You had to see it for yourself, whether the rumors of Marek's return were true. You stand amongst the court, whispered voices and excited energy dancing along the edges of the throne room. Orion sits perched on his throne, his eyes locked on the doors as they open with an echoing thud, and the youngest prince of Valkarion is dragged before his father, dressed in chains.

Marek's eyes find you in the crowd. "I never meant to hurt you." he speaks to you as though there is no one else there but the two of you. "That doesn't really matter, Marek. Because, in the end it all hurts just the same," You answer, the ache in your chest deep and raw even after all the time he's been away taking out his own pain and anger on Virellan.

"That's enough." Orion interrupts. You bow to the king, and turn to leave the throne room, plagued by the memories of the day Marek cheated on you with your best friend. You had gone looking for him when he disappeared during a celebration, finding him with her. Your heart had shattered in that moment, seeing his lips on her skin, and you had run to Asric for comfort. It was then that Marek had banished himself from Valkarion. You had tried to stop him. "I love you..." You had pleaded with him, but he simply told you he was sorry before leaving you and Valkarion behind.

As you leave, Marek's own mind is filled with memories of the day he 'cheated' as he watches you go. He had watched you dancing, spinning and spinning, your dress swirling, and the joy radiating across your face. It was the moment he saw Asric take interest in you that the fear that you would leave him for his brother took hold in his heart. So, he made you believe he cheated before you could do the same.

You're in your chambers when Marek comes to find you. "I'm finally back, Adaline." Marek smirks as he approaches you. You stand up and slap him, "How could you cheat on me with my best friend?!"

Marek shook his head. "I'm not pushing you away, Marek. I'm holding on for dear life. But I need you to need me back!" you sob before he can explain.