Chapter 55: Rebel
The Empress blinked, clearly not expecting resistance from her son. "Cassian," she began, her tone was sharp, "This is a gift. A symbol of-"
Cassian interrupted, he looked right into his mother’s eyes and spoke firmly, "You’re putting Adeline in an impossible position, Mother."
The Empress’s eyes narrowed, and her voice was devoid of warmth. "I am simply recognizing the most worthy young woman in this hall. Surely, you don’t have a problem with that?"
If he publicly rebels against her, he deserves more than just a whipping. She will show what happens when he crosses her.
Cassian understood what she meant. He didn’t fear her... He was conditioned to follow her orders. To break that cycle, it took all of his might. But when he saw the relief on Adeline’s face he knew he had to do this.
He would be lying if he said it didn’t sting. Adeline was so against getting engaged to him. He let out a deep breath, it would be fine. He knew that he would be able to change her mind.
"I do. I don’t like to be forced into things."
A ripple of shock swept through the crowd. Nobles exchanged glances, unable to believe that the Crown Prince would dare defy his mother so openly. The Empress’s expression hardened, a chill settling in her eyes.
The Empress’s fingers tightened around the necklace, her knuckles turning white, but after a long pause, she lowered her hand.