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She frowns as if frustrated I don’t understand. “Do not hate me because I’m efficient. And take comfort in the fact that fewer people will die if we do things my way. Surely you agree that a handful of casualties is better than a bloody war?”

“Do you hear yourself?”

“Let’s return to this conversation in a few months when I’m seated on my family’s throne, ruling Caldenbauer as its queen. The kingdom will prosper, Henrik. You’ll see.”

I stare at her back as she continues walking, vowing to myself that I will do everything in my power to make sure her plans never come to fruition.

12

CLOVER

I stare out the window of a high tower, looking at the greening meadows that stretch beyond the city's walls. Winter has come and gone, and spring has arrived with gentle rain and windy days.

The change of the seasons has made the wedding feel imminent, and my hope is slowly dying.

I press my forehead against the cool glass and close my eyes.

“Clover,” Lawrence says from behind me. “What are you doing up here?”

“You found me.”

He sets his hand on my shoulder, rubbing gently. “Were you hiding from me?”

“No. Yes.” With a sigh, I push away from the window and turn toward the king. “Maybe. I was hiding from everyone.”

“As am I.”

My eyes move past him. “You’ve lost your knights.”

“For now.” His honey eyes search mine, and he frowns. Softly, he says, “Talk to me, Clover. Tell me what’s troubling you.”

“I don’t know if Henrik is going to return in time,” I whisper.

Lawrence purses his lips, looking like he needs to tell me something but doesn’t want to.

“What is it?” I ask reluctantly.

“He’s sent a message.”

Standing straighter, I clasp his arm. “Henrik?”

Lawrence nods. “Through one of Audra’s men.”

“For me?”

After studying me for a second, Lawrence slowly shakes his head.

I look down, feeling foolish for getting my hopes up. “What did he say?”

“Camellia has killed Augmirian. She’s seized control of the dukedom.”

My eyes fly to his. “Are you serious?”

Lawrence nods solemnly. “I’m afraid so. She’s controlling the nobility through the necklaces.”

“We knew she was going to,” I whisper.

“We did. They haven’t found a way to free Brielle yet, so Henrik remains by Camellia’s side.”