Considering their union objectively, Reid saw a new side to Dexter. Like Gordon, Dexter held a prominent position as a commander to the soldiers. Eldon had forced Gordon to marry a docile woman from a strong county loyal to the king in order to ensure the army remained devoted to him and to strengthen his own position. It was the king’s way of making sure a powerful man like Gordon remained under his influence and control. Nara also wanted her son to marry a woman from a powerful county. However, she didn’t want him attached to a docile and accommodating woman. Nara wanted her son to marry a woman who would fight the cause alongside him, someone who would challenge him, and someone who could help him lead Axian. Reid was here to fight on Axian’s behalf.

Up until this point, Reid had viewed Nara as a powerful warrior. Now Reid understood that even a woman like Nara had her limitations. The princess needed Reid to help strengthen her son and protect Axian’s future. The realization both humbled and honored Reid.

“I’ve been afraid marriage would make me weak. I didn’t want to lose part of myself.” Reid folded her hands, carefully considering her words. “I never realized the opposite could be true. That marriage could give me something.”

Reid addressed Dexter. “I know we are not well acquainted, and you are hesitant to trust me. The feeling is mutual. However, I do trust my father, and he wants me here. I also respect both Prince Henrick and Princess Nara.” After all, Henrick bore the mark of a Knight, and Nara embodied everything Reid admired. Taking a deep breath to shore up her courage, she gazed directly at Dexter and said, “I do see the value of us marrying, and I am willing to give it a shot.”

Dexter’s penetrating eyes remained focused on Reid’s, his face not giving away a hint of his thoughts or feelings. “My father and I have already spoken, and I agreed it’s in Axian’s best interest to align with Ellington.” He rubbed the side of his face, along his strong jawline. “I also believe we can stop Eldon if we work together, which is why I severed my relationship with Gytha.” He glanced at his mother as he said the last part.

Reid wondered how much of his decision to end things with Gytha had been based on his mother’s tumultuous situation when she first married Henrick. She inclined her head. “I appreciate you ending things with your lover in order to give our marriage a try.”

“I never said I was going to give it a try,” he retorted.

Reid opened her mouth to argue, but he cut her off before she could utter a word.