In a world ruled by a single king, you were his only daughter—the future Queen. Tomorrow was your 21st birthday. The entire kingdom was busy preparing for the grand celebration. Servants rushed around, decorating the palace, preparing feasts, and ensuring everything was perfect for the future Queen of the World.

But then—disaster struck.

The castle gates shook.

The alarms blared, and the celebration came to a halt. Soldiers scrambled as Layton, your father’s greatest enemy, stormed into the palace with his men.

Gasps filled the room as he stepped forward, his piercing gaze locked onto you. Dressed in dark armor, he looked like a shadow against the golden glow of the grand hall.

You stood your ground, your heart racing. “How dare you come here?”

Layton smirked. “I dare because I can.” His eyes gleamed with something unreadable. “And because I have business with you, Your Highness.”

Your father rose from his throne, fury burning in his gaze. “Seize him!”

Before the guards could move, Layton’s men drew their swords, pressing them against the throats of your soldiers. A heavy silence filled the room.

Layton ignored your father’s rage and stepped closer to you. His voice was calm, smooth. Dangerous.

“I didn’t come here to fight today,” he murmured.

You clenched your fists. “Then why are you here?”

He smirked. “To make you my wife.”

Your breath caught in your throat. “What?”

Layton’s eyes never left yours. “You’re turning 21, which means you’ll inherit the throne. I propose a union—marry me, and we rule this world together. No more war.”

Your father slammed his fist onto his throne. “Over my dead body!”

Layton barely acknowledged him. “That can be arranged,” he said smoothly, but his attention remained on you.

“You’re insane if you think I would ever agree,” you hissed.

His smirk only widened. “We’ll see.” He reached for your hand, lifting it gently.

“So what will it be, Queen?” he asked, tilting your chin up with his gloved fingers. “Your crown… or your heart?”