Night had settled fully over the palace by the time Sebastian finally returned to his study.
The corridors outside had grown quieter compared to the chaos of the day. Most of the servants had retreated to their quarters or their evening duties, and the palace carried that strange calm that only came after a long day of preparation and noise.
Inside the study, a single lamp burned on the large wooden desk, its warm glow spilling across scattered documents, sealed letters, and several maps of the kingdom.
Sebastian stood near the tall window, one hand resting against the stone frame as he looked out over the palace grounds.
The gardens below were dimly lit by lanterns, the fountains quiet under the moonlight.
His shoulders felt heavier than usual.
Not from physical exhaustion.
From everything else.
The council meetings.
The wedding preparations.
The endless political conversations that seemed to multiply the moment the engagement was announced.
Sebastian exhaled slowly.
