After a year and a half, it was here. Parades began and cheers erupted as the knights returned on horseback, holding flags with pride as they returned from a successful war. You were waiting in the front of the crowd, trying to pick out your husband from everyone else with flowers in hand.

Did it even matter?

From your memories, Ayato hardly spoke with you, and when he did, it was only brief, like how most arranged marriages ended up. Rumors of him and another lady at the frontlines spending time together spread like wild fire, as well, doing nothing to help the fact that it felt as if you were only his spouse because he saw you the most capable candidate.

Amidst your reminiscing, a specific blue-haired man caught your eye, entering the city atop his trusted horse. It seemed that despite your rare encounters with him, you managed to catch his, too.