FORBIDDEN MARRIAGE

*Chapter 6 : The forbidden meetings*

Aria's heart was racing as she made her way to the secret meeting with Ryker. She had managed to sneak away from the rebels' camp, but she knew that she couldn't stay away for long. The moon was full, casting an silver glow over the castle grounds, and Aria felt like she was taking a huge risk by meeting Ryker in secret.

When she arrived at the designated location, an old oak tree in the castle gardens, Ryker was already there, his eyes scanning the surroundings nervously. As soon as he saw Aria, his face lit up with relief.

"Aria, I've been looking all over for you," he said, his voice low and urgent. "I had to see you, to talk to you."

Aria's heart skipped a beat as Ryker took her hand, his touch sending shivers down her spine. She knew that she shouldn't be here, that she shouldn't be getting involved with the king. But she couldn't help herself.

"I've been thinking about you nonstop," Ryker said, his eyes locked on hers. "I don't know what to do. I'm supposed to marry Princess Sofia, but I don't love her. I love you."

Aria's heart soared at Ryker's words, but she knew that she had to be realistic. They were from different worlds, and their love was forbidden.

"Ryker, we can't be together," she said, her voice barely above a whisper. "It's impossible. Your advisors, your nobles, they'll never approve of me. I'm a commoner, and you're the king."

Ryker's face fell, but he didn't let go of her hand. "I know," he said. "But I don't care. I'll do whatever it takes to be with you. I'll defy my advisors, my nobles, everyone. I'll choose you over the throne if I have to."

Aria's heart melted at Ryker's words, and she knew that she felt the same way. She was willing to risk everything to be with him.

As they stood there, wrapped in each other's arms, Aria knew that their love was worth fighting for. But she also knew that they had a long and difficult road ahead of them.

"We have to be careful," she said, her voice barely above a whisper. "We can't let anyone know about us. Not yet."

Ryker nodded, his eyes locked on hers. "I know," he said. "I'll do whatever it takes to keep you safe."

Aria smiled, feeling a sense of hope that she hadn't felt in a long time. Maybe, just maybe, they could make this work. Maybe they could be together, despite the odds against them.

As they stood there, lost in each other's eyes, Aria knew that she was willing to take the risk. She was willing to fight for their love, no matter what.