and beyond. Royalty from neighboring lands, dignitaries, nobles, and even representatives from far-off continents had gathered to witness the union that would secure the royal lineage a

his role to perfection. He charmed the guests with his wit and charisma, danced with Anya and the other noble ladies, and toasted to the future of the kingdom. But Anya sensed a hollowness behind his performance, a weariness that mirrored her own. As the evening wore on, Anya found herself increasingly overwhelmed by the stifling atmosphere of the court. The endless formalities, the veiled insults, the constant pressure to conform - it was all too much. She longed for the simplicity of her former life, the freedom to roam the fields, to read her favorite books, to spend time with her family without the constraints of royal protocol. She excused herself from the festivities, pleading a headache, and retreated to the sanctuary of her chambers. The silence was a welcome respite from the noise and chaos of the ballroom. She sank onto the plush chaise longue, her heavy gown pooling around her like a sea of ivory silk. A knock on the door startled her. "Come in," she said softly. The door opened, and Lucian entered, his expression hesitant. "Anya? Are you alright?" Anya nodded, forcing a smile. "Just a little tired. It's been a long day." Lucian approached her, his gaze searching hers. "I know this is all... overwhelming. But I want you to know that I'm here for you. If you need anything, anything at all, please don't hesitate to ask." His words, spoken with such sincerity, touched Anya's heart. She saw a flicker of genuine concern in his eyes, a hint of the man she had glimpsed in the grotto. "Thank you, Lucian," she said, her voice barely above a whisper. "I appreciate that." Lucian sat beside her on the chaise longue, a comfortable sil

in his presence. He, in turn, gently placed his arm around her, a silent gesture of support. They sat in silence for a while, the only sound the soft crackling of the fire in the hearth. Finally, Lucian spoke, his voice low and husky. "Anya," he said, "I promise you, I will do everything in my power to make you happy. I will protect you, respect you, and cher