Zara followed Leonardo down a dimly lit hallway, the echo of her heels drowned out by her racing thoughts.
A grand chamber awaited them—rich crimson drapes, crystal chandeliers, an altar of roses, and velvet chairs lined for witnesses Zara couldn't see… yet.
Leonardo stepped forward, silk velvet suit flawless, his gaze locked on Zara.
"Do you take this marriage seriously?" he asked, voice low.
Zara's pulse raced, but she held her chin high.
"I do," she replied, steadier than she felt.
> System Alert: Public Status Activated
Photographers snapped in the shadows. A flash. A moment of roaring excitement.
Leonardo offered his arm. She took it, her ringed hand trembling slightly.
> System Suggestion: Emotional Restraint Engaged
They walked down the aisle—Zara's heart pounding like war drums. Leonardo didn't hold her hand, but she felt his presence like hot steel beside her.
The officiant—a cold-faced man in a tailored suit—cleared his throat.
"Do you, Leonardo DeLuca, take Zara Caine as your lawful wife?"
Leonardo's voice echoed. "I do."
"And do you, Zara Caine, take Leonardo DeLuca—"
Zara's voice wavered, then steadied. "I do."
> System: Mission "Appear United" started.
The officiant nodded, sealing the marriage. Two silhouettes stepped forward to hand them champagne flutes. Leonardo raised his glass.
"To new beginnings."
Zara mirrored him, fingers brushing the ring.
"To survival."
She scanned the crowd—but all faces were blurred to her. Just noise, applause, flashes of light.
Leonardo leaned in, voice in her ear.
"You look terrified."
She caught the faintest smirk in his eyes.
"I'm playing by your rules," she whispered, "but don't think you own me."
He paused, then whispered back, "I don't. Not yet."
> System: New Mission Issued: Uncover Leonardo's secret.
Zara's chest tightened.
The first public act of marriage—done. The game had begun.
They clinked glasses, stepping forward into the g
lare of flashbulbs, a united front with cracks already showing.