Chapter 129 A marriage of convenience all too real

When it came time to exchange vows, Lucian took her hand, his touch sending a jolt through her. He looked into her eyes, the sea green depths swirling with an emotion she couldn't decipher. "Jane," he began, "...his voice a low rumble that vibrated through her. 'I vow to stand by you, through thick and thin, in sickness and in health. I vow to protect you, to be your confidant, and your partner in this endeavor, for as long as fate allows.'" His words were simple, yet held a depth that resonated with Jane. The playful teasing, the facade of a convenient marriage – it all seemed to fade away in the face of his sincerity. A strange sense of security washed over her, a feeling that perhaps, in the midst of this crazy adventure, she had found an unexpected ally, maybe even a friend. Taking a deep breath, Jane met his gaze, her heart pounding a frantic rhythm against her ribs. "Lucian," she said, her voice surprisingly steady, "I vow to trust you, to support you in this mission. I vow to