Too late Princess Kate of Elarion was the firstborn heir, but after her mother’s mysterious death, she was erased from the palace, abandoned by fate while her half sister, took her place. She endured all the pain in silence because she knew the truth: her mother was murdered, and justice was the only thing keeping her alive. Kate grew up in the shadows, holding on to one thing: a prophecy that said a prince would come to protect her.That prince was Caius of Valtheris.  Armed with only the knowledge of a birthmark, Caius arrives and immediately swears his life to Princess Lyra- Kate’s half-sister — after seeing the mark on her neck. For years, he protects Lyra with his life while treating Kate with cold indifference.What Caius doesn’t know is that the true mark is hidden on Kate’s chest. And what Kate doesn’t know is that Caius is the man she’s been waiting for.When a former maid returns with evidence that Queen Aurelia murdered the first queen, Kate’s fight for justice begins. In the process, Caius discovers his mistake. The girl he abandoned is the one he was destined to protect.But forgiveness doesn’t come easy.  Crowned queen, Kate refuses to give Caius her heart. Instead, she offers him a place at her side as her royal guard — a daily penance for his failure.  Five years later, when the council demands an heir or Kate’s abdication, Caius and Kate are forced into one final duty… one night that could either destroy them or heal them.