That’s true. I never want to hurt Leland. I wanted to uncover the Ashcrofts’ ugliness, while also placing Naseria in capable hands. I can’t solve all the problems in this continent alone. But, it seems Leland and Gen may bring out the worst in both their powers.
Kalise sets the glass on the table and slides her glove back on. “I hope, for your sake, you don’t give me reason to cause you harm. It would be a terrible waste of a brilliant mind.”
“Of course not. Now—back to Naseria, the real reason I called for this visit. Your demonstration, however, has been enlightening.” I take a sip of brandy, savoring the warmth.
“What about Naseria?” She narrows her eyes.
“What are your opinions on how the kingdom is run? Do you find anything alarming?”
She drums her gloved fingers on the arm of the chair. “It’s not my place to say. Do I believe you should choose Naseria over Wylan for the railway expansion? Of course. Either way, you will struggle with how these kingdoms treat their miners—and eventually their railway workers.”
This isn’t new information. It’s something I’ve weighed carefully. I’ve purchased as many helachite mines in Wylan and Naseria as I could, and the conditions for both are terrible.
“Will the Ashcrofts allow Leland any influence? That was your purpose in agreeing to this arrangement.”
Kalise looks toward the door and lowers her voice. “The current queen won’t allow any opinion but her own. She treats her grown children like toddlers, and her husband is nothing but a pet. I worry how Leland will fare in that family. My deepest concern is that whenPrincess Genevieve takes power she’ll be a figurehead while her mother retains control.”
It’s what I’ve suspected. Once, when we were younger, the royal family seemed happier—the queen more relaxed, more willing to hear dissenting views. That’s changed since I returned. One thing is clear: Gen will ruin herself without my lifting a finger.
22
Genevieve
The cold rain beats against the carriage window as I look out at the passing townspeople hurrying through the deluge. If there were any rot left in Covington Park, it’s surely gone now.
The rain has continued for two days, and it’s left me in a desolate mood. Two more flowers greeted me each morning when I awoke, and I assume they’re from Kieran. But between caring for Mari, making final arrangements for the wedding, and working with the constables to uncover who is spreading the rot, I’ve been far too tired at night to notice his late visits.
I also had to sign the marriage contract. I accepted the stipulation that I must marry Prince Leland and invite him to my bed—or relinquish the match so one of my siblings might take my place. It feels wrong to put our marriage in such stark, unequivocal terms. So binding that I feel stifled at the thought of marrying him.
I’ve needed time and privacy to sort through my feelings, and I’ve let myself reflect on what I truly want. I want what’s best for my country.I want to provide stability and peace to both our kingdoms. But most of all, I want a loving partnership. I’ve hoped that Leland and I could reach that point, but I fear we misunderstand each other more than I expected. Yet if I don’t marry him, I’ll be forcing someone else into an arranged marriage.
I’m still hurt by the way he brought up such an intimate matter so publicly, instead of coming to me privately to discuss his concerns. It makes me worry what sort of partnership we’ll have.
Then there’s Kieran. He’s all I think about when I allow my mind to wander. There’s a magnetism growing between us—a fusion of our past and the connection that never died. I know a path with Kieran is impossible.No one would allow it.
The carriage comes to a halt at The Wild Rose, and a footman opens the door for me. Another holds an umbrella over my head as I walk into the blissfully empty shop.
Clementine greets me with a tight hug. “Oh, Genny! I’m so happy you came. I was worried when I read your letter. Is everything alright?”
I step back, placing my gloved hands on her bare arms. “Yes, well, there’s nothing urgent. Mari is healing well. She even took a walk in the gardens today. But I needed my friend.”
“Of course. Come, sit.” She directs me toward two high-backed chairs near the back of the shop. They’re private enough that no one from outside will see I’m here, especially since I told the coachman to park in the alley.
Clemmy brings over a tray of pastries, and I choose one topped with candied cherries. “Now, tell me what’s on your mind.”
I don’t hold back. I came here for a reason; I need to share my heart with someone. Usually that would be Astoria, but she’s observed too much. I need a fresh perspective if I’m to make the right decision.
“I think I may be making a mistake by marrying Leland Frostclaw. He’s everything I wanted in an alliance, and he’s a suitable husband, but I fear we’ll never have that spark couples in love carry. I thought I could live without it, but my mind has changed.”
Clemmy studies me carefully between bites of pastry. “But you’ve said yourself that you could never fall in love again—not with your curse preventing true feelings from developing. What changed your mind? Is it nerves about the wedding?”
I bite my lip, then tell her the truth. “Kieran returned.”
She gasps, choking on her pastry. Taking a sip of tea, she stares at me incredulously. “But that’s impossible. He’s dead.”
I shake my head. “He won’t tell me why he stayed away, but he’s taken on a new identity. He’s Morris Blackwell.”
“The helachite businessman? But that’s impossible! He doesn’t even look like Kieran. Maybe a little around the eyes, but Genny, don’t do this. He’s not Kieran. He’s a swindler and a liar. He must have learned about Kieran and is playing you to ruin your chances with Prince Leland.”
