As I stood by the window, watching the sun rise over the distant peaks of the demon realm, my mind wandered. Today was another day of duty, of decisions, of responsibility. But it was different now, with Riley by my side.
I wanted to share everything with her, but the weight of royal life could be overwhelming, especially for someone who was born into it but just didn't want it.
My role, the expectations, the constant negotiations it wasn't just about power, it was about connection. It was about maintaining delicate relationships with the smaller villages and realms within the demon kingdom, the very backbone of our world.
I could feel Riley's presence behind me, her warmth radiating from where she sat at the edge of the bed. There was a gentle quiet between us, a comfortable silence, but I knew I had to break it. I had to tell her about today, about what awaited us beyond the castle walls.