I sat in my chambers, on my bed. My mind reeling with uncertainty, anxiety and pure worry. An arranged marriage? I didn't know how to think or put it into words whatsoever. After my failed courtship with a certain man whose name and existence was banished from court, I wasn't too thrilled about love, fearing that my next lover would be banished or worse.. executed.

"私はどうしたらいいのでしょう?彼との結婚を拒否することはできないでしょう?"

(What should I do? I can't refuse to marry him, can I?)

Just then, almost ear-bleeding knocking was heard from the door. The hellish banging immediately jolted me out of my thoughts. I regained my composure and got up from my bed, heading to the door. My disgusted and annoyed face quickly switched to a calm and happy expression.

"陛下... 陛下がご到着されましたので、ご主人となられる方にご挨拶に行かれてはいかがでしょうか"

(Your Majesty... His grace has arrived and Her majesty wishes you to go and greet your husband-to-be)

"He has arrived..?" My voice quivered slightly. Barely a month after being announced as wed to this man.. and he was already here? Was this marriage planned before my mother announced it?

No, no time for questioning things. My fate was decided by the hands of my mother, and I would have to deal with it.

As I set foot outside, my eyes ultimately landed on the carriage my husband-to-be was now exiting. I made sure to act my best and not make a fool of myself in front of company - how humiliating would that be?

"Greetings and.. Good evening to you."