**Chapter 17: A Glimpse of Vulnerability**

Kaitlyn couldn't shake off the feeling of unease as she sat in front of the mirror, her ladies-in-waiting busy styling her hair for the royal ball. The intricate updo was a masterpiece, with delicate strands framing her face and a few loose curls cascading down her back. Her blue eyes sparkled in the light, and for a moment, she forgot about the turmoil brewing inside her. As she gazed at her reflection, Kaitlyn's thoughts drifted back to Theodore. She had seen a glimmer of vulnerability in him that morning, a fleeting moment of weakness that had left her wondering. What was it about his past that had made him so guarded? And why had he chosen to share it with her? The door to her chambers opened, and Theodore stood in the entrance, his dark gray eyes locked on hers. "It's time to leave," he said, his voice low and husky. Kaitlyn stood up, smoothing her skirts as she met his gaze. Theodore's eyes roamed over her, his expression unreadable. For a moment, they just stared at each other, the air thick with tension. As they descended the stairs, Kaitlyn couldn't help but notice the way Theodore's stride ate up the distance, his long legs forcing her to hurry to keep up. They reached the grand hall, and the sound of music and laughter enveloped them. The royal ball was in full swing, with courtiers and nobles mingling and dancing. Theodore's hand closed around hers, his fingers wrapping around her wrist like a vice. Kaitlyn felt a jolt of surprise, but she didn't pull away. Instead, she let him lead her into the fray, her eyes scanning the room for familiar faces. As they made their way through the crowds, Kaitlyn caught glimpses of the courtiers and nobles, their faces a blur of smiles and bows. Theodore's grip on her wrist tightened, and she felt a pang of discomfort. Who was she kidding? She was trapped in this marriage, with no escape in sight. Theodore stopped in front of a group of dignitaries, his eyes locked on hers. "My wife, Kaitlyn," he said, his voice low and smooth. "I'm sure you're all aware of her beauty and charm." Kaitlyn's face went cool, her eyes flashing with annoyance. She forced a smile, her lips curving upward in a polite arc. The dignitaries bowed and smiled, their words of congratulations and admiration washing over her like a wave. As the evening wore on, Kaitlyn found herself lost in a sea of faces and conversations. Theodore's hand remained on her wrist, a constant reminder of his presence. She felt like a prize, a trophy to be displayed and admired. But as the night drew to a close, Theodore's grip on her wrist relaxed, and he leaned in close. "Let's get out of here," he whispered, his breath hot against her ear. Kaitlyn's heart skipped a beat as she met his gaze. For a moment, she saw something there, something that looked almost like... longing. She felt a flutter in her chest, and her voice caught in her throat. Theodore's eyes seemed to bore into hers, as if searching for something. Kaitlyn's face went still, her eyes locked on his. And in that moment, she felt a spark of connection, a glimmer of hope that maybe, just maybe, this marriage wouldn't be as loveless as she had thought. As they made their way back to their chambers, Kaitlyn couldn't shake off the feeling that something had shifted. Theodore's vulnerability had been a surprise, a glimpse into a world she hadn't known existed. And now, she couldn't help but wonder what other secrets he might be hiding.