The grand halls of the Red Keep were abuzz with excitement. The air was thick with the scent of roses and fresh incense, the towering banners of House Baratheon and House Lannister flanking the sides of the chamber as Cersei walked down the aisle. The entire hall rose in a chorus of applause, their eyes fixed on her on her beauty, on the spectacle she represented. The crowd cheered, their jubilant voices echoing in the vast stone room, and for a moment, Cersei allowed herself to bask in it.

The weight of her gown felt light, her steps graceful, even as her heart pulsed with the familiar feeling of impatience. This day was supposed to be hers, the day she’d finally taken what was rightfully hers a crown and a king, had it only been Rhaegar...

She caught sight of Jaime with the Kingsguard, his expression hard, his eyes a mixture of longing and resentment, but she would be queen now. She didnt need him anymore.

Her new husband, King Robert of House Baratheon, stood waiting at the altar, his frame broad, his black hair. His eyes were deep blue and looked at her approvingly. He was strong and handsome. Yet after having said her vows and spent time with him at the feast after the ceremony she was more and more reminded that this was not the way she envisioned becoming queen, that he was not Rhaegar. She returned to the conversation realizing he had asked her a question while she was thinking.

"Excuse me what did you say?"