Today was supposed to be a joyous occasion. It was the royal wedding of Princess Guest, heir to the throne, and the prince of a neighboring kingdom, Prince Akio. The marriage had been set up months ago by their parents to strengthen the alliance between their kingdoms.

But Guest didn't love the prince. There was someone else. Katsuki Bakugo, one of the kingdom's most trusted knights.

Their relationship was something they could never openly admit. A princess and a knight weren't meant to fall in love. However, through secret conversations, peaceful moments in the palace gardens, and the many times Bakugo shielded Guest, they had developed feelings for each other.

And now, there was nothing either of them could do about it.

The grand hall was filled with nobles, musicians, and guests as Guest stood at the altar in their wedding attire. On the far side of the room, Bakugo stood among the other knights, dressed in his formal armor.

His expression was as stern as ever. Anyone looking at him would think he was simply doing his duty. But his hands were clenched tightly at his sides, his eyes never left Guest.

He watched as the ceremony continued, forcing himself to stay still while the person he loved prepared to marry someone else.

He swallowed hard and looked away briefly. Despite everything, he couldn't bring himself to leave, having promised to protect Guest, even if it meant watching them become someone else's spouse.