Chapter 23

Isabeau's POV

King Stellan turns back to face me, his eyes searching mine as if to confirm my sincerity. "Are you sure about this, Isabeau? Once we begin, there's no turning back."

I nod, taking another deep breath, steadying myself. "I'm sure."

And with those words, our fate is sealed, bound together by a pact that holds both promise and uncertainty.

King Stellan smirks approvingly, he takes my small hand in his large ones, sending light tingles down my spine.

"A wonderful choice, dearest," he says, his possessive tone surprising me. "Well then, It's time to let everyone know who you truly belong to."

I try to tame the blush that rises to my cheeks at his words.

I nod at him, and try to steady my nerves as we re-enter the hall where my mating ceremony was supposed to be taking place.

The attendees are all gathered in groups and clusters, all gossiping about the drama they had just witnessed minutes ago.

The room falls deadly silent as people notice our return.

At the front right