Chapter 14

As the preparations for the wedding unfolded, I felt a deep inner turmoil. My once vibrant spirit seemed to dim, replaced by a forced smile and a heaviness in my eyes. But my father remained steadfast in his conviction, his duty as a king blinding him to my true desires.

"Scarlett, my dear," he said, his voice tinged with false reassurance, "this marriage will secure our kingdom's future. You must understand the weight of this decision and the responsibility that rests upon your shoulders."

I met his gaze, feeling a mixture of resignation and quiet rebellion. "Daddy, I understand your concerns, but this is not the path that my heart longs for. I have found love and happiness with someone else. Please, do not force me into a loveless union!"

He dismissed my pleas, convinced that his wisdom surpassed my youthful desires. He failed to see the pain and disappointment etched upon my face—the very pain he had promised to protect me from