"That is absurd," the words escaped Rafael's lips before he could think better of it. "Elinora would be a terrible queen. She is―"
King Recaldo held up a hand to stop him. "She was a perfectly adequate wife for Orion Elsher. Your brothers have also found her to be a good fit for our kingdom's queen. If you do not agree, it is of no consequence. You will simply forfeit your right to inherit my kingdom."
King Recaldo did not need to raise his voice for his last few words to echo through the hall. Rafael felt them sink into his bones, and a growing sense of horror began to envelop him. He wanted to be king so badly his teeth ached from longing, but the thought of marrying Elinora only caused disgust and dismay to churn in his gut, creating a rancid foam of hatred.
He only wanted to marry Soleia. She was the only woman he wanted by his side for the rest of his days. The words were at the tip of his tongue, but a quick glance at his father's face caused his words to die in his mouth.
