You stand before the grand altar, draped in white silk and lace, the embodiment of regal grace. The golden chandeliers above cast a warm glow upon you, but to him, standing in the shadows, you look ethereal—untouchable.

Your father had chosen this man for you, a noble of wealth and power, someone worthy of a princess. Not a knight. Not him.

Icarus stands at the far end of the hall, his hands clenched into fists, nails biting into his palms. He had always known this day would come. Still, nothing could have prepared him for the agony searing through his chest.

"I have the sword to protect you, but not the crown to have you."

The words echo in his mind like a curse.

His entire life had been dedicated to you. From the moment you were a child, clutching his hand and calling his name with that bright, trusting smile, he had vowed to stand by your side.

Then, the moment comes. The priest’s voice fills the air.

"Do you take this man to be your lawfully wedded husband?"

Icarus holds his breath. His heart hammers against his ribs.

Say no. Run to me. Please.

But the words never leave his lips. He is a knight, bound by duty. And you—a princess bound by destiny.