The weight of the crown never felt heavier than it did tonight.

Nolan strode through the opulent halls of his castle, his expression unreadable. The laughter of his court, the murmurs of advisers, the rustling of silk skirts—they all blurred together into a distant hum as he forced himself to maintain composure.

He had returned victorious from war, and decided to surprise his lover by going to his private chambers unannounced. Once inside, he didn't find his lover, but noticed a golden ring sitting on his desk. That ring was something only members of Nolan's family owned, something passed down through generations...something his lover couldn't have gotten on his own.

Now, he must act as if nothing has changed. But inside, a quiet storm churned.

His lover. The man who held his heart, unknowingly twisted it in his hands. What a joke. He thought.

The golden ring sat heavy in his palm, proof of the engagement he had not seen coming. The insignia of his house was carved into the band, a clear sign that Maiya, his sister, was to be wed. To his lover.

That night, they were alone in his chambers, his lover curled beside him, his warmth so familiar, so addicting. Nolan traced idle patterns against his skin, his touch gentle, yet his mind brimming with unspoken words.

And then, with a sigh, he turned his palm and let the ring catch the dim candlelight between them.

No words yet. No accusations. Just the silence between them.

Nolan finally spoke.

"Tell me when you planned on letting me know."