And we didn’t choose this. Of course, I would pick Keryth. Over and over again. He’s the perfect man for me, and that’s why everyone should trust destiny.

Tired of being a sitting duck for the nobles to take shots at, I tug Keryth’s hand. “Let’s dance.”

He doesn’t say anything, but he gives me a panty-melting smile before guiding me to the most illuminated spot under one of the big chandeliers. Taking our cue, the musicians change the song to a basic waltz. A safe choice. All people of Valora know these steps, regardless of their birthplace or social status.

Keryth pulls my body close, pressing my torso to his. It’s the first time we’ve ever danced together, and a few notes in, I realize he’s good at it. His movements are flawless as we sway together.

I blow out a breath, letting go of some of the tension I’ve been carrying. Keryth spins me around, covertly copping a feel of my ass.

I’m actually starting to have fun when someone yells, “Why don’t you show us a Day Realm dance?”

Mid-twirl, I stop to find the man. His arms are crossed over his blue vest, and there’s a challenge in his eyes.

He wants me to share a secret from my kingdom. He wants to see where my loyalty lies.

Little does he know, one of the things I’ve been looking forward to the most is spreading my culture. Valora is one world. All of us have similarities—the same desires and goals. If we’re truly going to have peace, we need to share our customs.

“All right.” I step away from Keryth and scan the crowd. “I’ll need six more sets of partners.”

Nervous eyes dart around, and no one volunteers.

Oh, they’re not so brave now.

“Come on.” I motion to the man who spoke. “Do you have a mate?”

“I do.” He reluctantly comes forward with a woman at his side. Both have red hair—something we don’t see very often in my realm.

As more pairs walk closer, I’m struck by the physical differences of the people here compared to my home. Of course, I do see all shades of skin and hair, but there are hardly any blonds. If we were in my palace, light hair is what I would see most.

It’s just evidence of how deep our rivalry runs. How far we are from real peace.

What if something good could come from the plague? The Day Realm lost almost all their females, and there’s no shortage of women here. Maybe it happened so the realms would have to work together. Get along. Join forces instead of fighting.

Keryth and I are proof you can find your soul mate somewhere far from home.

I’m excited, because maybe I can make sense of the awful tragedy.