Cedric Days later. Today was my first official day as the King’s personal guard. I stood in front of the mirror, adjusting the cuffs of the tailored black suit the palace had delivered. It fit perfectly — sharp, expensive, and powerful. The King had sent a lot more than just clothes after that chaotic day: new furniture for my apartment, flowers, and a very generous amount of money that had already covered a huge chunk of my sister’s hospital bills. I still couldn’t believe it. I ran a hand through my gelled hair, making sure every strand was in place. I looked… different. Sharper. More like a CEO than a former security guard. The suit hugged my shoulders and chest perfectly, and the crisp white shirt underneath made me look like I belonged in boardrooms instead of guarding anyone. My

