[Emperor Cassius's Pov]
He didn't stop.
"But that doesn't apply to your daughter's life, Cassius."
"What the hell does that mean?"
The room fell silent again, but this time, it was the kind that came before a storm—one I knew I wouldn't be able to stop.
"It means just because you chose to avoid marriage and romance like a plague doesn't mean Princess Lavinia will follow your lead. One day she's going to fall in love."
My entire body locked up. "She will not."
"Oh, she will. And not with someone you approve of."
He leaned forward again, looking far too entertained.
"Just imagine it, Cassius. One day, a boy on a white horse from another kingdom rides into Elarion. Maybe he has curly hair. Big eyes. He recites poetry. Princess sees him in the garden. Her heart flutters. They exchange flowers. Letters. Next thing you know, she runs off to his castle like it's a bloody fairy tale."
My fingers clenched into fists.
"I will kill that bastard."
