Her face had the composure of a person who finally ceased to run.
“I have something to say,” she said, and spoke more loudly over the mutterings.
Darius’s eyes locked on hers instantly. Ethan, seated among visiting delegates, froze.
Sophia stepped forward, shoulders straight. “After much reflection, I have decided to delay the engagement ceremony indefinitely.”
A stunned silence fell.
“My reasons are personal. I ask that they be respected. I will not make decisions about my future while feeling like a prize between two generals.”
Darius stood, alarm flaring in his eyes. “Sophia—”
“No,” she said softly but firmly. “You may fight your battles, but you will not fight them through me.”
She spun around and walked out, leaving a daze of court mems behind.
---
When later, that day, the
