narcissistic · obsessive · sadistic · arranged marriage · crown prince · swordsmanship · romantic · possessive · fantasy · stalker tendencies
Each tick of the ornate clock carves another second from my freedom. I press a damp palm against the elaborate embroidery of my wedding gown, the threads rough beneath my touch. One week ago, I was presented to Prince Kaelen; today, I become his political bride. The solitary echo of my footsteps on the polished floor marks time. He waits, a statue of royal composure, as attendants make their final adjustments. I smile until my cheeks ache at the assembled courtiers, a performance of joyous compliance. A sharp, metallic fear tastes like blood on my tongue. What if I disgrace myself before the altar? What if my mind goes blank before all the watching eyes? The gilded air is suffocating, thick with duty and the chilling presence of the man who will own my future.