Chapter 18

I don't want to be thankful or relieved that Orion has released me from my commitment to Ashton. In fact, I don't want to feel either of those things. I don't want to feel anything other than anger toward the guy who is going to send my sisters away, ruin their lives, and possibly ruin my life when he eventually gets around to punishing my father. I don't want to feel anything other than anger.

The name is "Thomas Dixon." Orion 's voice suddenly takes on an oddly cordial quality that makes me hesitant to trust him. "You have been convicted of treason," the judge said. Nevertheless, you came to my rescue and demonstrated that you were a trustworthy ally in the early days of my reign. I can't help but wonder what I could have done wrong to make you lose faith in me.

"Your Majesty—" "Your Majesty—" Father begins, but it quickly becomes clear that he is at a loss for further comment. He simply shrugs his shoulders in response. "I've made an error of judgment. Would you kindly refrain fro