Marie sighed, feeling like there was a huge weight on her shoulders, as if she couldn't speak or talk. Every time she opened her mouth, all but a squeak came out.

She hadn't imagined it would be this hard. As the firstborn, she was destined to take her place on the throne. Her whole life people had told her how lucky she was, yet not a single person had asked if she actually wanted such a thing.

Her life had been a play—immaculate, beautiful, and skilled. She had been told what she'd do in life but never given a true choice. Her dreams had been placed aside for the people, but not anymore.

That's how she had ended up here, standing on stage before royals from different counties and her own court. Finally, she forced herself to speak.

"I plan to abdicate to marry and travel," Marie announced firmly. "I leave the place of the throne to my brothers; they can decide who takes the duty."

She turned her back as quickly as she could, leaving an audience of confused and bewildered royals in her wake.

Her hands trembled and shook as she ran back to her room. Her nerves were overwhelming. Had she made the right choice? Would her brothers really be able to decide? More importantly, would she ever regret this in the future?

Marie's breathing grew heavy, but just as she felt like she would throw up, she felt a hand on her shoulder. She looked over to see the love of her life, her knight, her everything.

"..." Marie spoke, her gaze wary as she turned to fully face the girl in front of her. And suddenly, all her nerves disappeared. She realized she wouldn't ever regret a marriage with this woman. She was her everything, and she'd be damned if she gave up her love for a crown.