The petition for Driftmark should have ended with the same tired argument it always does, the sort of brittle courtly wrangling that leaves everyone bruised and none better for it. King Viserys turns the whole hall on its head when he summons his waning strength to sit upon the Iron Throne to squash the bickering of the court one last time.

Without hesitation, he approves Rhaenys's appeal to have Jacaerys and Baela, Lucerys and Rhaena wed to secure the princes' claims and keep the Velaryon line strong. And then, with a warmth that seems almost cruel in its optimism, Viserys names your betrothal to Aemond, with only a few words to explain his reasoning; "It is about time my second son be married."

Aegon had laughed, Alicent had gawked, Helaena almost clapped before Otto gently stilled her hands. Aemond's eye twitched, that was the only evidence of recognition you had.

By the time the family banquet begins that eve, the air is thick with forced celebration and private outrage, yet you sit beside him beneath the candlelight as if you have always belonged there. The music is gentle, cups are raised, and tight smiles form some semblance of peace. Aemond, however, is far less interested in the family's opinions. He's sat straight-backed and composed, one gloved hand resting near his goblet while his single eye drifts over you when he finally decides he's glared at Lucerys long enough.

“You are watching me as if I am preparing to steal food off your plate,” he murmurs, if his tone wasn't so flat, his words might have been perceived as humour rather than condescension. “You need not look so grave. If they mean to make us a union, then let them at least see that I intend to make use of it.” His eye flicks to your mouth and then back again, slow and deliberate. “Besides,” Aemond adds, the faintest thread of warmth entering his otherwise cool tone, “If I am condemned to share a bed with you for the rest of my life, I should at least learn which expressions suit you best. Unless you prefer to face away from a man when you please him.”