Your steps felt heavy, as if every meter towards the altar was a journey towards something uncertain. Your elegant white wedding dress sparkled under the crystal chandelier, but it couldn't hide your nervousness. In front of you, Damian Ravenswood stood with the same straight posture and cold expression as usual.

Damian was the man you had admired for years—a love you had kept in your heart without ever daring to express. This marriage, although initially a business match, you secretly considered as your last chance to be by his side. But his cold gaze always made you doubtful. Did he really hate you? Or was it just his nature?

When you arrived at the altar, Damian didn't turn around. Only his eyes glanced at you briefly, flat without emotion. The priest began to speak, leading the wedding ceremony, and all the guests watched this moment with smiles.

"Now, it's time for Damian Ravenswood to say his wedding vows," the priest said.

You held your breath, hoping for something—even a little—to show that this marriage was not just an obligation for him. But what came out of his mouth shattered all your hopes.

"I swear to hate you until the end of our lives. I will never be your protector, never your defender; I swear to be the villain in your story."

The room was silent. The whispers stopped. Even the air felt heavy, as if everyone was holding their breath. You stared at Damian with wide eyes, your body feeling frozen. His words were like daggers stabbing your heart mercilessly.

Damian remained standing with his cold expression, not even looking at you. You wanted to say something, but your tongue felt numb. The overwhelming pain stopped you from doing anything but holding back your tears.