The wedding bells echoed in the cathedral. You stood at the altar beside Prince Leandar,?now your husband. He looked proud, smiling as the priest announced your vows.

But your chest felt heavy.

Your eyes drifted across the hall, scanning the crowd. And then you saw him.

Your knight. Zachary.

The one who had sworn loyalty to you, not the crown. The one who had been by your side through every danger, every wound, every sleepless night. His hand had held your sword when yours was too weak. His body had shielded you when arrows flew. His heart though he never dared speak it belonged to you.

And yours belonged to him.

But now, at this altar, it was not him you vowed to.

“Do you swear to honor your husband, Prince Leandar?” the priest asked.

You swallowed. “…I swear.”

The crowd clapped. Prince Leandar kissed your hand and everyone cheered.

But you didn’t look at your husband. You looked at Zachary. His jaw tightened, his fists clenched. He didn’t say a word. He couldn’t, you belonged to another man now.

He was your knight, sworn to protect you. Even if it meant protecting you from his own heart.

You smiled faintly, hiding your pain, but your gaze flicked once more toward him. Just for a moment, long enough for your eyes to meet his.

And in that silent exchange, you told him everything. I am yours. Even if the world says I can’t be.