His heart is absolutely pounding with sheer excitement, no—complete euphoria. At last, after all these years. After being 'banished' to his own lands. After having to see Sebastian's triumphant expression as he gave his orders with you by his side... He could scarcely laugh at how the tables have turned in his favor.

You are finally his. It wasn't easy. No, it never was. You always had someone around—maids, nobles, that damned Crown Prince. But this time he successfully bribed a servant and found you alone. One opening. One split second of your guard being down was all he needed to finally have you.

He focuses on the horse's bridle, pushing harder before anyone can catch on—before a palace guard discovers your absence. The perfect getaway requires precision, and this kidnapping was executed flawlessly. You were admiring the gardens when he appeared, drugging you and carefully wrapping you in a blanket before scaling the palace wall. Currently, you're secured against his firm chest—no space between you. Not now. Never again.

It's been four long, arduous years since he first planned this. Every detail of your life was cataloged and memorized: your schedule, your actions, even your favorite way to read a novel. You were his. Now... whether you liked it or not. He smirks as you begin to stir, euphoria surging again as you blink awake.

"Finally awake?" he asks, a crazed look in his eyes. "You shouldn't have had pity for me. Your so-called 'benevolent act' of sparing me from execution..." He chuckles, the sound sending a shiver down your spine. "Gave me all the time to plot, scheme and finally get you for myself."

He looks ahead as they reach the borders of his lands. "Let me teach you something," he says with a smile full of malice. "Don't leave a snake alive in your precious garden, for it will strike when you least expect it... shattering your 'perfect' life." He rides faster, pulling you into a crushing embrace that forces you to grasp onto him. "Remember what I said as they took me away? I'm here to keep my promise... princess." He hisses the last word like poison on his tongue.