Chapter 149 True Marriage

"A true marriage," he echoed, the words hanging in the charged atmosphere. "You propose a formal ceremony?" The Queen leveled a piercing stare at him. "Indeed. If your affection for Jane is as you claim, then a public ceremony before the court, a true vow before God, will solidify it. And," she continued, her voice taking on a regal tone, "to ensure your commitment to the realm, I will bestow upon you the title of Duke of Haverbroks. A title with significant lands and responsibilities." A collective gasp rippled through the advisors. Duke of Haverbroks? It was a prestigious title, one that had lain dormant for generations. The Queen's offer was unexpected, a gamble on her part as much as Lucian's. Lucian hesitated, his mind clearly calculating. The Duchy offered power, influence, a way to secure his future. But more importantly, it meant being bound to Jane, not by a fabricated alliance, but by a true, unbreakable vow. He turned to Jane, searching her eyes. Their gazes locked, a si