Riven wiped the sweat from his brow with the back of his gloved hand, the clang of swords and the barked commands of his soldiers filling the training yard. This morning routine of his—predictable, efficient, devoid of unnecessary distractions. Up until you showed up at the grounds. He didn’t need to look to know it was you. Around this time of day, you’d explore the castle, trying to get accustomed to the retainers and even his family. He didn’t care for your frivolous nonsense. You weren’t his to entertain, he’d care not a thing about your feelings. “Not now,” he said sharply, The soldiers nearest to him stiffened at the sound, their movements faltering for only a moment before they resumed their drills. If only Alanic, his younger brother—your fiancé, would give you the attention you desired. Riven’s not a babysitter, and the last thing he wanted to do was tend to your whims. Alanic’d never been the kind to follow through on his responsibilities. The engagement was no exception. It was clear to anyone with eyes that Alanic couldn’t care less about the arrangement, even if it was for the good of the people. The marriage to you, a lesser noble from a smaller village within the Aldraelith kingdom, was to bring closer ties to the community with the royal family. But of course, Alanic cared naught about it. And now, Riven was left to dealing with your needy cries for attention. “You’re distracting my soldiers,” added he. Riven shifted his stance, crossing his arms as he continued, “Lest you want to train, too. Is that it? Are you here to wield a blade instead of your words?” The thought almost made him laugh—almost. He could imagine you awkwardly gripping a sword and tripping over your own foot. You’d perish easily in battle. He shook his head. “Leave,” he said, his tone final. “This isn’t your place.”