clit before sucking it between his lips. Your thighs trembled around his head. He moaned against you, the vibration shooting straight through your core.
You came with a broken cry, thighs clamping around his ears, wetness coating his chin. He licked you through it, gentler now, until you pushed at his shoulders, oversensitive.
He stood, breathing hard, lips shiny. You reached for the laces of his breeches and freed his cock—thick, flushed, already leaking at the tip. You wrapped your hand around him and stroked once, twice, watching his eyes flutter.
"Inside me," you whispered. "I want to feel you."
He hesitated again. "Are you sure?"
You answered by guiding him to your entrance. He pushed in slowly, stretching you inch by inch, until he was buried to the hilt. You both groaned at the fullness. He stayed still for a moment, forehead pressed to yours, letting you adjust.
Then he began to move—long, deep thrusts that rocked the table beneath you. Each stroke dragged over that perfect spot inside. Your nails dug into his shoulders. He kissed you again, swallowing your moans, and picked up the pace until the only sounds were skin on skin and the wet slide of his cock in your soaked pussy.
Clothes fell away in a rush of fabric and whispered gasps. You pushed him onto the cot, straddling his hips as his cock sprang free, thick and already leaking. You sank down onto him in one smooth motion, both of you moaning at the sudden stretch. Teddy's hands gripped your waist, guiding your movements as you rode him with increasing desperation.
"Princess," he gasped, voice wrecked. "You feel—so good—"
"Harder," you begged. "Don't hold back."
"Fuck, princess," he groaned, thrusting up to meet you. "You're so tight, so perfect."
He gripped your hips and fucked you with steady, powerful strokes, the table creaking under the force. Your second orgasm built fast, heat coiling low in your belly. When he reached between you and rubbed your clit with his thumb you shattered again, clenching around him so tightly he cursed and followed you over the edge, spilling hot and deep inside you.
You leaned forward, breasts brushing his chest as you kissed him again, tongues tangling while your hips rolled in a steady rhythm. The cot creaked beneath you, the sound mixing with the wet slap of skin on skin and your shared moans.
He stayed buried in you while you both caught your breath. His thumb stroked your hip in slow circles. Eventually he eased out, and you felt his cum trickle down your thigh. He caught it with his fingers and pushed it gently back inside, almost possessive.
You smiled, lazy and sated. "Stay with me a little longer."
He helped you down from the table, then sat on the bench and pulled you into his lap. You rested your head on his shoulder while his hand stroked your back beneath the nightdress.
Teddy flipped you suddenly, pinning you beneath him. He drove into you harder, deeper, his cock hitting that spot inside you that made stars burst behind your eyelids. Your legs wrapped around his waist, heels digging into his back as he fucked you with increasing urgency.
"Teddy," you gasped, "I'm close—"
"This changes everything," he said quietly.
"I know." You kissed the underside of his jaw. "And I don't care. I want you, Teddy. Knight or not."
He reached between your bodies, thumb circling your clit as he maintained his rhythm. Your orgasm crashed over you in waves, pussy clenching around his cock as you cried out. Teddy followed moments later, burying himself deep as he filled you with hot spurts of cum.
But for now, in the quiet tower room, you stayed wrapped in his arms, the taste of him still on your tongue and the ache between your legs a sweet reminder that, for one stolen night, the princess had chosen her knight.
You lay tangled together afterward, his softening cock still inside you, his fingers tracing lazy patterns on your bare shoulder. The world outside the tower felt distant, unreal.
He nodded, and the two of you stood there under the stars,. For the first time since your father’s anger, you felt truly safe—wrapped in the arms of a knight named Teddy who looked nothing like the stories, but felt exactly like the one you had been waiting for.
But reality intruded all too soon. You sat up, reaching for your discarded gown. Teddy watched you with heavy-lidded eyes as you dressed, the silk sliding over your skin still damp with sweat.
"I'm going back to the chamber," you whispered, fastening the last pearl button. "My father will find me."
Teddy sat up, the sheet pooling around his naked hips. His cock, still glistening with your combined fluids, rested against his thigh. "Stay," he pleaded softly. "Just a little longer."
You shook your head, though your heart ached at the sight of him—young, beautiful, vulnerable in the moonlight. You leaned down and kissed him one last time, slow and deep, tasting yourself on his lips.
"Goodnight, Teddy," you murmured against his mouth.
Then you slipped out the door, leaving him naked and alone in the narrow bed, the taste of him still lingering on your tongue.
The heavy oak door of your royal chamber clicked shut behind you, the sound echoing through the vast stone room like a final sigh. Moonlight filtered through the tall arched windows, casting silver patterns across the silk canopy of your bed. You moved slowly, the weight of the evening pressing down on your shoulders as you crossed the room and collapsed onto the feather mattress. The sheets still carried the faint scent of lavender from the morning's washing.
Reaching for the worn teddy bear that had been your companion, you pulled it close to your chest. Its button eyes stared back at you with the same gentle understanding they always had. "Goodnight," you murmured against its soft fur, your voice barely a whisper in the darkness. Sleep came fitfully, filled with dreams of armored knights and forbidden kisses.
The next afternoon found you wandering the castle corridors with a small entourage of noblewomen trailing behind like colorful shadows. Their silk gowns rustled against the stone floors as they gossiped about court matters and upcoming festivals. You moved through the familiar passages with practiced grace, though your mind wandered far from their chatter.
The castle gardens offered a welcome escape from their constant presence. You settled on a marble bench beneath the shade of an ancient oak tree, watching the fountain's gentle spray catch the afternoon light. The noblewomen maintained a respectful distance, their voices a soft murmur in the background.
Footsteps approached on the gravel path, and you looked up to see a familiar figure in gleaming armor. Teddy moved with quiet confidence, his presence immediately calming the restless energy that had been building in your chest all day. He sat beside you without a word, the bench creaking slightly under his added weight.
The noblewomen's reaction was immediate and sharp. "Hey! Knights are not allowed in the royal gardens!" one of them called out, her voice carrying across the manicured lawns.
A smile broke across your face as recognition dawned. "Teddy, it's you," you breathed, turning to wrap your arms around him in a warm embrace. The metal of his armor was cool against your cheek, but his presence brought instant comfort.
"Who is that knight?" another noblewoman demanded, stepping closer with narrowed eyes.
"It's him," you replied simply, your voice carrying a note of quiet pride.
"What, is that your lover?" The question hung in the air like an accusation.
You nodded without hesitation, your chin lifting slightly. "I want to see his face," you announced, reaching for the straps of his helmet. Teddy's hand caught yours gently but firmly, preventing the removal. His fingers moved in the graceful patterns of sign language: "NO."
You laughed softly at his shyness, turning back to the noblewomen. "He's shy," you explained with fond amusement.
"It's just a knight," the woman scoffed. "You should marry a prince, not some common soldier."
Your expression hardened as you rose from the bench and stepped closer to her. "Don't you dare talk to your princess like that," you said, your voice carrying the authority of your position.
The noblewoman's face flushed with embarrassment. "I'm sorry, Your Highness," she stammered, dropping into a hasty curtsy.
"It's alright," you replied, your tone softening slightly. You returned to Teddy's side, your fingers brushing against his armored hand. "I have to go to my throne now," you told him quietly. He nodded in understanding.
Turning back to the noblewomen, you straightened your shoulders. "Let's go now," you commanded, leading them away from the garden and back toward the castle's interior.
The throne room felt colder than usual as you settled onto the ornate chair beside your father's. The weight of the crown seemed heavier today, pressing down on your temples like a physical reminder of your duties. Your father approached with purposeful strides, his expression serious as he drew near.
"Papa, what is it?" you asked, noting the tension in his shoulders.
"You're getting arranged to marry the richest prince in the world," he announced without preamble. "You should prepare yourself. The wedding will be in one week."
The words hit you like a physical blow. "What?" The question escaped as barely more than a whisper.
Your mother stepped forward, her hands clasped in front of her. "You're of legal age now, daughter. It's time for you to marry and secure our kingdom's future."
Tears welled in your eyes, spilling over before you could stop them. "I don't want to marry a prince," you cried, your voice breaking on the words.
"Daughter, stop crying," your mother said firmly, reaching out to lift your chin. "Look at me."
"Mama, Papa, please," you begged, your tears flowing freely now. "I don't want to get married."
"Just marry the prince," your father insisted. "He's wealthy beyond measure. This alliance will benefit our entire kingdom."
"No," you whispered, then louder: "No, no!" The word echoed through the throne room as you fled from your parents, your footsteps echoing against the marble floors.
Your chamber became your sanctuary as you threw yourself onto the bed, sobs wracking your body. The tears seemed endless, each one carrying the weight of your shattered dreams and the future being forced upon you.
Morning brought no relief. You sat at the dining table with your family, pushing food around your plate without appetite. The morning light streamed through the tall windows, but it felt cold and distant.
"You should eat," your mother said gently. "It's going to waste."
The words snapped something inside you. You slammed your hand against the table, the sound sharp in the quiet room. "I don't want to!" The outburst surprised even you as you pushed away from the table and fled once more.
"Come back here!" your mother called after you, but your father's voice cut through the air.
"Just ignore her," he said dismissively. "She'll come around."
The garden called to you again, its familiar paths offering the only comfort you could find. You settled on the same marble bench, the morning dew still clinging to the grass around you. The world felt muted, colors dulled by your grief.
Teddy's approach was silent, his presence announced only by the soft crunch of gravel beneath his boots. You looked up to see him standing before you, concern etched across his features even through the helmet's narrow visor.
"Teddy," you whispered, rising to embrace him once more. This time, he removed his helmet completely, revealing his youthful face and gentle eyes. The morning light caught in his hair, turning it golden.
"You look sad," he said, his voice soft and concerned. "Is everything alright?"
"I don't want to marry the prince," you confessed, fresh tears threatening to fall.
"Yeah, I heard about that," he replied quietly.
"Really? You don't get jealous?" The question came out smaller than you intended, your voice barely audible.
Teddy laughed, but the sound was hollow, lacking its usual warmth. "No, I'm not jealous. It's just normal for a princess. You're of legal age now. This is literally your first time being a princess in the eyes of the court."
"You're the one I love, Teddy," you cried, throwing your arms around him once more. "I love you, not some prince I've never met."
His arms came around you, strong and steady. "Stop crying," he murmured against your hair. "Me too. You're the one I love."
The words broke something open inside you. You pulled back just enough to see his face, then leaned in to kiss him. The kiss was desperate and tender all at once, carrying all the words you couldn't speak and all the fears you couldn't name. His lips were warm against yours, tasting of morning dew and unspoken promises.
When the kiss finally broke, you stepped back reluctantly. "I'm sorry, Teddy," you whispered, your voice thick with emotion. "I have to go inside now."
He nodded in understanding, though his eyes held the same sadness that filled your heart. You turned away from him, each step toward the castle feeling like a step away from everything you truly wanted. The weight of your crown seemed to grow heavier with each passing moment, and the path ahead stretched out before you like an endless corridor of duty and sacrifice.
As you disappeared into the castle's shadows, Teddy remained in the garden, watching your retreating figure with eyes that held both love and helplessness. The morning breeze stirred the leaves around him, carrying away the echoes of your whispered goodbye and leaving only the promise of tomorrow's uncertain dawn.
The heavy oak doors of the castle's grand entrance swung open with a groan that echoed through the marble halls. Your footsteps faltered as you stepped inside, immediately spotting the cluster of figures gathered near the throne room. Your parents stood with another regal couple, their expensive silks and jewels catching the afternoon light. Between them stood a young man with golden hair and calculating eyes - Prince Tristan.
His gaze found you instantly, a predatory smile curving his lips. You looked away sharply, your stomach churning with revulsion at the sight of him.
"Reader!" your father's voice boomed across the hall. "Come here, I want you to meet Prince Tristan."
"No thanks," you replied coldly, your voice carrying across the marble floors.
Your father's hand shot out, gripping your arm with bruising force. He yanked you forward, his fingers digging into your skin.
"Papa, I'm hurt," you gasped, trying to pull away.
"Don't be stubborn," he hissed through clenched teeth, dragging you closer to the prince.
Prince Tristan stepped forward with practiced grace, his bow perfectly executed. "I'm Prince Tristan. It's nice to meet you," he said, his voice smooth as silk.
"I know," you replied flatly, crossing your arms tightly over your chest and turning your face away from him.
Your father patted your shoulder with false warmth. "Don't be rude, reader."
"I've prepared dinner for everyone," your mother announced, clapping her hands together. "Let's all eat together."
The procession to the dining hall felt like a funeral march. Prince Tristan pulled out the chair beside him with a flourish, but you deliberately chose the seat across from him instead. He simply smiled and moved to sit beside you anyway, his presence making your skin crawl.
The meal began in tense silence. You picked at your food without appetite, pushing vegetables around your plate. Suddenly, you felt Tristan's hand on your thigh beneath the table, his fingers creeping upward. Without hesitation, you brought your heel down hard on his foot.
"Ouch!" he hissed, jerking his hand away.
"I hate you," you whispered, your voice barely audible.
"Well," your father said, raising his wine glass, "the wedding is in one week. We should give them time to get to know each other, especially since she seems to dislike him so much."
Tristan's parents nodded in agreement, raising their own glasses. "To the happy couple," they toasted, the crystal clinking together like a death knell.
You remained silent, staring at your untouched plate as the conversation continued around you.
One week later, you stood before a full-length mirror in your wedding gown. The white silk and lace felt like a shroud, the heavy fabric weighing you down. Tears streamed down your face as the noblewomen fussed around you, adjusting your veil and arranging your train.
"I can't marry Prince Tristan," you sobbed, your shoulders shaking. "I won't do it."
The ceremony passed in a blur of faces and voices. You stood beside Tristan at the altar, your hands trembling as the priest droned on about love and duty. Your eyes drifted to the side, where you spotted Teddy standing among the knights. His face was pale, his eyes filled with a pain that mirrored your own.
"I'm sorry, Teddy," you whispered, fresh tears rolling down your cheeks.
Teddy's expression remained stoic, but his eyes betrayed his heartbreak. He watched as you exchanged rings with Tristan, his hands clenching into fists at his sides.
The moment the priest pronounced you husband and wife, you fled. Your wedding dress tangled around your legs as you ran through the castle corridors, your sobs echoing off the stone walls. You burst into your chamber and threw yourself onto the bed, the tears flowing freely now.
"Why is this happening?" you cried into your pillow. "I want Teddy so badly. I love him, not Tristan."
Your mother and several noblewomen entered the room, their footsteps soft on the carpet.
"What's wrong, darling?" your mother asked, sitting beside you on the bed.
"Mama, I don't like him," you sobbed. "I don't want to be married to him."
"Why? It's been a week, and you haven't even tried to get to know each other," she said, stroking your hair.
You continued crying, your body shaking with each sob.
"Your Highness, I have to tell you something," one of the noblewomen said hesitantly.
"Yes, what is it?" your mother asked.
"She has feelings for someone else. I don't know who, but—"
"What a stupid idea," your mother snapped. "Get out of this room."
"Yes, Your Highness," the noblewoman curtsied and hurried out.
"It's fine, Reader," your mother said softly. "This is your first time being married. It's normal to feel overwhelmed."
The door opened again, and Prince Tristan stepped inside. "What's the matter?" he asked, his voice concerned.
You looked up at him with red-rimmed eyes. "Get out," you said coldly.
Tristan hesitated for a moment before nodding and leaving the room.
Meanwhile, in the knights' quarters, Teddy stood before a cracked mirror in his small room. His reflection stared back at him with hollow eyes, the weight of what he'd witnessed pressing down on his chest like a physical burden. The image of you in your wedding dress, standing beside another man, replayed in his mind like a cruel torture.
He reached up to touch his face, his fingers tracing the lines of sadness etched around his eyes. The helmet he'd worn for so long had hidden his expressions, but now, alone in his room, there was no need for pretense.
With a heavy sigh, he moved to his narrow bed and lay down, staring at the ceiling. The sounds of the wedding celebration drifted through the castle walls - music, laughter, the clinking of glasses. Each sound was a reminder of what he'd lost.
Teddy closed his eyes, but sleep wouldn't come. Instead, he saw your face as you'd looked at him during the ceremony, your whispered apology echoing in his ears. He remembered the feel of your lips against his in the garden, the way you'd held him when you were sad, the trust in your eyes when you'd told him you loved him.
"I'm sorry too," he whispered to the empty room, his voice barely audible. "I should have fought harder for you."
The night stretched on endlessly as Teddy lay awake, his heart heavy with the knowledge that the woman he loved was now married to another. The castle's stone walls seemed to close in around him, and for the first time in his life, he felt truly trapped by circumstances beyond his control.
As the hours passed, Teddy's mind wandered to thoughts of escape - of taking you away from this place, from the arranged marriage, from the life that had been forced upon you both. But he knew such dreams were impossible. You were a princess, bound by duty and blood, and he was merely a knight with nothing to offer but his heart.
The first light of dawn began to creep through his small window, and still Teddy lay awake, his thoughts consumed by the woman he could never have and the future that stretched out before him like an endless, empty road.
