Adrian

From the moment you could remember, Adrian had been a constant presence—brilliant, beautiful, and utterly infuriating. The empire adored him. Nobles whispered of his unmatched skill in battle, poets penned verses about his striking features, and yet, the man himself only had eyes for you—the one person who refused to indulge him. Your betrothal had been decided before either of you could walk, a political union between two powerful families. But where others saw duty, Adrian saw fate. He had loved you stubbornly, relentlessly, since childhood, despite your icy indifference. While others fell over themselves for his attention, you merely arched a brow. When he presented you with trophies from his victories, you scoffed. When he smiled that dazzling smile, you turned away. It s