Chapter 9: ...will do us part

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Selina's POV
I ripped the veil that was given to me. It was in a fit of rage. There is no mystery where Adryan and I are concerned. Why hide behind a veil?

Trust the queen to quickly find a replacement like nothing happened. This one doesn't cover my face. I want people to see my grief. I want them to see I don't want this!

"I thought it would be important if we had a brief conversation about what is about to happen." The Royal Officiant addressed me. The Queen Mother is in here with us, as though to remind me that if I slip up, I'll lose my son.

My little boy... Is he doing okay without me? How much longer until we see each other again?

"It's not everyday a proxy marriage is carried out. If anything, the Sanctum does discourage this because of the negative implications-"

"It's no different from an arranged marriage." The Queen Mother interrupted him.

Relian is quietly observing us.

"Is Prince Adryan aware?" The older man asked her.

"He's not." I'm surprised by her honesty. "You have known Adryan since he was a boy. Do you think he would have agreed?"

He paid attention to me.

"What about you Lady Lenaya? Do you agree with this?"

No! She abducted my son! Help me please! Save me from this!

"We all have obligations bigger than our wishes." I answered.

"I must emphasize that according to Chea Nivan law, a proxy marriage is just as serious as a normal marriage. King Relian's presence is just as though Prince Adryan was here himself. His agreement to the vows is like Adryan's agreement. All vows made here today are binding to you, Lady Lenaya and to Prince Adryan regardless of his presence. Lastly, the consumation of this marriage is necessary for it to be recognized. How will that happen.when he's away?"

"There's no need for that. We have a chikd together." I frowned.

He frowned at the queen. "Like I said. You have known Adryan for many years. We all knew he will father a child before he settles down. Don't act surprised."

"Oh my. This is scandalous." He tucked his hand into the collar of his shirt. "Still, it's required. Given the extenuating circumstances, you will have a fortnight to consumate your marriage. After that, should it not be done, the marriage is null.

I can get out of this of I hold out!

"If that is all, I'd really like to see my unruly brother wed already." Relian told him.

"Let's proceed to the conservatory for the ceremony."

Author's POV
In the heart of Lokefar, in a sprawling palace garden, an intimate royal wedding is about to unfold. The two participants, one absent and the other unwilling are about to embrace a new chapter of their lives that neither one signed up for. While Prince Adryan imposes his authority in the Chrystal Isles, the daughter of a Duke carries the crashing weight of an arranged marriage all by herself. Unable to weep any further, she is beginning to embrace her reality.

Inside the embrace of the glass conservatory that has served as the jewel of the Lokefar palace, guests have settled. This time it's not for the Duchess's famous tea soirees but a royal wedding! The conservatory boasts a magnificent dome-shaped roof, a masterful work of artistry in glass and steel, allowing the warm sunlight to filter through like golden threads.

The fragrant beauty of peach peonies and roses, which make up the bride's bouquet, grace each chair with their delicate petals. The aroma of these exquisite blooms fills the air, a sweet prelude to the ceremony.

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