MALIK looked at me for a long time.
“I can relate, you know. I was the same. Nine days ago, I was so sure that I only wanted to fool around. Nine days ago, I was determined not to let anybody else in my life. Nine days ago, I did not give a damn about who shows up in the Castle and present herself as the future Empress. Nine days ago, I did not believe that I could be drawn to someone as much as I am drawn to you now. But like I said, that was nine days ago… before I met you. I do like your determination. In fact, I was just as determined as you are, Catherine. But you see, no matter how determined a man is, once fate decides to play with you and surprise you, your plans will change whether you like it or not, the way mine changed.”
“My plans will not change, Malik. Because I would neve
