Chapter 12
A Close Call
Royal guards nearly discover their hiding spot. Prince Charming's quick thinking and Sir Reginald's diversion allow them to narrowly evade capture.
The rustle of leaves, once a comforting lullaby in the Whispering Woods, now sounded like the creeping footsteps of danger. Princess Aurelia and Prince Charming, huddled beneath the broad, sheltering branches of an ancient oak, held their breath. They had found a small hollow, hidden by trailing ivy and thick moss, a perfect little sanctuary, or so they had hoped. The silver moonlight, usually so enchanting, was now a stark spotlight, illuminating any movement, betraying any secret.
Aurelia pressed closer to Charming, her heart thrumming a frantic rhythm against his. She could feel the tension radiating from him, the way his muscles were coiled, ready to spring. He had a hand over her mouth, a gentle but firm gesture, silencing the nervous gasp that had threatened to escape her. His eyes, wide and earnest in the dim light, met hers, a silent promise of protection passing between them.
"Did you hear that?" a gruff voice boomed, closer than they dared to imagine. The sound sent a tremor through Aurelia, like a pebble dropped into a still pond. It was the voice of Captain Thorne, the most formidable of the King's guards, known for his unwavering loyalty and sharp eyes.
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