Bound by fire, Claimed by love

Unspoken doubts

Evelyn stood frozen as the royal messenger's words echoed in her mind.

"His Imperial Majesty has decreed that the wedding between His Grace, the Duke of Ashbourne, and Lady Evelyn Ravenshire shall take place in three months' time. A grand ball will be held to announce this union."

Three months.

Not a year. Not six months. Three.

The weight of it pressed against her chest. Not that she had expected a long engagement—political marriages rarely afforded such luxuries—but the speed of it left her reeling.

"Lady Evelyn?" The messenger bowed. "His Majesty expects your presence at the palace ball in three days."

Evelyn swallowed, forcing herself to maintain composure. "Understood."

As the messenger left, she exhaled shakily. Three months. The emperor was making a statement—ensuring there was no room for opposition. But why?

A knock at the door interrupted her thoughts.

"Come in."

The door opened, and Damian stepped inside, his expression unreadable. "So, you've heard."

She studied him carefully. Unlike her, he didn't seem surprised. "You knew this would happen."

He inclined his head slightly. "The emperor is not a man who allows his decisions to be questioned. It was only a matter of time before he ensured our engagement became something permanent."

Evelyn clenched her fingers together. "And what if I wasn't ready?"

A flicker of something crossed his face—something almost hesitant. "Are you not?"

Silence stretched between them. Was she ready? For marriage? For him?

The past few weeks had changed everything between them. There was no denying her feelings anymore. And yet…

She lifted her chin, meeting his gaze. "Three months isn't much time, Damian."

His lips curved slightly, though his eyes remained serious. "Then we best make the most of it."