[Lavinia's POV — Imperial Palace—Late Night, After the Announcement]
The palace finally slept.
Not truly—this place never did—but the roar of celebration had faded into distant echoes, laughter dissolving into soft music and murmured congratulations. Torches burned lower. Footsteps thinned. Even the nobles, drunk on wine and scandal, had retreated to their chambers to gossip themselves hoarse.
And for the first time since tonight began, I was alone.
I stood by the tall window of my chamber, fingers resting lightly against the glass, watching the moon hang low over the gardens. Silver light spilled across the paths where tomorrow's rumors would walk freely.
Crown Princess. Soon-to-be Empress. And now—betrothed.
The word still felt unreal.
A soft knock broke the quiet.
"Enter," I said.
