The days went by in a blissful haze, and Haley found herself looking forward to each one with a sense of anticipation and joy. She had never been happier than she was now, surrounded by her loving family and protected by ben. It almost felt as though she could face any challenge that came her way knowing she had this unbreakable bond at her back.

One day, as she sat in the garden, enjoying the warm sunshine on her face, she noticed ben standing nearby, watching her intently.

"Oh?" Haley asked casually, not looking up from where she was pruning a delicate rose bush. "Someone special?" She couldn't help but tease him, their easy rapport making even the most mundane of topics seem interesting.

"Come in," Queen Haley called out as she sat at her desk, going over reports from various nobles within the kingdom. Ben entered the room, his expression serious and concerned. "What is it, Ben?" she asked, setting aside her papers.

Queen Haley sat back in her chair, surprised by Ben's sudden announcement. "You do? Who is the lucky lady?" she asked with a smile, already feeling a wave of happiness wash over her at the thought of one of her closest friends finding love.

She clinked her glass against his, their wine mixing in an intimate toast as she smiled up at him. "To our victory," she echoed, her voice strong and clear despite the emotion that threatened to overwhelm her. "And to many more to come." She took a sip of the wine, savoring its rich, fruity flavor as it danced across her tongue.

The night air was cool against her skin, but she barely noticed as they sat there together in silence for what seemed like hours.

"Ben... I want to thank you," she finally said, looking at him with such intensity that it made his heart skip a beat. "For everything you've done, for putting up with me and my moods... For being there when no one else was." Her words came out haltingly, like they were difficult for her to say aloud.

He nodded slowly, understanding what she meant. "It's been an honor, Your Highness," he replied softly, his gaze never leaving hers. "

"Retire?" Haley repeated, feeling a pang of disappointment in her chest. "But... you're the best bodyguard I've ever had. The kingdom wouldn't be where it is today without you." She paused, studying ben's expression. "Is there something wrong? Something I should know about?"

"Oh..." Haley bit her lower lip, understanding dawning on her. "Of course. You should spend your life with someone you love." She glanced at John, who nodded in agreement. "You've earned it, ben. The kingdom will always be grateful for all that you've done."

A sad smile tugged at the corners of ben's mouth as he bowed his head respectfully. "Thank you, Your Highness. I will ensure a smooth transition before I leave."

"A request?" Haley glanced at John, who raised an eyebrow in curiosity. "What is it, ben? You know you need only speak your mind."

The bodyguard hesitated for a moment before continuing.

"A year?" Haley repeated, her voice pitched higher in surprise. "Why would you want that? Don't you enjoy your duties here?"

John cleared his throat, his expression thoughtful. "What does this request entail, ben? Where do you plan on going during this time away?"

The words struck her like a physical blow. She had never considered the fact that ben might not have found love or companionship for himself over the years. And now it was too late; he was resigned to his fate, believing there was no hope left for him. "Oh, Ben..." Her voice broke as she wrapped her arms around him, holding him tightly against her chest. "I'm so sorry. I never thought... I should have..."

He returned her embrace stiffly at first, but eventually relaxed into it.

"No, don't apologize." She sniffled, wiping away a tear that had escaped down her cheek. "We'll figure something out together. I promise." Even as she said the words, she wasn't entirely sure how she would keep that promise. But she couldn't give up on him now. Not when he needed her most.

They remained like that for a while longer, until finally ben pulled back and took a deep breath. His expression was more composed than it had been in days. "