#Chapter44 Bride

Violet’s POV I swallowed, turning to Theodore. My eyes were wide, but I did as I was told. My hands were so small and delicate looking in his, trembling subtly. He smiled at me as the smoke weaved around our hands, tying them together. I wasn’t prepared for the jolt of awareness that went through me as the smoke became solid. My attention was narrowed to the man standing opposite me. Theodore’s presence seemed to fill the space between us, his gaze steady, his expression calm yet utterly serious. The High Priest spoke over us, but his voice sounded so far away until he asked Theodore to give his oath. “In fidelity,” he said. My heart lurched. “In love. In peace and war…” His eyes were glowing as he spoke. I could feel the magic he was evoking with his oath. I wanted to tell him not to be ridiculous, swearing the first king’s oath of marriage now, here, with all these people watching would not serve him, yet I couldn’t help but be swayed. His voice was so full of sincerity.