The cool night air kissed my skin as I stepped onto the balcony with Lydia. The world beyond was painted in silvery hues, the moon casting its glow over the castle grounds.
The soft hum of the celebration below faded into the background as the heavy oak doors behind us clicked shut.
For the first time tonight, it felt like it was just us. No guests, no servants, no endless formalities. Just Lydia and me, standing under the stars.
Lydia leaned against the stone railing, the soft fabric of her wedding gown pooling elegantly around her. Her gaze swept over the night sky before settling on me, a gentle smile playing on her lips.
"It's beautiful out here," she said softly, her voice carrying a sense of peace that made my chest tighten.
"It is," I replied, though my eyes remained fixed on her.
Her gaze caught mine, her smile growing wider. "You're staring, Captain."
