Chapter 11. Engagement Exchange

After a few minutes, the adults returned and ushered us onto the stage. "It's time for the auspicious ring exchange ceremony," my mother announced. We took our positions on the stage, and Cassian's aunt presented a beautiful ring box. Cassian carefully removed the ring from the box, and I felt a nervous tremor run through me, my past haunting my thoughts. I silently hoped that he would never treat me the way I had been treated in this place. Lost in my thoughts, I didn't realize that my mother had to whisper-yell at me, "Extend your hand!"

I obediently extended my hand, and Cassian gently grasped my fingers, sliding the ring onto my trembling hand. A jolt of electricity seemed to course through my body at his touch. It was only when the applause and cheers of the gathered crowd reached my ears that I snapped out of my reverie. As everyone celebrated, Cassian released my hand, leaving me yearning for the warmth his touch had provided.

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