Chapter 277: The Wedding of the Century

 (Skylar's POV)

The world watched.

From the towering skyscrapers of New York to the distant villages in the Midwest, every screen, every broadcast, every digital feed was locked onto one event—The Classic's wedding.

Skylar stood in front of the full-length mirror, her gown cascading around her like a waterfall of silk and lace. It was a masterpiece—custom-designed, flawless, yet suffocating.

Just like this marriage.

A soft knock at the door.

She didn't turn. "Come in."

Ethan stepped inside, his usual sharp gaze scanning her before settling on her reflection. "You look—" He hesitated, then smirked. "Like a woman about to make history."

Skylar exhaled, placing a hand on her stomach. He didn't know. No one did.

Not yet.

She met his eyes in the mirror. "Does history feel like a cage to you, Ethan?"

He tilted his head slightly. "Only if you try to fight it."

She turned to face him. "And what if I do?"

Ethan's smirk faded. "Then you'd better be ready for war."

A heavy silence settled between them before the door opened again.

Cole.

"The Classic is waiting," he announced.

No hesitation. No room for doubt.

Skylar took one last look in the mirror, memorizing the woman staring back at her.

Then she turned.

And walked to meet her fate.

—

The Grand Capitol Hall – The Ceremony

The cathedral-like hall was draped in deep royal blues and gold, the colors of Chris Blackwood's reign. Military officials, world leaders, and high-ranking dignitaries lined the marble aisle, their expressions a mix of admiration and apprehension.

At the altar, Chris stood tall, composed, untouchable.

As Skylar approached, the hush in the room was absolute.

Every step she took felt heavier.

Every breath, shallower.

Then she reached him.

Chris extended his hand. She took it.

"You're breathtaking," he murmured for her ears only.

Skylar held his gaze. "And you always get what you want, don't you?"

His fingers tightened around hers. A silent confirmation.

The officiant cleared his throat, beginning the vows.

Chris Blackwood—the man who had seized a nation, rewritten its laws, and declared himself the sovereign ruler—was now making the final declaration of ownership.

Of her.