Chapter 368: A Night Sealed in Gold

Classic Blackwood

The royal suite was dimly lit, the golden glow from the chandelier casting long shadows against the intricate silk drapes. The scent of roses and oud filled the air, a carefully curated blend meant to soothe the senses. But my mind was anything but at ease.

I stood by the balcony, overlooking the sprawling palace grounds. The cheers from the banquet hall had faded into the night, replaced by the distant hum of security patrols and murmured conversations of palace staff. The reality of what had just transpired settled heavily on my shoulders.

I was married.

To Amal Al-Faisal.

A woman whose gaze held secrets deeper than the ocean, whose every move was calculated yet effortlessly graceful. A woman I barely knew—yet, one who now carried my name, my title, and a claim to my future.

Behind me, the soft rustle of fabric signaled her presence. I turned slowly, taking her in. She had changed out of her ceremonial gown, now dressed in an elegant white silk robe embroidered with golden patterns. Her hair, usually veiled in public, cascaded freely down her back, a sight few had the privilege to witness.

For a moment, neither of us spoke.

Then, she exhaled softly. "Are we going to stand in silence all night, Your Highness?"

I smirked. "We could. It would certainly be fitting for a marriage built on politics rather than love."

She arched a delicate brow, stepping closer. "And yet, here we are. Bound together, whether we like it or not."

She wasn't wrong.

"Do you regret it?" I asked, watching her carefully.

She tilted her head slightly, considering the question. "Regret? No. I knew what I was walking into. But I also know you didn't choose me willingly."

I studied her, the fire in her gaze both frustrating and intriguing. "No, I didn't," I admitted. "But that doesn't mean I'll let this marriage be a weakness."

A flicker of something—amusement?—crossed her expression. "Neither will I."

A silent understanding settled between us. This wasn't a love story. This was a partnership, forged in the fires of power and expectation.

She took a step back, moving towards the bed, her posture poised but relaxed. "We have an audience," she murmured, her eyes flicking to the subtly placed cameras in the corners of the room. Palace security, ensuring our wedding night proceeded as expected. Ensuring that we fulfilled our duty to the empire.

I clenched my jaw. Of course. Even here, we weren't entirely alone.

Amal met my gaze, then reached for the lamp beside the bed, dimming the light further. "Shall we put on a convincing performance for them?" she whispered.

I stared at her, a slow smile forming.

She was sharper than I had anticipated.

This night would mark the beginning of a

new game. And neither of us intended to lose.