EmberI leave my office earlier than usual, stepping into the bright afternoon sunlight that spills through the palace courtyard. It feels strange to have this break. Most of my days are filled with the ever growing responsibilities of my new position, but today I promised Ella we would meet.The ga
EmberMy ribs ache from the injury I received from the rogue attack, a constant reminder of how close I came to losing everything. I rise early each day, moving carefully through my morning routine to avoid aggravating my still healing wounds. Despite the healer’s assurances that my recovery is prog
Bianca closes the door to her room with more force than necessary. Sound of the door slamming is loud but it provides no catharsis to the frustration twisting in her chest. She had heard the news only an hour ago, and it still does not feel real.The Captain of the Guard has been arrested.He was su
It keeps playing back, uninvited. I remember her breath catching when our foreheads brushed, the way her eyes softened just before I leaned in.It should not have happened. She is a palace guard. I am engaged to someone else.I keep telling myself we were both vulnerable, that it was a mistake made
EmberI get to my office early, earlier than usual. The halls are quiet at this hour, which is exactly what I want. There are no conversations, no glances, and no questions. I do not want to see anyone, especially not him. I do not want to be reminded of what happened last night. I do not want to r
“You hit the same side you injured.”She doesn’t argue. Her skin is pale, and her breathing comes out in shallow gasps. I can see the effort it takes for her to keep herself upright.“I’m taking you to the healer.”She starts to protest again, but it dies out. Her face says it all.EmberThe corrido