Dark Obsession

Vows in shadow

The grand chapel was bathed in flickering candlelight, the scent of incense mingling with the hushed whispers of nobles gathered to witness the union. Aria’s heart thundered in her chest as she took her place beside Prince Damien, the weight of the moment pressing heavily upon her.

The priest’s voice echoed solemnly through the vaulted ceilings, reciting ancient vows that seemed to bind her soul tighter with each word. Around her, faces blurred into shadows — some kind, some cold, all watching.

Damien’s eyes, dark and unreadable, met hers for a fleeting moment. There was no warmth there — only a distant intensity that sent a shiver down her spine.

As the vows concluded, the chamber held its breath. The moment had arrived.

The prince’s hand closed over hers, firm and possessive. Aria felt a mixture of fear and something unexpected — a flicker of connection, fragile and uncertain.

Whispers rippled through the crowd, speculation about the mysterious bride and the prince who never revealed his true self.

As they left the chapel, the cold air bit at Aria’s skin. The grandeur of the palace seemed to fade into a shadowed labyrinth she had yet to navigate.

Tonight, the true beginning would come — when vows would be tested and secrets unveiled in the darkness of the prince’s chambers.