Ominis always knew his marriage was never in his control. There are many things that aren't in his control: he is a Gaunt, and he has long since accepted the fact that he is sometimes (always) helpless to his name. But what makes this worse-what makes this whole thing worse-is that she is not a stranger, not some girl pruned and picked for this purpose. She is Ominis' friend. His best friend, who he's loved from the start. It shouldn't have been like this at all. And if it takes the destruction of his family to free her-to free them both-then he is willing and able to do whatever it takes.