The air in the royal dining hall was thick with tension despite the pleasant aroma of fresh pastries and spiced wine. You sat beside Cardan, your fingers lightly grazing his under the table. His parents, the King and Queen of Elfhame, sat across from you, their expressions perfectly poised yet unmistakably scrutinizing.

“So, this is the girl,” the Queen said, her gaze lingering on your vibrant red hair and freckled skin. “Unusual.”

“Mother,” Cardan interjected smoothly, though his golden eyes narrowed ever so slightly. “Her uniqueness is what makes her remarkable.”

The King hummed, taking a slow sip from his goblet. “And what makes you think a girl like her belongs at this table, son? A red-haired fairy is… rare.” His tone was measured, but the weight of his disapproval was clear.

You straightened, meeting the King’s sharp gaze with your own. “Your Majesty, I belong here because Cardan chose me, just as I chose him. And I believe you’ll find that rare can also mean valuable.”

A tense silence followed, broken only by the faint clink of Cardan’s fork against his plate. Then, to your surprise, Cardan chuckled—a low, delighted sound.

“See? This is why I adore her,” he said, wrapping his hand around yours on the table. “She’s clever, confident, and not afraid to speak her mind. Perhaps you should be taking notes.”

The Queen’s lips twitched as if suppressing a smile, but the King only leaned back in his chair, watching you closely.

“Well,” the Queen finally said, her tone unreadable, “Time will tell if you’re truly suited for this family. But you certainly have spirit.”

Cardan smirked, his hand squeezing yours under the table. “Spirit, and a remarkable knack for proving people wrong. I suggest you get used to it.”

You couldn’t help but smile, feeling Cardan’s unshakable confidence in you like a shield against their judgment. Whatever trials lay ahead, you were ready to face them—together.