A Love Crowned by Destiny

Chapter 1:The First Meeting

"Sachiko…I trust in you," her mother, Kayoko, said gently.

"Thank you," she replied softly, bowing to the estate she might never see again.

Her father’s words, however, lingered heavily. “Remember, if you fail to marry Prince Shinichi, you will not return to this house.”

Sachiko felt a daze overcome her, unable to find words or even react to her father’s harsh directive. Finally, mustering a smile, she took a deep breath, turned, and stepped into the waiting chauffeur’s car.

As minutes stretched into hours, the car finally halted, and Sachiko stepped out, her gaze falling upon the breathtaking palace before her. It was a world apart from the Yamashina estate, grander and more imposing than she had imagined. The cherry blossoms were in full bloom, their delicate pink petals drifting through the air, harmonizing with the colors of her kimono.

"You must be Lady Yamashina," a guard announced.

"Yes, that’s me," she replied with a polite smile, following him toward the palace doors.

Once inside, Sachiko felt herself sink inwardly, overwhelmed by the sheer grandeur. The furnishings gleamed with elegance, seemingly imported from Europe, and opulent chandeliers adorned the high ceilings. As her gaze drifted, she caught sight of a figure in the room—her future husband.

"Your Highness, Lady Yamashina has arrived," the guard announced.

"Hmph." The response was curt and cold.

Sachiko shivered, lowering herself into a deep bow. "Your Imperial Highness, I am Yamashina Sachiko."

Shinichi merely looked at her, his gaze piercing and indifferent, before turning his back.

"How long do you intend to bow like that?" he demanded.

"Oh! I’m sorry, Y-Your Highness," she stammered, rising quickly.

"Listen well," he said, his voice a frigid command. "In this household, you will follow my orders. Is that understood?"

"Yes…" Sachiko murmured, her voice trembling. She cast a furtive glance at him, thinking, *He’s certainly a handsome man.*