In her mind, she saw an image of a crown on her head, fire in her hand, and panic on the faces of those around her. Images of lightning fracturing the castle in two. She shook her head, but the visions grew more violent and more threatening, and eventually, she had to step away from the instructor once more.

‘May I be excused?’

The man nodded and she headed for her room – nearly running down the hallway. Sapphire fought back her tears as the maidens rushed to undo her dress. She bounced on her toes as she tried not to fall apart.

Even though she was surrounded by handmaidens and the many staff that roamed the castle, she had never felt more alone.

Slamming the washroom door, she sealed herself away from the world and sank into a warm bath, allowing the water to still her mind, the images of the kingdom falling to ruin shrinking away.

Clarity.

She wasn’t surprised when images of red hair and parted lips painted in moonlight flooded her mind instead.

‘Have you heard any more about the Harvest Storm?’ Kaian asked as they walked together in the garden, the setting sun warming their skin.

She shook her head.

He nodded, looking straight ahead. His hands were clasped behind his back and his spine was incredibly upright, a picture of a proper king. Handsome and kind. Patient and understanding. A friend.

A husband that would never know her true love.

‘Do you think we’ll be happy if we never love each other?’ she finally asked. ‘Not in that way, at least.’

He seemed caught off guard but not surprised at her question.

‘Many kings and queens who were … friends and confidants, and nothing else, have reigned successfully. Who knows, never falling in love may be best for the job ahead of us.’

‘For how long is the love of a friend enough to keep you happy? How long before it becomes a bitter taste on our tongues? A cage that we can never escape?’

Guilt flooded her. Guilt at the fact that he would be marrying a monster masquerading in royal flesh. A monster that could call lightning and ignite fire and bend water.

Guilt so heavy it felt like she might choke on every lie she had ever told him.

‘Please, don’t think like tha–’ Kaian started as she sucked in a breath.

‘I’ve been lying to you.’

Kaian stopped, turning on the heel of his leather boot to face her. He reached out for her arm, wrapping his hand around the soft fabric of her dress at her elbow.

‘If we can’t have love, Sapphire, let us have honesty.’

She looked from his hand to his blue eyes – doing what she could to take deep breaths. He had promised her friendship … loyalty. And she believed him.