In a world of power and privilege, love is the ultimate rebellion."
In a society where arranged marriages dictate destiny, love is a dangerous game.
Aiden Baldwin has always honored his family's legacy, bound by duty and expectations-until Karlie Co...
"Out of suffering have emerged the strongest souls. The most massive characters are seared with scars." -Khalil Gibran.
Oops! This image does not follow our content guidelines. To continue publishing, please remove it or upload a different image.
Karlie woke up, and for the first time in a long time, she felt excited.
It was her birthday.
She climbed out of bed and went straight to the shower, letting the warm water wash over her. Afterward, she got dressed and headed down the hall to Amber's room. She knocked, but there was no answer.
Frowning, she checked her sisters' rooms—empty.
She made her way downstairs, and the house was alive with movement. Every staff member was hands-on-deck, preparing the estate for the evening's event.
Walking into the kitchen, she found her mother, her sisters, and Amber—all deep in preparations.
"Good morning, sweetheart," her mother greeted with a warm smile. "How did you sleep?"
"I slept well, Mother. What's going on?"
"We're getting ready for your coming-of-age party. Everyone in town will be here."
Karlie knew turning twenty was an important milestone, but she never anticipated it would be this big.
"Sit and have something to eat, love," her mother continued. "Everything is taken care of."
Karlie settled around the kitchen table, flabbergasted by the effort surrounding her. Her eyes lingered on her family and Amber, all working so hard to ensure her day was perfect.
"Lovey," Amber said, "I have the team ready to do your hair and makeup. And we need you to pick out three dresses."
"Three?" Karlie repeated, astonished.
"Yes," Amber confirmed with a knowing smile. "It'll all make sense later."
Watching them smiling and glowing, Karlie wondered if they were planning a wedding rather than a birthday.
She continued eating, then reached for an assortment of fruits from the table. As she took a bite, last night with Aiden replayed in her mind. A soft blush crept across her cheeks as butterflies filled her stomach.
She couldn't wait to see him later.
When she finished her meal, Amber clapped her hands together. "Ready?"
Karlie sighed playfully. "I guess so."
Amber turned to Emma. "Let the team know she's ready to begin."
"Certainly, my lady," Emma replied.
Karlie was led into a grand dressing room, where an array of stunning gowns awaited her. Amber had them bring as many dresses as possible, giving Karlie full freedom to choose.
