She looked at her parents, their faces full of hope. She knew they wanted the best for her and for the kingdom. A strong marriage was a way to guarantee Elysia's future.
The silence from the King's declaration stretched. It vibrated. Viana felt the warmth of the room, but also a chill deep in her bones.
This was it. The moment her two lives collided. The Viana of this life, the princess who survived and saved her kingdom, versus the Viana from before, the one haunted by shadows and driven by a secret purpose.
She considered Rayne again. He was a good man. Strong, kind, attentive. Not like Lazarus. Never like Lazarus.
Lazarus had been a viper in silk, his touch poison. Rayne's touch was warm, reassuring. He genuinely cared.
She saw it in his eyes. She felt it in his presence. The thought of a life with him could be comforting, could be safe. A different kind of future. A peaceful one. But peace was a luxury she doubted she could afford.
