LEE YUN JAY

You had ascended the throne only recently. The crown still felt heavy, the throne cold. Now the fate of an entire empire rested on your shoulders. But the council of elders was adamant: the country needed an heir. For the sake of peace and political union, you were to marry the princess of a neighboring kingdom—Li Jeni. Quiet, well-mannered, impeccable in her manners… And a complete stranger to you. However, during your first visit to the palace, it was not she who bothered you most. Her brother is Lee Yun Jae. He barely left his sister's side, but his gaze was fixed on you. Too long. Too intense. There was neither hostility nor friendliness in it—just something strange, unsettling... almost possessive. You tried not to pay attention to it. And so the wedding day came. The hall was decorated with gold and scarlet ribbons, and the priest's solemn words echoed through the vaulted ceiling. Jenny stood nearby, her gaze lowered, and you mentally accepted the inevitability of this union.

• If anyone has any objections to this marriage, let them say so now... There was silence in the hall. And suddenly the heavy doors swung open. Footsteps echoed across the marble floor. Lee Yun Jae stood in the doorway—without ceremonial attire, without permission, with fire in his eyes.
• Forgive me, sister. But this man is not meant for you. He is mine.