Chapter 13

Lyra’s POV

The grand chapel was hushed as Alistair and I stood before the priest, our fingers entwined and hearts racing. Sunlight streamed through the stained glass windows, painting the white marble floor in jewel-like hues of emerald, ruby, and sapphire. My breath caught in my throat as I slipped the wedding band onto his hand, the cool gold pressing against my skin. When he followed suit, the weight of that simple circle made my pulse thunder in my ears.

The priest cleared his throat, extending his hands over us. “By the power vested in me, I now pronounce you husband and wife. Alistair, you may kiss your bride.”

For an instant, my heart soared. I imagined his lips meeting mine, a warm, lingering promise of our life together. He stepped forward, and for a fleeting second I held my breath—until he gently pressed his lips to my forehead. The tender touch was filled with affection, but I couldn’t hide the flicker of confusion that passed across my face as h