Candles flickered along the stone corridors, their flames casting long shadows that danced like restless spirits. Beyond the tall windows, the kingdom sprawled in darkness, unaware that its princess was counting down the hours until her life ceased to be her own.

Y/N's chambers were quiet. Too quiet. The wedding gown hung on a mannequin by the window, a cascade of white silk and pearls that gleamed under the moonlight like a beautiful cage.

She had dismissed her handmaidens hours ago. She had turned down supper. She had stared at the ceiling for what felt like an eternity, listening to the distant sounds of the castle preparing for the celebration that would bind her to a man she did not love.

And then, finally, she made her decision.

A knock at the door. Two knocks, then one. The signal she had arranged with him years ago, when they were still learning the rhythm of each other's footsteps.