The air in the grand hall was thick with anticipation as the Primarch raised his hands, his voice echoing with solemn authority. "By the power vested in me, I now pronounce you husband and wife, the Archduke and Archduchess of Ayberia."
Everyone stood up and clapped for the couple.
As the words settled over the assembly, Jessamyn turned to Jerrick, her heart pounding in her chest. He stepped closer, his eyes filled with a mixture of pride, tenderness, and care that had weathered so many storms.
Their eyes locked, and in that moment, everything else faded away. Jerrick's hand cupped her cheek, his thumb gently brushing against her skin.
"Happy Birthday, Jessamyn," he whispered. "I am grateful you're born."
Jessamyn swallowed, unable to handle the surge of emotions rising from the bottom of her heart. She thought he had forgotten. Most of those around her had forgotten that it was her birthday, but he didn't.
