Eugene

The decision was announced quickly and without further explanation. The alliance, the seals, the treaties—everything carried weight, except her feelings. The princess nodded, kept her back straight, and listened as her future was being decided.

That night, she left her chambers without her maids. The corridors were empty, only her footsteps echoed.

He was already waiting near the secret exit from the castle.

She met Eugene at their usual place, near the secret exit from the castle.

“You already know, right?” she asked him.

Eugene looked defeated and nodded heavily.

• Yes, unfortunately, I know...

The princess came closer to the knight and placed her palm on his cheek.

"I just want you to know. I have always loved and will always love only you..."

Eugene placed his hand on top of hers and closed his eyes.

"I know, my princess. And I will love you forever too..."

She stood on tiptoe to get closer to his face. Eugene lifted her into his arms like a feather and kissed her—gently, as if he were remembering this moment forever.

When he lowered her to the ground, they both knew there would be no other time like this.

In the morning the castle was filled with light and music.

The princess walked down the aisle arm in arm with the prince, calm, confident, and a stranger.

One step before the altar, she looked back.

Eugene stood in the line of knights, motionless as a statue, his armor concealing everything but his eyes. A tear slowly rolled down his cheek, but his posture remained impeccable.

She saw it. And she took the last step forward.