Nicole’s POV
As Nathan stretched out his hand for me to take, doubt gnawed at the edges of my resolve. Jake’s offer echoed in my mind, dark and dangerous. If I left with Nathan now, it would undo everything I had been working toward. Jake would never trust me, and that trust was my only leverage. Still, seeing Nathan standing there, his eyes steady and urging me to take his hand, made it almost impossible to say no.
“If I leave with you now,” I said softly, my voice barely carrying over the cold, damp air of the dungeon, “you will only give the council more reason to back Jake. They are already looking for excuses to strip you of the throne.”
Nathan nodded, his jaw tightening. “I know. But the kids need you.” He paused and took my hand in his warm, calloused grip. His eyes softened as
