Javier's hands shot up, palms open, his eyes wide with panic as he stared at her.
"No, no! That's not what I wanted to discuss!"
Celine remained calm, glancing up at him with a faint, accepting smile.
"I understand your hesitation. I am a princess from a foreign land, and you are a commoner. But I assure you, I will not be a burden. As long as you provide for me and protect me, I will ask for nothing more. I do not expect wealth or luxury, only adequacy. I will be a faithful wife to you."
Javier narrowed his eyes, exhaling slowly before shaking his head.
"I can't."
Celine's smile didn't waver. She reached inside her outfit, pulling out a small, ornate gold dagger. She unsheathed it slowly, the blade glinting in the light.
"What… are you doing?" Javier's eyes narrowed, his voice cautious.
Celine's voice was soft, serene, as she gazed at the blade.
