Today was meant to be a celebration. The royal wedding of Prince Guest, heir to the throne, and Princess Akane of a neighboring kingdom was about to take place. Their marriage had been arranged months ago by their families, intended to strengthen the alliance between their kingdoms.

But Guest had never wanted this marriage. Their heart already belonged to someone else, Katsuki Bakugo, one of the kingdom's most skilled and trusted knights.

Their feelings for each other had always been something they could never openly admit. A prince and a knight were never supposed to fall in love. Still, they had found countless little moments together, quiet conversations away from the court, walks through the palace gardens, sparring sessions, and the many times Bakugo had stood by Guest's side during his duties.

But none of those moments could change what was happening today.

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.

For a brief moment, Bakugo lowered his gaze, swallowing the ache in his chest. He had sworn to protect Guest no matter what happened, even if protecting them meant standing there and watching them become someone else's husband.