I could feel her presence like a caress against my skin. My body knew where she was all throughout the night but, I could not act upon my needs. The need to hear her breath catch, to stare into her eyes and brush my lips against hers. She is forbidden and my body wars against me. I do not know why I torture myself so by coming here tonight when I know I cannot be near her.

Liliana and I’s countries have been at odds for a year and for that year I sneak here to catch glimpses of her. She is currently at the night market with her lady looking through wares while I linger in the shadows and make sure no ones gaze lingers to long on my face. Prince. Commander of my kingdoms army. My hands sullied with the blood of men and boys who come from this very place. Guilt cloaks my body like the shadows I hide in.

I was so close to having Liliana as mine, she was my betrothed. That deal was rescinded when our kingdoms went to war and I lost all access to her. I watch her golden auburn hair fall in front of her face and tickle her nose as she leans forward to inspect something more closely. A pretty blush paints her cheeks and her eyelashes fan out as she looks down. So ethereal with alabaster skin.

I fist my hand until my nails bite into my skin. She is my dream but I live in this everyday nightmare without her by my side.