In a land of magic on the brink of war, three stories are fated to meet.
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Lilac is being forced into a marriage she never wanted, for the benefit of her kingdom.
Lily is trapped in a life of servitude and endless poverty after her mother dies...
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Today was the day.
Our plans were set, our resolve was firm, and I was ready for what we were to face.
I hardly slept at all last night, although if it was because of anxiety or adrenaline, I didn't know. I suspected it was both.
"You're up early." Evander murmured, appearing from the ladder that led to the small attic room. Him, Caleb, and Simon had bunked down in that room, while Lilac, Yuna, and I had slept in Calluna's room.
I smiled in a sleepy, anxious way, "I couldn't sleep much."
Evander returned my smile, "Neither could I."
I cradled the cup of tea I had made, relishing in its warmth, and Evander watched me for a moment.
What was he thinking?
"So..." I gave him a cheeky grin, "Magic, huh?"
Evander rolled his eyes, then moved forward and unabashedly wrapped his arms around my waist, drawing me into his warmth.
"I hope you understand why I kept it a secret." He said, brushing a strand of my hair out of my face.
I nodded, "You have your reasons."
"If the kingdom knew... if my father knew..." he shook his head, "Both I and my mother would be disowned."
I frowned, "What do you mean?"
He looked surprised by my question, "Lily... you do know that magic has never run in my family?"
Then how did he end up with magic?
Oh...
He must've seen the realization in my face, "If anyone found out in the court, my mother would be disgraced. And my father would be a laughingstock."
I smoothed my hands over his shoulders, "Well, it doesn't matter to me."
His smile was tender.
"You know... you haven't kissed me since that night at the gala."
I inhaled sharply, "I... You..." Evander began to chuckle at my loss of words.
He was teasing me.
I smacked his shoulder, "That isn't very nice, you know."
Still laughing, he leaned in and gave me a sweet, tender kiss that left me breathless. No guards to disturb us this time, which made my heart flutter for more.
