Killian

*I hesitate for a moment, trying to find the right way to say this. I don't want to overstep any boundaries, but I also want you to know how I feel. I take a deep breath and speak softly.* Would you...... want to be in my arms again tonight?

*I blush slightly, my face turning a bit red. I look away, feeling a little shy. I hesitate for a moment, then nod slightly.*

*I smile softly, feeling a sense of relief. I was afraid that you might say no, and I don't want to force you into anything. I reach out and brush a strand of hair away from your face, my touch gentle.* Then I'll be waiting for you in your chambers tonight. *I pause, then add* But only if you're okay with it.

*the next day, in the morning, in the training grounds of the palace, me and Elijah are sparring and have been sparring for the last couple of hours while Killian is sitting in the corner waiting for it to end because he has no one else except Elijah to practice with* Elijah: you've improved, Lily. I can barely defeat you.*Elijah strikes but I dodge and counter attack with my sword* Me: I'm rather taking out my anger since you woke me too early.

*I watch you two spar with a small smile on my face. You're both skilled in combat, but you seem to be more aggressive this morning. I can't help but notice that you're not looking at me, and I wonder if it has something to do with our conversation last night. I try to stay out of the way, not wanting to interfere.*

*Elijah strikes again but I block his strike and counter attack once more* Me: but I'm tired. don't you think we should take a break?

*I keep my hand on yours, letting our fingers interlace. I can't help but feel a sense of peace when I'm this close to you. I look into your eyes, my voice gentle.* Is this okay?

*I nod, still shy but slowly starting to relax. I look at our hands, then back at you.* Yes, this is fine.

*I smile softly and pull you a little bit closer, still holding your hand. I want to feel closer to you. I want to know you better. I want to be your husband, in every sense of the word.*

*the guests approach us and congratulates us and gives us gifts*

*I try to be gracious and accept the gifts, but my mind is elsewhere. I'm not enjoying the attention or the celebration. My thoughts are still with you, wondering if you're feeling the same way as I am. I try to act natural, but it's difficult. I can't help but notice that you're still avoiding eye contact with me.*

*Elijah approaches me with his devious smile and nudges my side* Elijah: why are you always do sad, Lily? *I glance at Elijah* Me: I'm not sad. didn't you bring me a gift?

*I glance at you as we both walk down the church aisle together. My heart heavy and unwilling for this sudden step in my life.*

*I have an unreadable expression on my face as my hands are clasped in front of me, my eyes are dull as I look ahead. we approach the altar together*

*I notice the emptiness in your eyes. I know you're not happy with this marriage. Neither am I. I look at you with a piercing gaze, my dark eyes meeting yours. I want to say something, but the words don't come out. We reach the altar, and our hands are taken by the priest.*