Cassie stared at her father, resentment boiling within her. How dare he show up again? she thought bitterly. Without a word, she walked past him, anger simmering beneath her calm exterior. The force of her movement sent a gust of air that brushed against his face, causing his smug smile to freeze.
"Where are we heading?" Cassie asked Zarea, trying to redirect her focus.
Zarea pointed toward a beautifully designed carriage waiting ahead. "There, Madam."
Cassie nodded, though the weight of her gown made her steps slow and deliberate. As she walked, something strange happened—the heaviness of her gown suddenly lifted, making it feel light as air. Surprised, she turned to see if anyone had come to assist her, but there was no one nearby except Zarea, who stayed close by without touching her gown.
"What else should I expect? Strange land," Cassie muttered under her breath.
They reached the carriage, and Cassie climbed inside carefully. Zarea helped arrange the folds of her gown to prevent it from wrinkling. The ride was smooth but slow, giving Cassie time to glance nervously at the scenery passing by. Soon, they neared the entrance to the king's residence a massive black gate adorned with a golden lion head design that radiated authority.
Cassie's heart raced. This is a journey of no return, she thought grimly.
Sensing her tension, Zarea offered words of comfort. "Madam, don't worry. You won't regret this."
Cassie forced a weak smile. "Hope so," she murmured, though chaos churned in her mind.
The carriage rolled through the royal grounds and eventually came to a stop near an opulent entrance. Maidens dressed in flowing pink and white garments gathered around, gracefully opening the carriage door. They helped Cassie step out, while Zarea followed closely.
As soon as Cassie stood on the ground, the strange weight returned to her gown, making it heavy once more. She swallowed hard, confused by the odd sensation. The maidens moved swiftly, lifting her dress as Zarea guided her toward a grand hall.
When Cassie stepped inside, she was stunned beyond words. The hall was magnificent, decorated with lavish details that shimmered under the warm glow of chandeliers. Gold-trimmed drapes hung elegantly from high ceilings, while fresh flowers lined the pathways.
Cassie's lips curled into a bitter smirk. Is the king trying to win my favor with these decorations? she wondered, fighting the urge to scoff aloud.
"Madam, cheer up," Zarea whispered gently. "You must smile."
Cassie swallowed hard and forced a smile, though it felt unnatural.
All eyes turned to her as she walked through the hall. Murmurs spread as people admired her beauty. Her delicate skin glowed under the soft light, and her graceful, swan-like appearance drew attention despite her attempts to blend in.
Stage fright gripped her, but she did her best to avoid eye contact with the onlookers. Zarea directed her toward a reserved seat, positioned a little apart from the main audience. Cassie sat down stiffly, the gentle music playing in the background doing little to soothe her restless thoughts.
"Madam, would you like a drink?" Zarea asked softly.
Cassie nodded nervously, her voice failing her. Zarea rose gracefully and left her side, leaving Cassie alone to grapple with the weight of the situation.
"You look the most beautiful today," came a familiar voice from behind Cassie.
She turned swiftly and found Kael standing there, his smile wide, dimples deep, and his sharp suit adorned with golden accents. This time, his presence felt intimidating, his aura commanding attention.
Cassie's surprise quickly turned to anger. She had once thought well of Kael, but his involvement in luring her here left a bitter taste.
"What are you doing here?" she asked coldly.
Kael chuckled, his voice smooth as he sipped his drink. He stepped closer until only a breath separated them. His warm breath fanned her face, sending an involuntary shiver down her spine.
"Is that the thank you I get for saving your life?" he asked, his voice cold despite the smile that remained plastered on his face.
Cassie stiffened, unable to respond for a moment. He seemed completely different today. Pushing aside her discomfort, she pressed on. "Why did you bring me here?"
Kael laughed softly, taking a seat beside her. "I'm just following orders."
Before she could pull away, he gently took her hand and pressed a soft kiss to it. Cassie's heart skipped a beat despite herself.
Quickly, she snatched her hand back. "Stop it! We're in public, and I'm getting married today. Do you want the king to punish me?" She glanced around nervously but was surprised to see that no one seemed to notice them. The guests were engrossed in their conversations and drinks.
"Oh wow… You must love the king a lot," Kael teased, grinning mischievously.
Cassie clicked her tongue in annoyance. "Leave me alone. You're the last person I want to talk to."
Kael's grin faded into a smirk as he looked deeply into her eyes. "You think I betrayed you?" he asked, clearly amused, fighting the urge to laugh.
Cassie didn't respond. Instead, she stood abruptly, intending to walk away. But her shoe caught on her dress, and she stumbled.
Before she could hit the floor, strong arms caught her. The familiar scent of Kael filled her senses as she found herself pressed against his chest. She looked up, meeting his piercing sapphire eyes. For a moment, she was captivated, unable to look away.
Kael grinned down at her, breaking the spell. Embarrassed, Cassie quickly pulled herself out of his arms, feeling heat rise to her cheeks.
Kael chuckled at her reaction. "Staring deeply into another man's eyes on your wedding day?" he teased.
Cassie's lips twitched in irritation, her heart still racing. But she forced herself to suppress the inexplicable fondness growing toward Kael.
"Kael… I want to be alone," she said firmly.
Kael nodded and stepped back, giving her space. He walked away, but Cassie's eyes lingered on his retreating figure until he disappeared into the crowd. She let out a deep sigh. Was it wrong to feel drawn to this man—the very one who had betrayed her? And with her impending marriage to the king, Kael's presence might become a dangerous distraction.
Moments later, Zarea appeared with a tray carrying a beautifully designed glass. Cassie took it, the cool drink washing down her throat, bringing a temporary sense of relief.
"What took you so long?" Cassie asked, narrowing her eyes.
Zarea hesitated before replying. "It was crowded out there," she said, avoiding Cassie's gaze.
Something felt off. Zarea's odd behavior lingered in Cassie's thoughts, especially since Kael had shown up just before her return.
Shaking off the unsettling feeling, Cassie focused on her drink and finished it in one swift gulp.
Raising her head, she spotted her father standing nearby, dressed impeccably in a tailored suit that made him appear noble and dignified. His face bore a sweet smile, but Cassie remained indifferent.
"Congratulations, daughter," he said cheerfully.
Cassie's expression didn't waver, which caused his smile to fade into frustration.
"You ungrateful child," he spat bitterly. "Am I not the reason you're marrying the king today?" He attempted to mask his selfish actions with false purity.
Cassie simply stared at him, her resentment simmering beneath the surface, refusing to give him the satisfaction of a response.