"N-No I-"
He shook his head more violently, backing away
numero un-
We all know the good old royal x knight or royal x peasant but please consider: royal x painter
The painter looking closely and paying attention to every slight detail.
The royal feeling vulnerable as the painter's eyes pierce through them, catching every single one of their flaws, but feeling protected and seen at the same time.
They spend hours in intimate silence, comforting candlelight.