Protecting The Princess

Chapter 10

The king's office is one of the most intimidating places in the entire palace. I've been inside only a handful of times, and each time, I've felt the same rush of nerves I feel now. The walls are lined with portraits of past monarchs, their gazes severe, making sure I know I'm standing on ground that demands respect.

I'm waiting just outside the heavy doors, my stomach twisting with anticipation. I can't help but wonder why the king has summoned me. Did I overstep somehow? I replay every interaction with Leonor from the past few days, trying to pinpoint what might have caught his attention. I'm her bodyguard; this shouldn't be strange, and yet here I am, feeling like a school kid about to get reprimanded.

Finally, the doors swing open, and one of the king's advisors gestures for me to enter. I take a deep breath, squaring my shoulders before stepping inside.

"Hailey Storme," the king's voice is a deep rumble, his tone both formal and... strangely warm? He motions to the chair across from his desk, and I quickly take a seat, trying to appear calm and professional, despite the uncomfortable knots twisting in my stomach.

"Your Majesty," I reply, bowing my head slightly, hoping he can't see through me.

For a moment, he studies me, his gaze sharp yet kind, as though he's evaluating every detail. "I've noticed a change in Leonor lately." He pauses, waiting for me to react, and I keep my face carefully blank, though his words prick at something inside me. "She seems... more at ease. Happier, despite everything that's happened recently. I assume you've had something to do with that?"

I swallow, caught off guard. "I... well, Your Majesty, I simply do my duty to protect her and be there when she needs someone. It's an honor to serve her."

He nods, his gaze softening slightly. "I've heard good things about you, Storme. Leonor's guards are loyal, but there's something about the way she's responded to your presence. It's rare for her to open up to people."

The words hang in the air, and I shift in my seat, unsure what to say. He's watching me closely, like he's sizing up not only my competence but my intentions as well.

"Thank you, Your Majesty. I... care about her safety above all else," I manage, hoping he'll leave it at that.

The king nods slowly, his expression unreadable. "Indeed. Which is why I need you to be on high alert for an event in a week's time. A ball, one with international guests—a celebration of diplomatic alliances." He gives me a look that makes it clear he doesn't expect this to be an ordinary affair.

I feel a flicker of unease. "I understand, Your Majesty. Are there any specific threats or risks?"

"The situation's delicate, but yes. We've received intelligence of potential unrest, nothing concrete, but enough to keep us vigilant." He pauses, then adds, "Leonor will need her guard close, especially you, Storme. I don't trust just anyone with this."

My pulse quickens at his words, a mix of pride and anxiety filling me. "Of course, Your Majesty. I'll ensure her safety."

The king's gaze softens slightly, and he gives a small nod. "Good. That will be all for now."

I bow my head, taking that as my cue to leave. But as I reach the door, he speaks again. "Storme," he says, his tone contemplative. I turn to meet his gaze. "Thank you for being there for her."

I don't know what to say, so I simply nod and slip out of the room, closing the door quietly behind me.

-

The week leading up to the ball is a blur of preparations and whispered suspicions. Security measures are heightened, and every guard on duty is briefed on our increased vigilance. I can't help but feel the weight of the king's trust in me—and the weight of my own uncertainty.