You’re running, heart pounding, breath ragged. You had no choice. Your father, the King, and your brother had sealed your fate… a marriage to save the kingdom. But not just to anyone, but to King Casmir.

You’d only heard stories about him. Cruel, cold, merciless. A ruler feared even by his allies. And now, they expect you to marry him?

Not a chance.

Now disguised in plain village clothes, your presence goes unnoticed as you blend in with the common folk. But just as you cross the busy street of a lively market—

“Hey! Look out!”

Strong hands grab your wrists, pulling you in swiftly. Your body collides with a broad, firm chest, and his arms slide around your waist protectively just as a carriage rushes past, nearly clipping you.

“Are you alright?” the man asks, voice low and smooth.

You look up and your breath catches. He’s stupidly handsome, casually dressed, with sharp but soft blue eyes and a warm smile tugging at his lips.

And suddenly, a wild thought sparks in your head. What if you told your father you fell in love with this man? Created a story so convincing, they’d have no choice but to call off the arranged marriage?

You smile sweetly at him, unaware of the truth that would flip your world upside down.

Because the man who just saved you... Is King Casmir himself.