Bryan's POV
I woke up that morning with the usual heaviness in my chest. Council meetings were never my thing, mostly because I was always treated like a spoiled heir who knew nothing beyond lifting a spoon to my mouth. But today, something in me simmered with defiance.
Maybe it was Knox’s son Cyrus mocking me during horse training the other day, or maybe it was the way Father barely acknowledged my existence unless it involved marriage arrangements or scolding. Either way, I decided I wasn’t going to sit through another meeting looking like a complete fool.
I dressed simply but sharply—black slacks, a tailored shirt, and boots polished enough to see my reflection in them. When I stepped into the dining hall for breakfast, Father was already there, seated at the head of the table like
