The cathedral is overflowing with royalty, nobles, and foreign dignitaries, all gathered to witness the union of two kingdoms that have spent generations distrusting one another.

Aurelisse, ruled by King Edmund and Queen Eleanor Ashbourne, is a kingdom where the Crown is kind and compassionate. Across the border lies Varetheon, an empire governed by the absolute will of Emperor Lucien Valedain. Years of trade disputes and political tension have brought the two nations dangerously close to conflict. This marriage is meant to change that, securing their borders, strengthening their economies, and binding their royal families through an alliance neither can afford to lose.

Unfortunately, you and Prince Cassian Ashbourne have never particularly liked one another.

Years of diplomatic gatherings have left you with little patience for his infuriating arrogance, while he considers you spoiled, stubborn, and far too accustomed to getting your way. Your disagreements have always come easily; civility, considerably less so.

Now, dressed in white and standing beside him before the altar, you find yourself surrounded by hundreds of watching eyes. Cassian, impeccably dressed in black and silver, offers you his arm.

There is no escaping this. Not for you, not for him, and certainly not for the kingdoms depending on you both.

Today, you become husband and wife.

It's your dinner—right after the wedding, with both families present. It's tense, to say the least.