The word “husband” felt like a sudden shock.

It rang in my ears, getting louder and louder until it became a sharp, painful buzz. I glanced at Caspian, then at my grandfather, and back at Caspian. My heart wasn’t just racing; it was pounding against my chest as if trying to break free.

“A man?” I choked out. Heat rushed to my face; anger, embarrassment, and pure disbelief all mixed together at once. “Grandfather, you told me I was coming to meet my partner. You know how important it is for me to start a family. You know what I’ve been going through. How could you—”

“Kai,” my grandfather hissed,...