**Chapter 16: A Morning After**

The warm sunlight streaming through the windows of the honeymoon suite highlighted the sharp lines of Theodore's face, illuminating the dark circles under his eyes. Kaitlyn, lying on her side, gazed at him warily, unsure of what to expect. Theodore, sensing her gaze, opened his eyes, and their eyes met in a silent understanding. Theodore's eyes seemed to bore into Kaitlyn's soul, as if searching for something. Kaitlyn, feeling a shiver run down her spine, turned her gaze away, focusing on the wall behind him. The silence between them was palpable, heavy with unspoken emotions. "Good morning," Theodore said finally, his voice low and husky, breaking the silence. Kaitlyn turned back to him, her blue eyes cautious. "Good morning," she replied, her voice cool. Theodore swung his legs over the side of the bed, his movements fluid and controlled. Kaitlyn watched him, her eyes drawn to the silver strands in his black hair, a mark of his status as the heir to the O'Neill throne. His dark gray eyes met hers, and for a moment, they just stared at each other. "I trust you slept well," Theodore said, his voice dripping with sarcasm. Kaitlyn's face went cool, her eyes flashing with annoyance. "I slept," she said, her voice detached. Theodore stood up, his tall frame towering over Kaitlyn. He walked over to the window, his back to her, and gazed out at the gardens below. Kaitlyn watched him, her eyes drawn to the way his broad shoulders seemed to relax, as if he was shedding a burden. "I know last night was...awkward," Theodore said, his voice low and husky. "But I expect us to put on a united front today." Kaitlyn's eyes narrowed, her mind racing with questions. What did he mean by a united front? And what exactly did he expect from her? She opened her mouth to ask, but Theodore turned to her, his eyes gleaming with intensity. "We need to discuss our plans for the day," he said, his voice firm. "We have a royal ball to attend this evening, and I expect you to be by my side." Kaitlyn's heart sank, her mind reeling with the thought of facing the royal court and the expectations that came with it. She took a deep breath, steeling herself for the challenge ahead. "I'll be there," she said, her voice cool. Theodore's eyes seemed to bore into hers, as if searching for something. Kaitlyn met his gaze, her blue eyes steady, and for a moment, they just stared at each other. Theodore's face relaxed, a small smile playing on his lips. "Good," he said, his voice low and husky. "I'll send for you when it's time to leave." With that, he turned and walked out of the room, leaving Kaitlyn to wonder what the day ahead held, and what exactly Theodore expected from her.