g softly through the lattice windows and pooling onto the marble floors like liquid st

mpanying his restless thoughts. The day's ceremony still replayed in his mind - the solem

ged himself to remained a mystery, as distant and untouch

irah stretched endlessly, a tapestry of gold and shadow, wealth and whispers. Somewhere in that vas

the delicate parchment scented faintly with rose and oud. The words seem

mething inside him stirred - hope, ma

oft knock brok

breath

Gone was the heavy crimson veil from their wedding. Instead, she wore a lighter silk

ht the curve of her neck and the gentle line of her jaw.

questions - but found his voice caught

he asked softly, br

ing hard. "No. Not of you. Bu

sad and tender. "I never imagi

ht there would be laughter, friends, c

for a moment before she look

eeping a respectful distance. "This marriage - it's more than a contract to

ho had hidden behind layers of mystery was showi

your name,"

, eyes shimmering. "W

before his fingers brushed hers. The tou

or trusting

ned. "Thank you

quiet room, letting the silen

ftly - a world of secrets,

trangers began weaving a fragile tapes