“Good Lord, I think she's already gotten you under her spell. I've never seen you react like this before." Gerald continued hysterically.Shawn's face continued to flush slightly, trying to hide his growing discomfort. "Don't be ridiculous, you Dumbass. We barely know each other. It's just like an arranged marriage, a political alliance. Nothing more."Gerald leaned back in his chair, a mischievous grin spreading across his face as he kept studying the never seen before soft expressions on Shawn’s face. "Oh, really? That's not what your eyes are saying. I’ve never seen this look on you before. You're smitten, my friend."Shawn's cheeks turned even a shade redder as he grumbled without saying anything.Gerald's eyebrows shot up in surprise. "Wow! The mighty King Shawn, captivated by a woman? I never thought I'd live to see the day when you'll fall in love again. This is going to be interesting."Shawn shot Gerald a mock glare, shaking his head. "I guess you've been reading too many ro

”No, it isn't your fault, My Lord. I alone, should be the one apologizing for the embarrassing mixup.” Catherine said, trying hard not to let her anxiety seep into her voice. She maintained a composed demeanor, hoping to convey sincerity and regret.Shawn’s gaze softened as he heard Catherine's genuine concern. He realized that his initial reaction may have been too harsh, fueled by his own insecurities and the mounting pressure of their impending marriage. Deep down, he understood that Catherine's misstep was an innocent oversight, not a deliberate act of disrespect. After a moment of silence, he finally spoke, his voice much softer this time."You need not apologize anymore, Catherine. We are all prone to mistakes," Shawn responded, his voice now tinged with a hint of remorse. A flicker of relief crossed Catherine's face, grateful for the king's understanding. She realized that their connection, despite its fragility, was built on a foundation of mutual respect and understanding. I

Just as the entire hall continued to buzz with astonishment, King Shawn spoke up again, his voice filled with sincerity and affection.“Lady Catherine, I would like to officially declare to everyone that you will be my future wife and queen,” he announced to the court with a firm voice, his words resonating throughout the grand hall and his eyes never leaving Catherine's face. He held her hands sweetly in his after he spoke as if they were the most precious treasure in the world.The hall fell silent for a moment, the weight of his proclamation hanging in the air. Catherine's breath caught in her throat, her heart pounding with a mixture of amazement and elation. Her heart swelled with pride as she stood by the king's side and faced the crowd. She was holding the bouquet of lilies in one hand while the other was intertwined with his. Just now, she felt genuine warmth from his voice, it didn't feel like he was faking it at all.Murmurs quickly rippled through the entire hall and one co

Catherine's cheeks flushed on hearing his question, realizing she may have misspoken due to how his handsome face twisted slightly with anger. But now wasn't the time to back down, she planned to open up to him as much as possible and understand the relationship between them this early before things get complicated. She took a deep breath, gathering her thoughts before continuing. “I... from your letter my lord. I mean your letter was really formal, I just thought that maybe you only wanted me to be the queen because of external pressures and not your real wife.”Shawn let out a frustrating sigh as he leaned back in his seat. His gaze lingered steadily on her bright and lovely face. “I see”."Uhm... Yes. I mean, I've always admired your dedication and commitment to your people. You carry the weight of the crown with great responsibility. But I also understand that marrying for duty rather than love can be a heavy burden to bear for anyone.”King Shawn's brow furrowed as he listened i

“Ehmm... let's go back to the ball and have that dance,” Catherine said sweetly, breaking the awkward silence.“Yes.” Shawn held her hand in his as they made their way back to the ballroom. As soon as they stepped in, all eyes turned to them as if they'd been waiting ages for the pair. The room fell silent, filled with anticipation. Catherine felt a mix of shyness and pride as they continued to make their way through the crowd with fingers interlocked. She couldn't help but blush at the attention they were receiving from everyone.She could feel her heart pounding in her chest as Shawn took her to the center of the enormous ballroom where the dance floor was located and pulled her gently into his arms. The onlookers couldn't believe their eyes. King Shawn had never stepped his feet on the dance floor of any royal occasion, talk more of dancing with anyone since he became king. He seldom participated in the grand festivities and even when he attended, he wore a bored face and leaves