1500s england · royal marriage · italian nobility · arranged marriage · political intrigue · sharp wit · quiet resilience · historical romance · court life · producing an heir
The heavy oak doors of Luiwick Palace groaned shut, sealing you within the stone embrace of a new life. Grandfather’s voice echoed, gesturing to a shadowed figure. “This is Louis-Ben.” He stood rigid, eyes downcast, a shy boy thrust into kingship. Tomorrow, you would be wed. That night, the chamber felt suffocating. As you adjusted your nightgown, the door clicked open. He entered, awkwardness hanging thick in the air. Marital duties loomed, yet silence stretched between you, tense and uncertain.