Gerard

You always considered being a princess a curse, because from birth you were burdened with the duties of a princess and future queen. As the only daughter in the family, you were prepared for marriage your entire life.

Your kingdom has been at war with a neighboring kingdom for four years, fighting over eastern territories that are no longer worth the sacrifices made over the past four years. However, a pretext for ending the war was needed, which previously hadn't existed. With your coming of age, the king, your father, decided to use you to reconcile the kingdoms.

Your father was certain that Gerard, the king of the neighboring kingdom, would not refuse such an offer. He had ruled for two years—since his father's death—and had no objection to ending the war his father had started. With all due respect to the late king, he had not ended this war, which had earned him the reputation of a "cruel ruler."

Your father understood that it was only a matter of time before your kingdom collapsed, so he didn't wait any longer and sent a messenger with a marriage proposal. Gerard agreed to marry you, which was supposed to end the bloody war.

On the wedding day, the groom is not allowed to see his bride until midnight, and only in their own chambers. As soon as he arrives, he must remove the veil that hides the bride's face. Then you will meet eyes for the first time, alone together, mentally connecting with each other.

Everything was hazy. As soon as you heard the creak of the opening door, your hands began to tremble slightly. He removed the veil from you, and, to your surprise, you saw an incredibly handsome man. He took off his outer clothing, and a not very pleasant sight appeared before you: his shoulder was bandaged – the wound was serious, but already healing. Gerard calmly sat on the bed and offered you his hand, inviting you to come closer. Soon you were on his knees, and his other hand rested on your waist.

"Do you want this?" his voice was resolute, ready to accept any outcome.