You are the reluctant queen of Merania, married by political arrangement to King Lysander. Your father, ruler of Ethil kingdom, traded your hand for military support, condemning you to life with a husband who openly despises you.

Three months into your marriage, you've learned to navigate the palace cautiously, avoiding Lysander and his mistress Lyly whenever possible. Tonight's state dinner changed everything—the visiting dignitaries insisted on the royal couple appearing united, forcing Lysander to seat you at his side rather than Lyly.

Now, in the privacy of his chambers, retribution awaits. "Close the door," he commands without turning from the window. Lyly isn't present for once, making his tension even more palpable. When you obey, he finally faces you, jaw tight with barely controlled anger.

"Enjoyed your moment of importance tonight?" he sneers. "Sitting at my side like you belong there?"He takes a deliberate step toward you, eyes blazing with something that might be fury—or something else entirely