Page 44 of Bride By Coronation

"Then I'm not doing it, so find a way!"

"I'm telling you the truth. No one can be present unless they're part of The Underworld. Your mom knows nothing about it, so they won't let her be there. And if you tell her anything, they'll kill you and her. Loyalty and secrecy are not negotiable," she warns.

"It's unfair for her to endure this again."

Zara lowers her voice. "I know. And I'm sorry. Maybe you can change the rules once you're the queen."

"How's that going to help my mom?"

Tension buzzes between us over the line.

Zara finally offers, "It won't help your mom. But if you become queen and change the rules, it could help other mothers avoid going through what she will."

I snap, "Gee, thanks. That makes me feel better."

"Fiona—"

"Thanks for ruining my life and hurting my mom," I snarl, then hang up.

I toss my phone on the counter, pace the room, then return to the bedroom. It takes a bit to figure out how to get out of the dress, but I finally do. I put my clothes back on. Then, I return to the living room and repackage the garments.

My phone dings. I pick it up and read the message.

Zara: I hate myself for being the reason you're in this situation.

Me: Then why don't you tell me what was so bad that my own brother had to promise me to a stranger?

Zara: I can't until you're the queen. I know you don't want to keep hearing me say that, but if I tell you, I'm dead. So are you.

"Whatever," I mumble and turn off my phone, not wanting to hear any more excuses. I put my cell down and stare at the huge diamond still on my finger.

My mom will go nuts when she sees this.

It should be hers.

I feel guilty. I glance at the gold box but can't seem to take the ring off. Instead, I go to my desk, sit, and open the drawer. I pull out a piece of paper and reach for a pen in the holder.

For several moments, I think about how to start. Then I realize it doesn't matter. I'll make a different version if I'm not happy with it.

Dear Stranger The Underworld Calls King...

8

Kirill

The Next Morning

Itell the front desk, "Send him up," and glance at my watch.

I'm disappointed and anxious with the amount of time it's taking for Vaughn to return.

It's been too long.

Why isn't he back?

I pick up my phone and text him.

Me: Where are you?

---