The piercing gaze, the lips that refused to smile, the graceful demeanor of a high-born aristocrat—and let's not forget the deadpan expression that somehow remained captivating.
Jet-black hair, the perfect posture of a knight, the cold gray irises, and the thick eyebrows that added to the impression of determination.
By God!
There was no flaw in this man—and that, unfortunately, was my own creation. Hah... damn me for describing this man's masculinity so perfectly.
That description emerged in the scene of the first night between the Crown Prince and Luisa. The prince, obligated to have children, forced himself into intercourse with Luisa—the woman he hated most.
That night, Luisa had to endure suffering. The prince wasn't gentle; he was rough, uncaring, and his immense strength tore her hymen without the slightest foreplay.
I'm going crazy!
Somehow, I had written such a cruel bed scene for Luisa. Now I understand how wicked I was.
"Lady Luisa, it seems you have something to discuss."
I swallowed hard and raised my head slowly. My body was trembling. Why was I so nervous?
"If you're not talking, we should just end this meeting. I think you understand, we don't need to sit across from each other just to spread rumors ahead of the wedding."
He was right. The entire country knew this marriage was purely political, and the entire country condemned Luisa for allegedly using her power to become Crown Princess.
"Let's call off this marriage, Your Highness. You can marry Lady Gremory as you wish. I'll make sure the Duke's family stays on your side."
His face turned stern. He stared at me as if he wanted to rip my head off.
Hey, Prince. You should be happy. I'm serious!
"Are you mad because I turned down all your invitations for the past month?"
It would be weak of me to get angry over that. Stupid! I'm not Luisa. And I'm not marrying you—a selfish, irrational, and cruel prince on the first night.
Do you think making love without foreplay is fun? You're crazy! I distinctly remember how Luisa bled profusely that night—and it was all because of you.
Argh... I'm really going crazy! All the rottenness inflicted on Luisa was my idea. And now I have to bear it alone.
"Lady?"
"Your Highness, shouldn't you be happy with this decision? You won't have to marry a woman you don't love, you'll still have political support, and you'll certainly be able to defeat His Highness Prince Lauren Von D'Glazia."
There was a smirk on his face. He seemed dissatisfied with my decision.
"I can't do this. You think I'll be swayed by this kind of attitude? If your goal is to attract my attention, this isn't the right way, Lady Luisa."
What? I seriously want to break off the engagement!
"I know you hate Gremory. So when you made this suggestion, I sensed you were planning something bigger—for me and the woman I love."
"Your Highness!" I nearly exploded. The accusation hurt. "I didn't think that far ahead. I was sincere—to you and Lady Gremory. I know you don't love me. Therefore, canceling this marriage is the most sensible decision."
He stood up and stepped closer. His eyes fixed on mine. Oh... Your Highness, you are truly handsome. I can see why Luisa fell in love with you.
"Lady, it seems you need a clearer explanation."
I looked away, but the man touched my chin and forced my gaze.
"I do love Gremory. But I also know that you have great influence in social circles, and you are suited to be Empress. I could have refused Duke Montpensier's conditions, but after careful consideration, this offers me more advantages. Gremory can become my concubine, and you remain Empress. It's not a difficult matter, Lady Luisa."
I slapped his hand away. Was this story going to continue following the script I'd written? Ah… I really need to try to revise this life—in person!
"Go home, Lady. The wedding preparations are almost complete. You just need to be quiet. You love me deeply, don't you? This is the only form of marriage I can agree to with you. And I won't accept any other form."
"Your Majesty!" I stood up. I wanted to slap him across the face. Damn it! Why so stubborn?
"Goodbye, Lady."
He turned and left me.
"Wait, Your Majesty!" I quickly chased after him.
"…"
"Wait!" I ran and blocked him. I didn't care about etiquette anymore. This was the only way I could be free. The only way to live in peace.
"Have you lost your manners? As far as I know, you hold noble etiquette in high regard."
"Forgive me, Your Majesty. I seriously want to annul this marriage. I realize I can't live without love, and this marriage will only be a thorn in both your and my side."
I swallowed hard. I hoped he would accept my request.
"I promise I won't bother you and Lady Gremory again. And the Duke of Montpensier will continue to support you."
"You're drunk, Lady."
"I cannot marry a man who loves another woman. And I don't want to share him with a concubine. So, it's best to annul this marriage. You will have power, remain supported, and be able to marry the woman you love. Please, grant this request, Your Majesty."
I was sure he was considering my request, but suddenly...
He quickly cornered me against a large pillar, his hand touching my chin.
"Lady Luisa."
I froze. What was this man doing?
"Look me in the eye."
That command...
Before I could think, he forced my gaze. Without warning, he kissed my lips—pressing them, sucking, and then biting my lower lip.
Ugh...
What the hell is wrong with this character of mine? Why is he crazy? I'm sure I've never written a scenario like this!
I gasped. All the air from my lungs felt sucked out of me by that kiss alone.
"I won't take a concubine. And even if I have to live in misery by marrying a woman like you, it's no big deal. I'd suffer more if I forced Gremory to become Empress."
"…"
"I love her. But I also love this empire. I know she's not suited to be Empress. Her nature is unchangeable, as if it were destined from birth."
"Then... you want to torture me in this marriage?"
"My relationship with Lady Gremory could have been hidden from the start. I'll be honest, Lady Luisa. I deliberately approached you, caught your attention, and made you fall in love. The rumors about me and Gremory were spread to further your interest. I knew you loved me—to the point of dragging Duke Montpensier into battle for that love."
What!?
I was shocked. What kind of truth was this?
Hey, damn it! I never wrote your past like that! I never made you have such plans in the novel!
"See you in five days, Lady. I'm really looking forward to our wedding. So, stay happy."
With that, the damn Crown Prince left, leaving me in complete disarray.
This is my novel. I wrote it all. I directed every single one of the characters' actions.
But... why are they acting on their own now?
Ah... damn it!
I better go home.