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“Like you're doing to me now.” She rose when he rose and crutched his kingly garment. “Please, don't do this to me, Leonidas. I don't want to go.” But even as she pleaded, she saw the unmoving resolve from his eyes. He had made his decision and would not go back on it.

Defeated, Veronica let go of his robe. More tears filled her eyes.

He palmed her cheek. “You are always allowed in the palace. You