The sun softly illuminated the gardens of Nivara Castle as Amara and Asier walked side by side, reviewing the final details for their wedding. The atmosphere was full of activity: servants and decorators moved back and forth, adjusting floral arrangements, organizing tables, and taking notes on the couple’s instructions.

  Amara paused for a moment to watch a group of maids laying white tablecloths with golden details over the long tables in the main hall. Asier, noticing that she had fallen behind, turned around and smiled, extending his hand to her.

  “What do you think so far?” he asked kindly.

  “Everything looks perfect,” Amara replied, taking his hand as they continued walking.

  Asier led her to a small corner of the garden where several apprentices were working on an arch decorated with white flowers. They sat on a nearby bench, silently watching the progress for a few moments. Finally, Asier broke the silence with a question that seemed to have been on his mind.

  “Amara, did you ever dream about what your wedding would be like?”

  The question caught her off guard. Amara lowered her gaze to her hands resting in her lap and took a few seconds before answering.

  “I never thought about it,” she said honestly. “I didn’t believe my wedding would be something that would make me happy.”

  Asier fell silent, and when Amara looked at him, she saw concern on his face. The softness in his eyes seemed different, as if her words had hurt him somehow.

  “And now?” he finally asked, almost cautiously. “Do you think this wedding could make you happy?”

  Amara felt guilty when she saw his reaction. Without thinking too much, she gave him a gentle smile.

  “Yes, I think so.” Then, trying to lighten the mood, she added, “In fact, if this wedding is going to make me happy, then I want something specific.”

  Asier’s expression shifted from concern to curiosity.

  “What do you want?” he asked with a small smile.

  “I want desserts of every kind. And I want the cake to be chocolate,” she replied casually, as if it were something trivial.

  Asier looked at her in surprise for a second before bursting into warm, sincere laughter.

  “That’s it?” he said between laughs. “Out of all the things you could ask for, you choose desserts and a chocolate cake.”

  Amara shrugged, amused by his reaction.

  “I don’t need anything complicated. I just want to enjoy something sweet.”

  Asier shook his head, still smiling.

  “Well, I can make sure that happens. You’ll have all the desserts you want, and the biggest chocolate cake we can get.”

  Amara laughed with him before looking at him curiously.

  “And you?” she asked, tilting her head slightly. “What do you want for the wedding?”

  Asier remained silent for a moment, gazing toward the horizon as if searching for the answer in the sky. Finally, his expression softened, and a faint nostalgic smile appeared on his lips.

  “Purple flowers,” he said calmly. “I want there to be purple flowers from Nivara.”

  Amara watched him attentively, intrigued.

  “Why those flowers specifically?” she asked with a gentle smile.

  Asier lowered his gaze, as if remembering something. The nostalgia on his face was evident, but there was also warmth in his expression.

  “They remind me of my mother,” he finally said. “When I was a child, she used to take me to the fields of purple flowers that bloom at the beginning of spring. She told me they were a symbol of Nivara’s strength and beauty. Sometimes, when I think of her, I imagine she’s among those flowers, as if she never really left.”

  Amara felt a knot in her throat when she heard the story, but she didn’t want to sadden the moment. Instead, she smiled sweetly.

  “Then we’ll have purple flowers. Lots of purple flowers. They’ll make the wedding beautiful.”

  Asier looked at her, his expression shifting to one of relief and gratitude.

  “Thank you, Amara.”

  She shook her head, brushing it off.

  “You don’t have to thank me. I’m happy to include something that means so much to you.”

  After that exchange, they both stood up from the bench and continued with the preparations. They reviewed decorations, spoke with the banquet coordinators, and even took a moment to sample some of the desserts that would be served. Amara couldn’t help laughing when she saw Asier trying a strawberry cake with an exaggerated look of approval.

  The midday sun illuminated the castle gardens as Amara and Asier continued with the wedding preparations. Despite the bustle of servants and decorators rushing back and forth, the calm between the two of them seemed unbreakable. Amara went over a list of details with one of the planners while Asier inspected the decorations in the main hall.

  From time to time, Nico and Duke Lucas arrived to speak with Asier about war preparations. They both brought maps, reports, and detailed strategies. Nico, always energetic, spoke quickly while pointing to locations on the maps, and Asier listened attentively, nodding occasionally and asking precise questions.

  Amara, watching them from a corner, couldn’t help but feel uneasy. The war was approaching, and although she tried to focus on the wedding preparations, the thought of Asier on the battlefield would not leave her mind. Taking advantage of a moment when Nico and Asier were discussing something privately, Amara approached Duke Lucas, who was standing near a table reviewing documents.

  “Duke Lucas,” she began, worried, “may I ask you something?”

  The duke looked up from the papers and gave her a cordial smile.

  “Of course, Amara. What is it?”

  Amara lowered her voice slightly, unsure how to express what she was feeling.

  “I’m worried about Asier… about the war. I can’t stop thinking that something could go wrong, that he could be hurt while fighting.”

  Duke Lucas observed her for a moment, as if weighing her words. Then his expression softened, and he spoke in a reassuring tone.

  “I understand your concern, but you shouldn’t fear for him. Asier is the strongest soldier the nations have ever seen. His skill with a sword is magnificent, and his magic…” the duke let out a small laugh. “Well, his magic is unmatched. It’s far more powerful than anyone’s in Aeloria.”

  Amara frowned slightly, still unsure.

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  “Do you really believe that?”

  Lucas nodded firmly.

  “I don’t just believe it—I know it. I’ve seen Asier on the battlefield many times. He’s a brilliant strategist and a warrior who inspires everyone who fights at his side. He’s someone you can trust, Amara. I know war is dangerous, but if there’s anyone capable of winning this one, it’s him.”

  Amara looked at him silently, trying to absorb his words.

  “You should focus on your wedding preparations and not worry so much about everything else,” the duke added with a warm smile. “Trust Asier. And besides, I’m sure it will be a beautiful wedding and a very special day.”

  Amara smiled, though the unease still lingered in her heart.

  “Thank you, Duke Lucas. I hope you can join us at the wedding.”

  The duke nodded enthusiastically.

  “Of course I’ll be there. I wouldn’t miss that day for anything in the world.”

  Amara thanked him once more before returning to Asier, who had just finished saying goodbye to Nico. When he saw her approaching, Asier raised an eyebrow, noticing the slight concern on her face.

  “Everything okay?” he asked.

  Amara nodded quickly, forcing a smile.

  “Yes, everything’s fine. I was just talking to Duke Lucas about the wedding.”

  Asier seemed to relax and offered her his arm.

  “Then let’s get back to the preparations. There’s a famous bakery in Nivara I want you to try. I want to make sure the chocolate cake is perfect.”

  Amara let out a small laugh and accepted his arm.

  “As long as you don’t let me stuff myself with desserts before the wedding… fine.”

  They walked together, leaving behind the agitation of war matters, even though deep in their hearts they knew the coming conflict still loomed over them like a shadow. But for now, they had a moment to enjoy. Amara decided to cling to that small peace, at least for a while.

  When the wedding preparations came to an end for the day, Asier approached Amara, who was admiring the final floral arrangements with a satisfied smile.

  “Before we return to the castle, there’s a place I want you to come with me,” Asier said mysteriously, with a slight smile.

  Amara looked at him curiously.

  “Where to?” she asked, intrigued.

  “It’s a surprise,” he replied, offering her his hand.

  Amara took his hand, and together they walked to the town, where the light of sunset painted the rooftops in golden tones. They stopped in front of a small shop adorned with display windows full of delicately crafted jewelry. A middle-aged woman with a kind, radiant expression greeted them with a bow.

  “Your Majesty,” the woman said enthusiastically, “it’s an honor to have you here. You have no idea how happy I am that you chose my shop for such a special request.”

  Amara, confused, looked at Asier.

  “What are we doing here?” she asked him.

  Asier turned to her with a smile full of warmth.

  “In Nivara, there’s a special tradition for couples who are about to be married. It’s customary to obtain a matching pair of earrings, symbolizing that although each person remains unique, in marriage their lives intertwine. They represent how, as two different individuals, together they form something greater and stronger.”

  Amara fell silent for a moment, taking in his words. Then a faint blush colored her cheeks.

  “It’s a beautiful tradition,” she admitted, feeling a lump in her throat.

  Asier introduced Amara to the shop owner as his fiancée, and the woman smiled widely.

  “Oh, how wonderful!” she exclaimed. “I promise you’ll find the perfect earrings.”

  She began showing them several options: pairs with sapphire inlays that shimmered like the night sky, others with small diamonds reflecting warm light, and some with delicate white gold leaves that looked hand-engraved.

  “Do you have something in mind?” the woman asked after showing them several pieces.

  Asier looked at Amara with a smile.

  “What do you think? What would you like to wear?”

  Amara thought for a moment, unsure how to answer.

  “I hadn’t thought about it,” she said a little nervously. “Any would be fine, as long as we both wear them. But… if I had to choose, I’d like them to be purple.”

  Asier raised an eyebrow in surprise and looked her straight in the eyes.

  “Why purple?” he asked curiously.

  Amara blushed a bit more, feeling vulnerable as she expressed her thoughts.

  “Because it seems to be the color that brings you the most peace,” she admitted softly. “You always look more relaxed when you’re surrounded by purple flowers.”

  Asier stared at her for a moment, surprised by her attention to such an intimate detail. Then he smiled, grateful, with an expression that revealed a vulnerability rarely seen in him.

  “Are you sure?” he asked gently.

  Amara nodded firmly.

  The shop owner began showing them earrings with purple-toned gems: bright amethysts set in silver, small lilac quartz stones surrounded by golden filigree, and finally a simple yet elegant pair with small lavender sapphires set in a design of intertwined leaves. They both chose the last pair, feeling it perfectly represented their union.

  When they left the shop, Amara felt excited and happy. However, Asier stopped her before they began walking back.

  “We’re not done yet,” he said with a playful smile.

  He guided her to another nearby shop, this time a jewelry store specializing in rings. Amara looked at him, even more intrigued.

  “And now what?” she asked, amused.

  Asier cleared his throat, a little nervous.

  “I recently visited the kingdom of Gandia and learned about a tradition I found interesting. There, couples destined to be together exchange rings as a symbol of their commitment and… love.”

  Amara looked at him, surprised by the sincerity of his words and, even more so, by his use of the word love. Her cheeks flushed slightly, but she couldn’t help smiling.

  “If rings are to be exchanged,” she said teasingly, “then you should choose one too.”

  Asier blushed at the implication that she felt the same way. With a quick nod, he agreed.

  They both began examining the rings on display. Amara suggested that since she had chosen the color of the earrings, Asier should choose the rings. Thoughtful, Asier looked her directly in the eyes and, after a moment, quickly asked the attendant if there were rings with gems that matched the color of Amara’s eyes.

  Amara was left speechless, surprised by his choice. Finally, they selected a pair of rings adorned with small sky-blue gems that seemed to capture the light with ethereal intensity.

  When they returned to the castle, Asier led her to the highest balcony. Night had fallen, and the stars shone above them like silent witnesses.

  “The earrings will be exchanged during the wedding ceremony,” Asier said, taking the rings from his pocket. “But I’d like to exchange the rings now, if you agree.”

  Amara smiled, deeply moved.

  “I’d love that,” she replied softly.

  Asier took her hand carefully and, as he slid the ring onto her finger, looked into her eyes with an intensity that made Amara’s heart race.

  “Although our engagement began as a plan to take revenge on Aeloria,” Asier began vulnerably, “since meeting you, I’ve never felt anything like this for anyone. I don’t know if you feel the same, but I promise I’ll do everything I can to make you happy for the rest of my life because… I love you.”

  Amara was speechless for a moment, then took Asier’s face in both hands and, with a voice full of emotion, replied:

  “You’re wrong, Asier. I do feel the same way. I don’t know what the future holds for us, but right now I want to be by your side always—not just as your wife, but as someone you can trust and feel comfortable with. Because… I love you too.”

  Amara took the ring and, with trembling but determined hands, placed it on Asier’s finger.

  Asier hugged her, happier than ever before, and Amara returned the embrace, feeling that her heart was complete. When they pulled apart, Amara looked into his eyes again and, before he could say anything, kissed him.

  The kiss began softly, full of emotion and tenderness, but soon grew deeper and more passionate. Asier held Amara’s face with one hand while the other slid gently down her back, pulling her closer. Amara, in turn, tangled her fingers in Asier’s hair, losing herself in the intensity of the moment.

  Their breaths mingled, and every touch seemed to ignite a deeper fire between them. Amara couldn’t think of anything but Asier and how he made her feel whole, safe, and desired. The intensity of the kiss and the way Asier’s hands explored her back made her tremble with emotion.

  When they finally pulled apart, both were flushed, their breathing uneven. Asier smiled, caressing her cheek.

  “I can’t wait to marry you,” he whispered. “You are the most beautiful woman I’ve ever known.”

  Amara, unable to contain her feelings, kissed him again, this time with even more intensity, letting all her love and passion pour into that moment.

  In that instant, beneath the starry sky, they forgot the outside world. There were only the two of them and the love that had grown between them—a love that promised to be eternal.