3. The Engagement

The gardens of Solaris Palace glimmered like a dream. Golden banners rippled in the breeze, enchanted lanterns hovered above like stars, and the scent of blooming roses perfumed the air. Laughter and music swirled around as nobles from every allied kingdom gathered to witness the long-awaited union between Solaris and Valtoria.

Lyra’s steps slowed as she approached the heart of the celebration. The staircase stretched before her, leading down to the courtyard where Kael, his family, her parents, and the assembled guests waited.

This was it. The moment she had ruined before. The moment she had allowed to slip through her fingers.

Her fingers clenched at her dress as she breathed deeply. Not this time. This time, I will protect what matters.

Kael stood tall at the center, his dark eyes searching for her the moment she appeared. Their gazes locked, and Lyra saw it the same unwavering loyalty, the same quiet strength that had carried him through battle after battle. But here, in this life, his eyes held hope instead of despair.

A hush fell over the crowd as the King of Solaris raised his voice.

“Today, we celebrate the union of two kingdoms through the bond of their children, Princess Lyra of Solaris and Prince Kael of Valtoria. May this engagement be a symbol of peace, strength, and unbreakable trust.”

Lyra’s heart hammered against her ribs. She remembered too vividly the lies Lysandra had planted in her mind during her past life whispering that Kael was dangerous, untrustworthy, unworthy of her. Lies that had driven her to say no. The memory of Kael’s shattered expression haunted her even now. But here she would give him a different answer.

Her mother stepped closer, smiling gently. “Lyra, do you accept this engagement?”

The air grew heavy. Guests leaned forward, waiting. Melody clasped her hands together, silently urging her to be brave. Kieran gave Kael a reassuring nudge. Even the bodyguards watched with sharp eyes, ready to protect but also quietly invested in the moment. Lyra’s lips parted. For a heartbeat, silence stretched then she lifted her chin, her voice clear and steady. “I do.”

The crowd gasped. Whispers erupted like sparks. No hesitation. No doubt. She had chosen Kael openly, proudly, in front of everyone. Her eyes never left his as she added, her tone strong, “Kael, I accept this engagement with all my heart. From this day forward, I promise to stand by your side.” Kael’s breath caught, his composure breaking into raw joy. His hand reached for hers, steady but trembling slightly. “Lyra… I swear I will protect you, always.”

Around them, cheers broke out. Melody squealed, tugging on Kieran’s arm. “Did you see that? She actually said it without faltering!”

Kieran smirked. “Looks like Kael won’t sleep for a week after this.”

Cedric elbowed Rowan with a grin. “Guess love really can melt even Lyra’s fire.”

Rowan chuckled. “Or maybe it makes it stronger.”

Elara clapped her hands, bouncing in excitement. “I knew it! Sister and Kael look perfect together!”

Seraphina groaned playfully. “Finally. Maybe now Kael will stop moping around every time Lyra isn’t near.”

Even the bodyguards couldn’t resist adding their voices.

Isla crossed her arms, a rare smile tugging at her lips. “About time. I was ready to drag her down here if she tried running.” Gareth barked a laugh, clapping Kael on the back. “You can stop pacing now, my prince. She’s yours.”

Raina inclined her head with a serene smile. “A bond forged by choice is the strongest of all.”

Talon grinned, his voice steady. “Then let’s make sure nothing threatens it.”

Lyra’s throat tightened at their words. They had always stood with her, even when she had failed them. To hear them speak with such warmth now it was almost too much.

But in her heart, she whispered words no one else could hear:

This is my second chance. I won’t let the villains twist me again. I won’t let Kael suffer. This time, I will protect him. This time, I will make them pay.

Kael squeezed her hand, his smile soft but fierce. And as cheers rose all around, Lyra knew she had begun to rewrite her fate.

Later That Night

The celebration wound down, and the courtyard grew quieter as lanterns dimmed, and guests retired to their chambers. Lyra slipped away into the palace gardens, seeking a breath of stillness after the storm of voices and stares. The moonlight bathed the roses silver, their petals glistening like dew-kissed gems. She pressed a hand to her chest, inhaling deeply, when a familiar warmth stirred behind her. Kael.

He stepped into the moonlight, his cloak brushing the gravel. “I thought I’d find you here,” he said softly.

Lyra turned, startled, though not truly surprised. Kael had always been able to sense her moods. “I just needed some air,” she admitted.

He studied her quietly, then smiled not the princely, polished smile he wore for crowds, but the one reserved for her. “You said "yes" today. I don’t think you know what that means to me.” Her heart ached at his sincerity. In another life, she had broken that very smile. This time, she refused to.

So, she reached for his hand, intertwining their fingers with gentle certainty. “Kael, I meant it. I’ll never doubt you again. Whatever comes, we’ll face it together.”

His thumb brushed across her knuckles, his gaze softening. “Together.”

As they stood there beneath the stars, Lyra silently vowed once more she would never let him fall, never let the darkness steal what was theirs. If fate had given her another chance, she would carve a new path with fire and vengeance.

And this time, nothing would tear them apart.

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