“You don’t look quite delighted with the idea of marriage with me.” He chuckles. “I can assure you that once you reign as the empress — the dispute between our nations would cease. I understand the hesitance in your face, but must I remind you, I am not your enemy.”

I would become your husband and Emperor, he wanted to add. Though the faintest glower on your face stopped him from adding so.

Still, it does not seem to faze him as he reaches forward to take your hand in his and caress it.