"Taehyung-ah!" Princess Y/n's voice echoed through the serene garden as she nestled her head on her secret lover, Taehyung's chest. The lush grass beneath them provided a comfortable resting place, while the distant sight of the majestic waterfall added to the enchanting atmosphere, far removed from the confines of the palace.

"Yes, my love?" Taehyung's voice resonated with tenderness and calmness as his fingers gently traced patterns through the young princess's hair. They found solace in this hidden sanctuary, a respite from the watchful eyes of the royal court.

Resting her chin on his chest, Y/n looked up at Taehyung, her eyes filled with longing and a hint of worry. "How long must we conceal our love from the prying eyes of others?" Her delicate pout tugged at Taehyung's heartstrings, and he couldn't help but smile softly in response.

"Until eternity, my darling. If your family were to ever discover the truth about us, it would only bring dire consequences, and I would be met with a fate befitting the depths of your presence," Taehyung's words carried a touch of melancholy, as he revealed the harsh reality that bound their love.

Y/n's heart tightened with a mix of distress and affection for her beloved. Her voice trembled as she responded, "But can't you see how tense I become when you speak of such dire possibilities? The mere thought of losing you is unbearable."

Reacting swiftly to her sudden movement, Taehyung's eyes widened as he watched her push herself away, sitting upright with a flash of worry etched across her face. Concern etched his features, and he instinctively reached out to hold her, his arms encircling her trembling figure.

"What's wrong, my love? Please, tell me," his voice pleaded, filled with genuine worry as he caressed her hair and back, attempting to provide comfort and reassurance.

"I-I can't bear the thought of losing you, Taehyung," she sobbed, tears streaming down her face, staining his already-torn shirt. The weight of her emotions permeated the air, leaving Taehyung with a deep sense of remorse for causing her pain.

"I am sorry, my princess. Please, forget the words I spoke. I never meant to distress you," Taehyung's voice was laced with regret as he gently wiped away her tears, his touch a balm to her wounded heart.

"I don't wish to lose you Taehyung," Y/n repeated, her voice filled with desperation and a raw vulnerability that echoed her deepest fears and desires.

In that moment, Taehyung's resolve solidified, and without uttering a word, he sealed his love for her with a passionate kiss. Their lips met, carrying the weight of their unspoken vows and the forbidden nature of their union.

Taehyung, a man of elegance and simplicity, embodied a soul that perfectly complemented Y/n's royal stature. Yet, the cruel twist of fate deemed them unworthy of each other, their love confined by societal constraints. Y/n, the Princess of the Fiandra Kingdom, and Taehyung, a humble man from a lower caste, shared a love that flourished in the shadows, forever destined to remain hidden.

Their stolen moments of intimacy and affection were the rare jewels they treasured, a respite from the opulent yet suffocating existence of the royal court. Y/n's position as a princess demanded a life of privilege, but it also meant sacrificing her heart's deepest desires.

"Princess Y/n, it is time to depart," a resonant male voice interrupted their passionate embrace. The interruption came from one of Y/n's loyal bodyguards, stationed outside the garden to protect her and ensure her privacy was respected. In the kingdom of Fiandra, wherever the princess tread, her guardians followed, their watchful eyes ever-vigilant.

"Very well, I shall join you," Y/n responded with regal composure, her voice carrying the weight of her royal lineage. The radiant glow on Taehyung's face dimmed as he heard her being called away. Once again, he was forced to relinquish his position as her beloved, discreetly slipping away from her side as the guards took charge. "Tae, I must depart now. Come out only after a few moments, my love," she murmured, cupping Taehyung's face tenderly as his gaze remained locked on her, entranced by her grace.

In response, Taehyung enveloped her in a fervent embrace, holding her tightly as if unwilling to let go. "Take care, my love. We shall reunite soon," he whispered, his voice laced with sorrow, their connection unbreakable even in the face of separation. Y/n's eyes softened as she recognized the ache in his voice, a silent acknowledgment of their hidden struggles. "Darling, do not be disheartened. It is but a brief interlude. We shall meet again tomorrow," she reassured him, attempting to uplift his spirits, though the task felt insurmountable.

Reluctantly releasing her from his warm embrace, Taehyung planted a gentle kiss upon her forehead. "Take care, my baby," he murmured, his words filled with love and longing. Y/n stood, readying herself to depart, her heart heavy with the pain of leaving Taehyung behind.

With one final blown kiss, the princess ventured away from the waterfall garden, her regal gown delicately maneuvered amidst the wildflowers. She dared not turn back, for the sight of Taehyung receding from her vision would only intensify the ache within her soul.

Outside, a pair of opulent royal carriages awaited, surrounded by a retinue of vigilant bodyguards. The feeling of confinement washed over her, a stark reminder of the responsibilities and restrictions that came with her royal status. "Even as a princess, I should not be confined to the castle for eternity," she murmured, her voice carrying the determination of a spirit longing for freedom.

Amongst the constraints of her duties, it was those stolen moments with Taehyung that evoked euphoria within her heart. He alone possessed the power to make her smile, to make her feel truly alive and cherished.

"Princess, if you please, step into the carriage. We shall make our way back to the castle," the commanding voice of one of her guards urged respectfully, reminding her of her role as the crown jewel of the kingdom.

With grace befitting her station, Princess Y/n entered the carriage, the embodiment of regality even in her moments of yearning. The wheels began to turn, and as she left the haven of the garden, her heart remained entwined with Taehyung's, their forbidden love a secret flame that burned bright in the depths of her soul.

As the carriages started moving, Y/n's gaze drifted towards the passing scenery, but her thoughts were consumed by Taehyung. She closed her eyes, allowing herself to relive those stolen moments, to immerse herself in the joy they had brought her.

---

The weight of her contemplation pressed heavily upon her as she looked out the window, the sight of the enormous castle before her reflecting the grandeur and imprisonment that came with her title. Letting out a deep sigh, she reluctantly stepped out of the carriage, flanked by a few guards who accompanied her every move.

The echo of her mother's voice reverberated through the giant hall as Y/n entered. She glanced up to see an unfamiliar sight-a sudden excitement flickered across her mother's face, a rare display of positive emotion. The cold-hearted queen was not known for her warmth, except when it served her own interests.

Growing up, Y/n had never lacked material comforts befitting a royal child, but the one thing she craved the most-her mother's love-had always been absent. Her mother's affection was conditional, only shown when it brought her some form of profit or advantage. People often speculated if her mother was truly her own, as her behavior seemed more fitting of a stepmother. But the truth remained that her mother was indeed her biological parent, even though she never acted like one. And as for her father, Y/n had never known him. He had been a victim of a plotted murder shortly after her birth. The absence of a father figure had left a void in her heart, but she had resolved to remain strong and protect the kingdom from her mother's destructive ways.

Y/n's voice carried a hint of weariness as she spoke, climbing the stairs with her mother trailing behind. "What is it, Mother? I assume this news is only beneficial to you."

Her words elicited an eye roll from the queen, but she continued with a half-smile, relishing in the power she held over her daughter. "I have some very exciting news for you, my daughter. I'm sure you'll be pleased once you hear what it is."

Y/n's disinterest was plain to see, but she knew she had to let her mother continue. "I highly doubt it, but go on."

The queen's smile widened, a wicked glint in her eyes as she delivered her bombshell. "I have arranged your marriage to Jackson Wang, the future king of the Xiaoxi Kingdom!"

Y/n's world shattered in an instant, her body going numb with disbelief. The ground beneath her seemed to vanish as her mind struggled to comprehend the words she had just heard. Her heart pounded in her chest as a surge of agony overwhelmed her.

"No, Mother! You can't do this to me!" Y/n's voice trembled with a mix of fear and anger, tears welling up in her eyes. She refused to accept the cruel fate her mother had thrust upon her. "You can't force me to marry someone I don't even know, all for your own gain!"

Her words reverberated through the hall, a cry of anguish and defiance. The hot tears streamed down her face, betraying the pain she felt deep within her being.

But her mother, with her demon-like demeanor, only stared back at Y/n, a devilish grimace on her face. In a chilling whisper, she threatened, "Young lady, you don't get to shout at your mother."

The sound of Y/n's cries echoed through the opulent halls of the palace, sending waves of concern among the workers. They had never witnessed the usually composed princess in such a state of anguish, and it tugged at their hearts to see her in such distress.

Among them, Maria, one of Y/n's closest confidants, stood outside the closed bedroom door. In her hands, she held a tray laden with the princess's favorite dishes, hoping to provide some comfort in the midst of her pain.

"Princess, please," Maria's voice pleaded gently, her concern evident. "You haven't eaten anything since morning. I've brought your favorite dishes for you. Can you please open the door and let me in?"

But the sobs continued, unabated. Y/n's voice, choked with tears, responded, "Please go away, everyone. I need some time alone."

Maria let out a heavy sigh, her shoulders slumping with a mix of worry and helplessness. She glanced down at the tray of untouched food, a vivid reminder of the princess's refusal to find solace in her usual comforts.

Nodding to herself, Maria made a decision. "Let's try again later, once she has had some time to collect herself," she suggested to the other concerned workers who had gathered nearby. They reluctantly agreed, understanding the need to respect Y/n's request for solitude.

As the workers dispersed, Maria cast one last glance at the closed bedroom door, her heart filled with a mixture of empathy and determination. She would give Y/n the space she needed but would continue to support her in any way she could. The pain etched on the princess's face served as a reminder that there were battles being fought within the walls of the palace, battles that were not always visible to the outside world.

With a silent prayer for Y/n's well-being, Maria carried the untouched tray of food away, hoping that brighter days would soon dawn for the tormented princess.

---

The concerned workers, including Maria, approached the Queen with pleas and reasoning, urging her to intervene and ensure that Princess Y/n would eat something. They worried about the princess's deteriorating health and the potential consequences of her prolonged starvation.

However, the Queen's response was far from empathetic. With an eye roll and dismissive demeanor, she waved off their concerns. To her, Y/n's behavior was simply an act of petulance, a tantrum thrown because of her impending marriage.

"Let her starve," the Queen coldly declared, her voice laced with indifference. "She'll come crawling back to you for food when she realizes her hunger."

As she casually blew over her freshly painted nails, the Queen strolled down the aisle of the grand hall, the workers trailing behind in protest, unable to comprehend her callousness.

"Your Majesty, please reconsider. Y/n is still young, and the weight of the marriage decision may have greatly affected her mental state. It's crucial that she eats," Maria pleaded once more, her voice filled with genuine concern.

But the Queen had reached her limit. She turned around, fixing each worker with a piercing glare, her eyes filled with malice. The weight of her authority bore down on them, particularly on Maria.

"She is my daughter, and I know what is best for her," the Queen hissed, her voice laced with venom. "Stay out of our affairs, or you will face dire consequences, Miss Maria."

Maria's heart sank, fear coursing through her veins as she repeatedly bowed in submission. The Queen's words struck deep, causing her to retreat in trepidation. However, despite the Queen's warning, Maria's determination to help Y/n remained unyielding. She couldn't bear to see the princess suffer, even if it meant risking the wrath of the cruel Queen.

As the workers dispersed, their hopes for the Queen's intervention shattered, Maria vowed silently to herself to find another way to convince Y/n to eat, to ensure her well-being in the face of the Queen's indifference. The battle to protect the princess's health and happiness had only just begun.

---

To Kim Taehyung,

In this missive, I convey my deepest apologies and a heavy heart burdened by circumstances beyond our control. My beloved, my Mother compels me into an unwanted marriage with a prince from a distant land. I am imprisoned by duty, unable to escape this fate.

Know, my love, that you alone possess the key to my heart, and it shall forever remain yours. Although we must part ways in this life, I fervently hope for our reunion in the next. Please find solace and seek a path of healing.

With unwavering love,

Princess Y/n

The weeping girl delicately fastened the small piece of paper around the pigeon's slender leg, her trembling hands careful not to disrupt the fragile connection. The weight of her unspoken emotions threatened to consume her, but she held them tightly, determined to conceal her anguish.

With a gentle release, the bird took flight, carrying her heartfelt message to its intended recipient.

As the pigeon soared into the sky, she turned, her eyes filled with tears, only to be met by her Mother's piercing gaze, brimming with an intensity that struck fear into her fragile heart.

---

Y/n remained seated by the window, lost in a whirlwind of thoughts and worries. She pondered whether her mother had discovered her heartfelt letter, fearing the consequences it could bring upon Taehyung. She desperately hoped that her mother had remained oblivious, unwilling to sacrifice Taehyung's feelings alongside her own.

Interrupting her solitude, her mother's cheerful voice pierced through the heavy atmosphere. Y/n turned to face her, her eyes devoid of emotion, concealing the pain that consumed her from within.

"What is it, Mother?" she asked, her voice hollow.

A wicked smile played upon her mother's lips as she issued her invitation. "Why don't you come to the castle tower and see for yourself?" Her words dripped with malice.

Y/n's disinterest was palpable. "I'm not interested."

Without warning, her mother seized her face, forcing her lips into a pout. Her grip released, leaving behind a lingering sting. "Your feelings, your desires, your wishes-none of it matters," her mother sneered. "Be there within 10 minutes."

As her mother abruptly left the room, a single tear escaped Y/n's eye, tracing a path down her cheek. "Father, I miss you," she whispered, her voice filled with a longing for the comfort and guidance only he could provide.

---

Y/n gazed up at the imposing guillotine machine with wide eyes, a sense of dread coursing through her veins. There was no doubt that someone's life would be brutally taken today, but what connection did it have to her?

Turning to Maria, her trusted companion, she sought answers. "What is all this about?" she inquired, her voice filled with both curiosity and apprehension. However, Maria refused to divulge any information, pleading for forgiveness instead.

Y/n let out an exasperated sigh, her eyes scanning the crowd gathered before her, eagerly awaiting the spectacle of the guillotine. She couldn't fathom the fascination people had with such gruesome displays.

"Darling, you arrived just in time," her mother's voice chimed, interrupting her thoughts. Y/n looked at her with a mixture of disdain and confusion. "Mother, what is the meaning of all this? Who is facing execution, and why have you summoned me here?"

Her mother playfully brushed Y/n's hair, her eyes shifting towards the crowd. It was then that Y/n noticed the guards carrying a beaten and battered figure towards the guillotine.

"Well, well, there lies the answer to all your questions," her mother replied with a sinister glint in her eyes.

Y/n's brows furrowed as she watched the scene unfold, her heart sinking as recognition struck her. "No! Release him!" she cried out in desperation, tears welling up in her eyes. Everything seemed to be unraveling before her, and she could no longer think clearly. She frantically tried to flee, but the guards blocked her path, unmoved by her pleas. Her mother laughed like a deranged madwoman.

"Darling, just witness his final moments. There's nothing more you can do," her mother coldly declared.

Y/n gasped for breath, leaning against the railings for support. The sound of drums filled the air as Taehyung was brought closer to the guillotine. "No, don't do this!" she wailed, her voice filled with anguish.

Taehyung locked eyes with her, his gaze filled with sadness as he offered her a somber smile. Their connection was palpable even from a distance, and Y/n's cries intensified. "As the Princess of this Kingdom, I command you to spare him!" she shouted, capturing the attention of the onlookers.

But to her dismay, the guards remained resolute, ignoring her desperate pleas. The queen stepped forward, commanding the spotlight.

"Today," she sneered, glancing down at Taehyung, "this lowly peasant will meet his end before the entire kingdom. And why, you may ask? He had the audacity to fall in love with my daughter, the princess."

She scoffed and spat in his direction, while Taehyung looked on helplessly, accepting his fate. "Now, he shall face the consequences."

"Execute him!"

The guards positioned him beneath the looming blade.

"No, no, please, stop! Show mercy!" Y/n sobbed, collapsing to her knees. "Mother, I will marry anyone you desire, just spare his life. I beg of you." She clasped her hands together, her cries growing louder.

Her mother's smile seemed to offer a glimmer of hope, but it quickly faded. "Oh no, my dear. I cannot grant you that wish. I am pleased that you are willing to comply with my wishes, but he shall receive what he deserves."

Y/n's smile vanished as her mother's smirk grew. "No."

With tear-filled eyes, she looked down at Taehyung, the anguish in her gaze immeasurable.

"I deeply regret, Princess, for I have failed in the duty of love," Taehyung's voice echoed, filled with sorrow and resignation. The air grew heavy with despair as the blade of the guillotine was finally set free.

In that fateful moment, Y/n's heart shattered into a million pieces. Tears streamed down her face uncontrollably, her anguished cries blending with the collective gasps of the crowd. The world seemed to come crashing down around her as she watched the life she held so dear meet its tragic end.

The weight of loss and helplessness enveloped her, suffocating her spirit. The pain was insurmountable, a deep ache that resonated in every fiber of her being. In that cruel act, her hopes, dreams, and love were mercilessly severed.

Y/n's sorrowful wails pierced through the silence, echoing in the vast space. The cruelty of the moment etched itself into her soul, leaving an indelible mark of grief. She clung to the railings, her body trembling with anguish as she mourned the tragic fate that befell her beloved.

In that somber moment, the world felt devoid of light and hope. Y/n wept for the love lost, for the life cut short, and for the emptiness that now consumed her heart. The pain of losing Taehyung would forever haunt her, a reminder of the cruel realities of her existence as a princess trapped in a kingdom ruled by darkness.

---