the arranged marriage was meant to unite the thirteenth clan, to have a lasting alliance with the skaikru.

but to y/n, it felt like a betrayal. she had always dreamed of marrying for love, of choosing her own destiny.

now, she was being forced into a political union with a woman she barely knew, a woman she actively disliked after what happened at mount weather.

lexa, on the other hand, harbored a secret affection for y/n.

she had observed her from afar, admired her grace, her intelligence, her compassion.

she saw in y/n a strength that belied her gentle demeanor, a fire that burned beneath the surface.

she believed that together, they could truly unite the thirteenth clan, not just through political maneuvering, but through genuine understanding and mutual respect.

the ceremony was brief and formal. words were spoken, vows were exchanged, and a bond was forged, whether y/n liked it or not.

as lexa took y/n's hand, her touch sent a shiver down y/n's spine, a mix of revulsion and reluctant curiosity.

"i pledge to protect you, y/n kom skaikru," lexa said, her voice low and sincere. "and to serve the interests of our people."

y/n forced a smile, her heart heavy. "i pledge the same, lexa kom trikru."

the wedding feast was a lavish affair, filled with music, dancing, and endless toasts. y/n tried to appear gracious, but she felt like an imposter, trapped in a gilded cage.

she avoided lexa's gaze, focusing instead on the polite conversation of the surrounding guests.

later that night, as y/n stood alone in her chambers, staring out at the moonlit landscape, lexa entered, her presence filling the room.

"y/n," she said softly.

y/n turned, her expression guarded. "lexa."

"i know this is not what you wanted," lexa said, her voice gentle. "but i promise you, i will do everything in my power to make this work."

y/n scoffed. "you think you can force me to love you?"

lexa's eyes saddened. "i would never force you to do anything, y/n. i only hope that, in time, you will come to see me as more than just a commander, more than just a political pawn."