As a princess, Charlotte Anderton has always been taught to be seen, and not heard. She is expected to be timid, and lady-like. And at 21 years of age, her parents want her to get married to a noble prince. Strong, smart and confident, she refuses to conform to expectations, and wishes to meet a prince who accepts her for who she is - a little rugged, but capable.
Phineas Hastings is the heir to his father's throne, but isn't fond of the responsibilities of being a prince. Notoriously known to break age-old traditions, he has always wished to remain unmarried. However, under the persistence of his mother, he starts to look for a bride. He wants someone different, someone who can rule beside him. His equal. Not another pretty princess who agrees to everything he says, but one who can challenge him.
They meet because they are forced to get acquainted. Neither one too keen about the situation. What happens when they find out that they are what the other needs? Read on to find out if they come out on top, or if they are swept away by royal expectations.
"Are you sure you're one of the girls? You seem like a spy to me. Are you spy, Arabella?" My name rolled of his tongue perfectly and I stood completely still as he took another step closer to me.
"You know, it's my job to eliminate spies."
"Eliminate me huh? I'd like to see you try." I was surprised by my response, just as much as he was, and he raised one of his perfectly shaped eyebrows at me.
"Is that a challenge? I like a challenge."
***
I never wanted any of the lives set out for me. Unfortunately in the new world where the monarchy has taken over, there was never a choice for a girl like me.
At 18, I'm forced to leave the academy. It's a horrible place where young girls are groomed to become the perfect wives, and yet it's the only home I've ever know .
Now I'll either become a human incubator, breeding children for the kingdom, or sold at auction to a man who would make me his wife and slave.
Little did I know I would become a chosen one. Forced to compete in the coming-of-age competition to win the heart of the Prince and the crown.
All were terrible fates, but only one included him.
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- completed
- Mature sexual content
Cover credits go to Devilishwritings