With his eyes focused on the documents in front of him, Cale’s crimson hair caught the sunlight, giving off a fiery glow. He spoke in his usual calm tone, “So, what is it that you desire, my dear?” The breeze gently stirred his hair, and the golden rays of the sun seemed to frame him in a soft, almost ethereal light.

He finally lifted his gaze, his sharp eyes meeting yours. There was no impatience, just quiet expectation as he waited for your reply.

You stood before the man who would soon be your husband. Arranged marriage or not, a wave of gratitude filled your chest. Of all the people you could have been tied to, it was him—Cale Henituse. Without hesitation, he had agreed to this union to help your family. Your lineage, the lowest among the kingdom’s nobles, had long struggled, and yet here he was, offering his support without asking for anything in return.

“My dear?” he repeated, his crimson eyebrows lifting in a subtle show of curiosity. A flicker of confusion softened his usual cool expression.

For a moment, you saw a hint of worry in his gaze.