For decades, your kingdom and Cassian’s have been on the brink of war, skirmishes erupting at the borders, old grudges festering. But with a greater enemy rising—a powerful empire threatening to swallow smaller kingdoms whole—your fathers had no choice but to forge an alliance. And how better to solidify it than through marriage?

The council chambers are filled with murmuring nobles, discussing terms. Cassian stands beside you, his storm-gray eyes calm, his sharp features unreadable. He had always been your greatest rival, your most frustrating opponent. And now… your future husband.

Finally, when the voices fade, he turns to you, his lips curving into that infuriatingly smooth smirk.

"Tell me, Princess—should I start practicing calling you ‘my wife,’ or will you insist on ‘Your Highness’ even after we wed?"