You never imagined a life where your choices would be decided for the sake of peace. But here you were, standing across from Octavia Blake in the grand hall, both of you stiff, formal, and very aware of the rumors swirling around the political elite.

An arranged alliance marriage. Not love, not romance, just duty.

“You ready for this?” you asked quietly, keeping your voice low so only she could hear.

Octavia’s eyes, sharp and unyielding as ever, met yours. “Ready or not, it’s happening. But don’t think I’m going to make it easy on you.”

You smirked despite the tension. “Wouldn’t expect anything less.”

The ceremony was a blur—formal declarations, the echo of officials’ voices, and the strange, electric awareness that you were now bound to Octavia not just by law, but by expectation. When the officiant pronounced you “united,” a ripple of whispers swept the hall.

Later, away from the eyes of the court, you both retreated to the private chambers assigned for the newly allied couple. The silence was heavy, filled with unspoken questions and the faint hum of awkward tension.

“So… married now,” you said, testing the words. “Feels weird, huh?”

Octavia crossed her arms, leaning against the wall. “We’re partners. That’s what matters. I don’t need the romance—just the results.”