In a city ruled by a secretive Coalition, the gap between rich and poor is evident. When the leader dies, a fierce competition arises. James Roarke believes he’s destined to lead. To secure his place, he chooses Kleya Dane as his wife, drawn to her kindness for all, regardless of wealth.
Together, they form an unbreakable bond, but power comes at a price. As the competition intensifies, James learns that to claim leadership, he must make an unimaginable sacrifice: Kleya's life. Can love survive when ambition demands the ultimate cost?
Excerpt:
“I wanted to say thank you.”
Kleya raised an eyebrow. “For what?”
“Agreeing to this arrangement.”
“Did I have a choice?” she asked. “I know how this works.”
“You have a choice,” he replied. “I would never force you into something you don’t want to do.”
She nodded, and fell silent as she thought for a moment. If they did this, what would their marriage look like?
“May I ask you a question?”
“Yes, of course.”
“Am I to be just a figurehead for you to secure leadership?”
He narrowed his eyes. “That’s cynical.”
“Accurate?”
“I’m not going to lie,” he replied. “Yes, it helps, but that’s not the only reason why I chose you.”
That confused her. “What do you mean you chose me?”
“Photos were laid down and I chose you.”
“Oh,” she said. “That sounds a little cold. Did you close your eyes and point blindly for your choice?”
He chuckled. “No. I chose you because of something I observed one night at a banquet last year. You stood up for a servant.”
She wracked her memory for the incident. “I don’t remember.”
“That’s because it was a natural reaction for you,” he explained. “You weren’t putting on a show for anyone who happened to be watching. It impressed me.”
Surprise filled her. “I see. So, you’re all right with this arrangement?”
“Of our marriage?”
“Yes.”
“Of course, I am,” he replied. “I’m sure you’re aware of our roles in the Coalition.”
“So, you need a wife who knows her place?”
He cocked his head as he studied her. “Her place? That isn’t how I would describe you or our situation. Yes, we are part of a bigger picture and we have our roles, but that doesn’t mean we can’t be allies together. I want a real marriage, Kleya. I want us to become a united front.”
