Married To The Enemy Kingdom's Illegitimate Prince Novel

[MATURE CONTENT] A princess branded as society's disgrace finds herself wed to an illegitimate prince determined to despise her. When she becomes his sole refuge in an enemy kingdom, can either of them survive the hatred closing in around them?

Synopsis: The year 299 of the Lunar System witnessed a catastrophic event when a crimson meteor crashed into neutral ground separating Eldoria and Selvarys. The unearthed magical red stones ignited a devastating decade-long conflict between both kingdoms.

To bring peace and end the bloodshed, the monarchs of Eldoria and Selvarys forge a union between Princess Cynthia—a woman whose scandalized reputation precedes her—and Prince Lucian, the illegitimate offspring of Selvarys's throne.

Notorious for her rebellious nature and tainted past, Princess Cynthia remains her kingdom's last bargaining chip. She accepts the marriage despite facing ridicule and a failed betrothal, driven by her desire to protect her people from further suffering.

Prince Lucian, hardened by years on the battlefield, views this union with contempt. Yet as an illegitimate heir, defying his father's command means courting death within the palace's treacherous walls.

Bound by duty rather than affection, can this couple overcome the chasm of their conflicting loyalties? Will the relentless hostility of the enemy court allow them to find understanding, or will their marriage crumble beneath the weight of suspicion and hidden agendas?

Excerpt: "Why do you constantly look away when speaking to me?" Cynthia's voice carried an unmistakable challenge as she studied him intently. "Are you incapable of holding my gaze?"

Lucian's jaw hardened at what he perceived as mockery—the same cutting remarks he'd endured repeatedly. His emerald eyes finally lifted to meet hers, sharp with irritation. "Do you find amusement in goading me, Your Highness?" He closed the distance between them, his fingers tilting her chin upward as their faces nearly touched. His grip shifted to her shoulders, holding her in his penetrating stare. "Understand this—as long as you fulfill your role as my wife, I demand nothing more. But should you falter," his voice dropped to a dangerous whisper, "you'll discover the true cost of marriage to an enemy prince. You'll find yourself abandoned in a kingdom where no one will shield you, where even your own husband stands against you."

Cynthia's laughter—soft and mirthful—seemed to unsettle him completely. "I'll regret nothing," she whispered. "But you? You'll curse the day you wed someone you despised, especially when love becomes inescapable."

Disclaimer: Enemies-to-lovers narrative. Proceed with caution if this trope isn't your preference.