A Curse of Blood and Thorns

By Alexandra Noble

Bound to a life of solitude in Solandis' castle, Rowan St. Clair years for freedom and the chance to discover what lies beyond her prison walls. On the night of her nineteenth birthday, she accidentally triggers a death curse and gets more than she bargained for.

Thrust into a world filled with danger and secrets, Rowan must l

• Language: English
• Publisher: Alexandra Noble
• Release date: Nov 10, 2023
• ISBN: 9798868990175

Book preview

A Curse of Blood and Thorns

Alexandra Noble

This book is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places, and incidents are the product of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously. Any resemblance to actual events, locales, or persons, living or dead, is coincidental.

Copyright © 2023 by Alexandra Noble. All rights reserved, including the right to reproduce, distribute, or transmit in any form or by any means.

Published by Alexandra Noble.

Cover art by The Cover Collection

A Curse of Blood and Thorns is a fairytale retelling of Sleeping Beauty. It is a fantasy novel (romantasy, if you will) that involves a coming-of-age story for our heroine as she discovers the alluring world of the Fae and her place in the world. There are romantic elements in this novel as well as mention of past trauma, including death and torture, and the threat of harm to several characters. While this story has a satisfying conclusion, it is not a standalone. This is the introduction to the Bound by Fate universe. If you love fairytales and charming Fae kings, this book is for you. Enjoy!

Contents

Chapter One

Chapter Two

Chapter Three

Chapter Four

Chapter Five

Chapter Six

Chapter Seven

Chapter Eight

Chapter Nine

Chapter Ten

Chapter Eleven

Chapter Twelve

Chapter Thirteen

Chapter Fourteen

Chapter Fifteen

Chapter Sixteen

Chapter Seventeen

Chapter Eighteen

Chapter Nineteen

Chapter Twenty

Chapter Twenty-One

Chapter Twenty-Two

Chapter Twenty-Three

Chapter Twenty-Four

Chapter Twenty-Five

Chapter Twenty-Six

Chapter Twenty-Seven

Chapter Twenty-Eight

Chapter Twenty-Nine

Chapter Thirty

Chapter Thirty-One

Chapter Thirty-Two

Chapter Thirty-Three

Chapter Thirty-Four

Chapter Thirty-Five

Chapter Thirty-Six

Chapter Thirty-Seven

Chapter Thirty-Eight

Chapter Thirty-Nine

Chapter Forty

This book is dedicated to all the girls who read fantasy to escape the real world, and the women who still believe in fairytales.

CHAPTER ONE

I watched the sun rise over the sleeping village, watching the orange and red hues dance on the cobblestones below me before I escaped through the window. Placing my foot into the hollowed-out grooves in the stone wall, I made my way down to the empty courtyard below.

I leaped away from the wall when I was only a few feet away from the prickled shrubbery. Landing in a crouch, I parted the greenery carefully and scanned the area for any signs of activity. I hoped the guards were following their usual routine so that I could slip across unnoticed and meet up with Rhyland. The morning was still young, and most people were sleeping while the kitchen staff was busy making breakfast.

Movement on the tower walk caught my attention, and I flattened myself against the castle wall. I counted backwards in my head as the guards rotated their position. The success of my plan hinged on the timing, which I had down to the last second. I had become so skilled in my morning routine that I missed the days when it was more difficult. It felt effortless at this point.

Right on schedule, the guards turned on their booted heels and looked towards the village beyond our gated walls. I sprang up and scurried around the corner, running towards the livery in the distance. As the side door opened, I immediately ducked inside, and Rhyland secured the creaky door with the metal handle.

Good morning, I said with a laugh, feeling exhilarated.

Rhyland scowled down at me with his muscular arms crossed over his chest. One of these days, your father is going to have both our hides.

Rhyland was very serious about his role as Captain of the Guard. The reason he ended up as my unwilling accomplice during my schemes. He was also my best friend, which made it easier because he understood the significance of these morning rides. The need to break away from the dullness of my life. He knew it was pointless to try to talk me out of my recklessness, so he joined me instead.

My monotonous life became bearable during my walk around the grounds. Although Rhyland wouldn't let me travel alone and unguarded, I secretly believed he was having just as much fun as I was, even if he concealed it behind his duty as my guard. I couldn't bring myself to expose his lie because I cared for him too much. He rode with me for the same reason I risked my father's anger: to experience freedom, even if only for a moment.

Father would have to catch me first. I breezed around him, nudging his shoulder with my own. He grunted, his preferred mode of communication, and followed me to the horses that he had readied before sunrise.

I took an apple from a barrel and gave it to Lady, my sable-colored mare. She let out a soft whinny upon seeing me, but I think she was more interested in the treats than my presence.

There’s my girl. She ate the apple from my open palm while I stroked her gleaming coat. Have you been on your best behavior? I hope you've stopped nipping the groomers. She blew and shook her head, giving a stomp of her foot for good measure. I nuzzled into her neck, and she nudged me with her head. Her own version of affection.

Rhyland snorted as he brought his stallion over to stand beside us. The she-devil would be better suited to the name Rebel.

I gasped and immediately shielded Lady's ears with my hands. Take that back. Lady is an angel. Then bent to plant a kiss on her snout. Just like her mother.

Keep telling yourself that, Roe, Rhyland said dryly.

Pitching my voice for Rhyland to hear, I whispered to Lady, He's one to talk. Like Chester is any more dignified than you. He accidentally sired more than half the new colts born this spring.

In one swift motion, Rhyland swung onto Chester's back. He is only carrying out his responsibility. He gave the horse an affectionate pat.

Duty, I sneered, running my hand along Lady's side as I prepared to climb up. That's the sole focus of everyone within these walls.

Delivering what is expected is important, Rhyland said in a soft voice.

Happiness and freedom come from having the power to make our own choices.

His eyes met mine, and a small smile curved his lips. How about we table this debate and abandon our duties for a while?

I grinned and quickly pulled the hood of my cloak over my head before urging Lady forward with a kick of my heels. Rhyland clicked his tongue, and Chester fell into step beside me. We trotted out of the livery and made our way to the back of the castle, where we escaped through the back gate and into the open field adjacent to the keep.

Inhaling the fresh spring air, my lungs filled with the scent of wildflowers. A faint trace of salt lingered in the air, wafting from the Esmeray Sea that bordered our territory. On the beach further down, a small fishing village's shadowy outline stood out against the shore. The wind gently rustled the vibrant green grass and colorful patches of flowers surrounding us.

I was always left in awe by the breathtaking beauty of Solandis. As my mother always said, these lands were undoubtedly blessed by the Maker himself.

A smile spread across my face as I leaned forward in the saddle. Let's fly, I said, giving Lady a nudge. I glanced over my shoulder and sent Rhyland a teasing smile. Shall we have a competition and see who reaches the beach first?

He looked past me at the distant shore, showing no interest, before flicking the reins. Rhyland laughed when Chester zoomed by me, leaving me in shock.

That’s cheating! My words were lost in the wind as Lady gave chase.

You’re just a sore loser, he taunted.

That was painful. Losing was my least favorite thing to do.

Ever.

I leaned forward to stay in my seat as we flew through the field. I couldn't hold back the laughter that escaped me. My hood flew backward, and the cloak fluttered behind me like wings. Wisps of hair floated around my face as the braid loosened and failed to hold my curls in place.

This moment made me feel alive and freer than ever before. The release from the responsibilities and strict rules that controlled my life gave me hope. That perhaps there could be more for me outside this gilded prison. I loved my family and my people, but I needed to fill the void in my chest. I needed to find a crucial part of myself to feel whole.

Rhyland and I were evenly matched as we neared the beach. As we moved, the wind behind us rushed through the tall grass and lifted my cloak. I was shivering but the thrill of the race pushed me to go faster.

Looking over at Rhyland, I saw him intently focused with a furrowed brow as he leaned over Chester. He straightened a little in his seat, signaling what would happen next. We reached the edge, where the rocky cliff turned into sand, and Rhyland slowed while I surged ahead to claim the victory.

I scowled and pulled the reins, causing Lady to turn sideways towards him, making sure he felt the full force of my anger. It annoys me when you do that.

If I didn't let you win, you would never stop talking about it.

"I would rather you didn't let me do anything. It takes the fun out of beating you. I narrowed my eyes in a glare that lacked any real heat. Do you think me incapable?"

He snorted as the morning sun started to beat down on us, wiping his brow. Capable doesn't even begin to describe it, trust me. You have a remarkable ability to excel at every task you set your mind to, Rowan. Consider this your birthday gift.

I inhaled sharply, and then looked at the waves crashing against the rugged shore in the distance. The monotony of my days made forgetting my own birthday easy.

Rhyland barked a laugh. Don’t tell me you forgot?

The teasing tone he used made my neck feel hot. Just so you know, I didn't forget. It briefly slipped my mind because I have been preoccupied with other things.

He cocked an eyebrow. What things?

I nervously chewed my lip and looked away.

Rhyland heaved a sigh and said, Rowan, what have you done? The man had an uncanny ability to read me like an open book.

I twisted in my saddle and gave him a stubborn look. There is something that I need to tell you, but I don't want to worry you.

With a tight hold on the reins, he crossed his arms and leaned forward. Impossible. You can't hide anything from me since I'm privy to all your secrets.

All true, I said. Until recently.

His eyes flickered.

I quickly added, I paid one of the younger guards to send a letter for me the day after Yule.

You did what? He clipped and ignored my heated glare. Would you care to explain the contents of this letter and why it had to remain secret?

It was an inquiry to Vespar. About a position as a healer’s apprentice. I clamped my mouth shut and waited for what was to come.

Three.

Two.

One.

I ticked off the seconds in my head, waiting for the short fuse of his temper to flare.

Are you mad? Rhyland exploded.

And there it was.

He leaned further in his saddle to catch my eye. You must keep this between us, don't tell anyone. Not today, Roe, he said as panic flashed across his face before his usual mask shuttered his emotions.

His objection gave me pause.

Inhaling unsteadily, my chest constricted. It felt heavy, as though a stone had settled on it. If not today, Rhyland, then when? The future doesn't wait for anyone, and mine had been stalled for too long.

Tomorrow, he replied without hesitation.

As I held his gaze, I became increasingly frustrated by the mask he wore, and eventually looked away as my emotions boiled over. Your answer is always tomorrow. Do you know how exhausting it is to constantly be dismissed? This is important to me. I felt like I was fighting a battle that was already lost.

I was determined to do something of significance by helping those in need. That translated to a desire to become a healer and move to Vespar. It required training outside of our kingdom. In neutral territory.

Vespar was a haven. A place of refuge where skilled healers were available to all who sought their aid. The city existed to train in the art of healing, medicinal and magical. It refined the skills that one already possessed.

It also meant I had to leave the safety of my home. Convincing my parents to let me go would be a difficult task. They were a tad protective of my sister and me. Whenever I brought up the topic of leaving home, they managed to steer the conversation in a different direction. I was getting tired of the constant avoidance of discussing the future.

Rhyland watched me with a pleading look in his eyes. I am not dismissing you or your feelings. They are valid, but please delay your talk until tomorrow. I'm not asking for anything else. I promise to personally speak to Stefan on your behalf if you do.

I contemplated his words while gazing at the rocky beach and crystal-clear water. Rhyland always persuaded me to delay discussing these plans with them. While his reasons were logical, my patience had grown thin. Waiting to start living was no longer an option for me. The time had come to discover what lay beyond these walls.

But would one more day really make a difference?

I didn't want to appear too agreeable, so I pretended to contemplate it a little longer. After a deep breath, I swiveled in the saddle to face him. Fine, but you have to swear on your honor that you'll support me when I tell Father I want to become a healer.

He placed his hand over his heart. I give you my word.

His promise lifted the weight off my chest. Thank you.

Chester swayed and stomped his foot as he approached Lady. She mischievously nipped his flank. Rhyland reprimanded Chester and tried to soothe his wounded ego by running a hand down his neck. Don’t start something you cannot hope to win. He looked up, gesturing towards our usual path that wound around the rocky outcropping and followed the outer edge of the field back to the castle. We should start heading back.

Sadness crept back in as I nodded in agreement. A sympathetic expression crossed his face as he guided Chester back towards the keep behind us.

I hesitated, glancing back at the vast sea behind me with a longing gaze. If only I could sail away on a ship and ride the distant waves. To feel the mist of the salty water, inhale it on the breeze as it pushed me away from the shore.

Beyond the palace walls, life awaited me. I was certain of it, but there was no escape for me. I turned to follow Rhyland, feeling resigned, but a strange prickling sensation at the back of my neck made me pause.

I sensed eyes piercing into me, and a tug in my gut made me go in the opposite direction of Rhyland.

As I threw a leg over Lady and dismounted, she protested. Nudging my shoulder with her head and letting out a soft snort that ruffled the hair around my face, as if she could prevent me from leaving.

I mindlessly made my way down the winding slope to the beach, even though my legs wouldn't cooperate. I no longer had control over my body. It felt like I was being controlled by a mysterious force. The gnawing ache in my belly drove me towards the unknown that waited on the sandy shore. I was no longer in control of my body. A puppet being controlled, unable to resist the strange pull.

Rowan, wait! Rhyland shouted at my back. His words were dripping with an unmistakable note of panic. My mouth wouldn't form the words I needed to reassure him, even though I wanted to call out to him.

As I stumbled onto the beach, I became numb to my own feelings.

The rocky sand crunched under my boots while the air flickered like a mirage from one of the desert kingdoms I had read about in Father's library. Colors swirled, a vortex of debris and magic with bits of sand and rock lifting in the air. From within it, a woman appeared, her lithe frame adorned with a cerulean silk gown, its sleeves enveloping her slender shoulders and the bottom swaying in the wind.

Like a siren to a wayward sailor, she called out to me. Her magic entwined with my thoughts and took over. Although she wore a minuscule smile on her face, her gaze was shrewd and sharp. Her raven locks were crowned with rubies and her porcelain skin contrasted sharply with her red lips. Her mouth had a cruel tilt, and her blue eyes, like chips of ice from the Olwen Sea in the North Lands, reflected that same cruelty.

A sweet aroma overwhelmed me, and then a blood red rose appeared in her hand. Twirling the stem between her fingers, she lifted the flower to her nose and breathed in. She kept her eyes on my face as I stared at her without blinking. With a twist of her hand, she offered me the rose.

My world narrowed.

All that mattered to me was accepting her token. Serrated claws of need tore at my insides. The desire to possess what she offered meant more to me than my next breath.

My fingertips twitched at my sides as I took a teetering step. A haze clouded my mind, and doubt pierced through. Despite my efforts, my feet continued moving forward, boots sliding through the sand as I reached out to grasp the exquisite beauty before me. Something so priceless. The intense need transformed into unbearable pain.

With a whimper, I folded into myself and staggered forward. The momentary pause had lifted the haze in my mind and now I was in conflict between fear and the intense urge within me.

This is how I imagined death would feel. Struggling against the inevitable.

Come, child. I can take the pain from you if you let me. It was as if she had peeled the layers of my soul apart and peered inside. I can free you from your bonds if you simply accept this token. Her voice was husky and seductive, and I found myself captivated with each word she spoke.

I stumbled to a stop, my hand stretching out to grab the thorny stem.

Fingers dug into my arm and pulled me away, throwing me onto the sand in an ungraceful heap. Breaking out of my trance, I gasped for air and stared up at Rhyland's back as he confronted the woman with a sword. His chest rumbled with a dangerous growl, a sound I had never heard before.

You can’t have her, he snarled, the tip of his sword angled toward her delicate throat.

Maeve peered at him with slitted eyes. Brave of you, my princeling, but fate cannot be altered.

I wiped my shaking hands on my breeches to calm my frayed nerves. The compulsion and pain may have disappeared, but I felt drained of energy and disoriented.

Maeve smelled the rose once more and grinned to herself. Her eyes opened suddenly and met mine. Rowan, please say hello to Stefan for me and let Tamsin know I'm going to destroy all the things she loves.

Climbing to my feet, I sucked in a breath and locked my knees to stay steady. My mind spinning with the realization that she knew my parents, but I managed to stay on my feet. The more important question is: what did she want from me?

Rhyland shifted in front of me, his shoulders tense and sword held ready to defend. Genuine fear coursed through me as I pressed closer to his back.

Maeve raised her palms to the sky, and the air crackled with static. Magic sparked around us as the swirling vortex tore open the blue sky. She looked at me with a piercing stare. May your heart's desire be fulfilled this year.

Her words caused a heavy feeling to form in the pit of my stomach. A terrifying thought crossed my mind that she might know my deepest darkest secrets and use them against me.

Before the swirling wind swallowed her and the portal vanished, she blew Rhyland a mocking kiss.

The moment she was out of sight, Rhyland whirled. Startled, I jerked as he grabbed my arms and pressed our foreheads together. Please say you didn't take anything she offered. His voice was deep and abrasive, rooted in fear.

I shook my head, unable to communicate the tangled thoughts running through my mind. Rhyland's response didn't make things any better. Although he had the emotional range of a rock, I knew he cared for me because he showed me through small gestures like a pat on the shoulder or a sarcastic comment. His way of showing affection was unique to him, and our almost hug made me nervous, amplifying my own fear.

Say something, Roe, he begged. Put me out of my misery and just tell me. He clutched me tight, his grip on me bruising.

I forced myself to swallow despite the lump in my throat. I didn’t take anything from her, nor did I have the chance to speak to her. My eyes roved over his face, that blasted mask of his slipping over his skin. Rhyland, who was she and how did she know my family?

Instead of answering my questions, he held my hand and quickly led me up the embankment. It's urgent that I speak to Stefan right away. He tugged on my hand to urge me along the path faster. We are too exposed out here.

My eyes were fixed on his back, knowing that I was no longer with my friend but my guard. My safety his only priority. This Rhyland barked orders and expected to be obeyed.

It didn't appeal to me at all.

That's why I kept being Rowan. The person who defied orders and asked questions.

That's all? You’re not going to explain what happened back there?

There's no time. Frustration bled into his words. Preparations for tonight's party are already underway and it would take at least half a day to explain.

I had almost completely forgotten about the party. Our birthday was celebrated every year with a small gathering hosted by Father and Mother, which typically included the palace staff and the guard. Our walls were seldom breached by outsiders, and if they were, they had been vetted to the point of insanity. The night consisted of dancing, as well as consuming too much food and drink. A reason to dress up and pretend. That we lived a normal life and were not separated from the rest of the kingdom.

Without warning, Rhyland pulled me in front of him and hefted me up in the saddle. I let out a yelp of surprise and grabbed onto the saddle horn to avoid falling off the other side. He kept a firm grip on my leg until I regained my balance.

I looked down at him. A range of emotions swirled in his eyes, the most prominent being fear, until he shuttered his gaze with the stony mask he wore as a shield.

What happened must not be spoken of to anyone, Rowan, he demanded. Not even Sage.

He knew me so well.

I had planned to tell her right away, but it appeared that my plans had changed. Do you really expect me to keep her in the dark? There are no secrets between us.

His jaw tightened. Sage will be troubled by this and won't rest until she has all the answers. I don't want her to feel anxious on her birthday.

I understand now. The corner of my mouth quirked up. That’s a gift reserved for me this year.

That’s not what I meant, Roe, and you know it. His shoulders slumped on a sigh almost as if he carried a heavy burden. Your parents will want to have a conversation with both of you. Maeve's motives should be explained by them.

I didn’t think there were secrets between us, Rhyland, I whispered. His duty took precedence over our friendship, and he chose not to share something vital, which was painful for me.

The situation with Maeve is complicated. Pain flared in his eyes, something deeper than my words stirring this emotion. Don’t ask of me what I cannot give you, Rowan. His words were quiet, remorseful. It's important that you trust me. As your guard and friend. All my actions are intended to keep you and your sister safe.

My hurt and anger were punctured by his words, leaving me deflated. I trust you.

He held my stare briefly before mounting Chester, relief evident in his eyes. Ride hard. Being out in the open with Maeve this close makes me uneasy.

The race across the field of wildflowers lacked its usual warmth and comradery this time. My freedom snatched from me once again and I was held captive to mysteries beyond my grasp.

I gazed up at the stone walls that towered above us, waiting to trap us. I knew with absolute certainty that I would face Maeve again, and my stomach twisted with dread.

CHAPTER TWO

Pushing open the heavy oak doors, Rhyland stormed inside the palace a few steps ahead of me, his face thunderous and his stride purposeful. He headed towards the throne room, where my parents were occupied with completing the final preparations for tonight's party. The air was filled with the sweet smell of flowers as staff hurried through the halls with decorations in tow.

Rowan, wait!

I swiveled around and noticed my twin sister, Sage, bounding down the stone steps that clung to the side of the grand hall. With her strawberry blonde hair loose and falling down her back, she bounced towards me.

Her infectious grin made me smile.

We were like the warring seasons, Sage and I, as different as a warm, summer’s day and a cold, wintry night. She was the sunshine to my darker edges.

Sage was warm and bubbly, preferring to listen before responding, while I had a bit of a reckless streak and was unafraid to speak my mind. To my disappointment, she inherited our mother's petite stature and hair while I, on the other hand, inherited our father's unruly, golden blonde hair and stood a few inches taller with my willowy frame. The only thing we had in common was our matching blue green eyes.

Simply put, she was my favorite person in all the realms. We both would do anything for each other.

Grasping my hands, she stopped in front of me, still beaming. Then her gaze wandered over my shoulder as a blush marred her freckled face.

I followed her gaze and saw Rhyland standing frozen like a stone figurine on the wall, his eyes locked on Sage and a smile curling the edges of his mouth.

The silence between us grew, and I found myself looking back and forth between the two. They gazed at each other like doe-eyed lovers. I waited for another moment before clearing my throat loudly to get their attention.

Rhyland's eyes flicked to me in annoyance, but he quickly gentled his expression and turned back to my sister. Good morning, Sage. I hope you had a restful night.

Sage twirled her hair and blushed, glancing down at her feet. I slept really well.

Rhyland’s face glowed with warmth as he stared at her ducked head. These moments had the tendency to drag on because they struggled to communicate their feelings which left me as their mediator.

I believe you had some important matters to attend to, Rhyland? I raised a questioning eyebrow.

His gaze flickered to the throne room and then back to us, giving Sage another gentle look. Right, he said. Happy Birthday, princess.

Sage lifted her head, her entire face lighting up. Thanks, Rhyland.

He offered her a soft smile and then turned and flicked me on the nose. I gasped in outrage, but he turned on his heel and marched away before I could retaliate.

As he was walking away, Sage pinched my arm. Rowan, that was impolite.

I soothed the offended spot with a rub of my hand. What’s rude is the way both of you keep dancing around each other without taking any action. It's clear you both care for each other.

Roe, that's cruel, Sage said softly, a pained expression on her face. You know we can never act on our feelings.

I cringed at my own stupidity. I’m sorry. I always seem to forget the detail of your…

Betrothal, she finished on a sigh.

I intertwined our hands and gave her fingers a gentle squeeze. I won't hesitate to fight for you. It is unfair for anyone to be bound by an oath made in infancy. It's not right for father to assume that you will go through with it.

He did it in the best interest of our kingdom. I just don't want to, she paused and looked away, what I mean to say is… She trailed off, biting her lip as she stared at the ground.

Disappoint our parents? I offered.

She glanced at me and gave a faint nod.

I gave her hands another squeeze. I'll disappoint them instead. They expect it from me, at least. She let out a laugh, indicating that my plan to distract her was successful.

I don’t want to focus on heavy things today, she announced. Then turned and dragged me toward the stairs. "Mother had the most splendid gowns created for us and I can't wait for you to see them.

I scrunched up my nose. I didn't find gowns as exciting as Sage did. I favored weapons and animals over glitz and glamour.

Sage linked her arm with mine and led me to our room. Father left you a gift as well. One much more your style too. She pushed open the door and flounced inside. Then relinquished her hold on me and skipped over to her canopy bed. Once there, she picked up the blush pink dress that was neatly spread out and draped it over herself. The tulle cascaded down to the floor in layers, while its sleeves delicately clung to the bodice, leaving the shoulders exposed.

It's beautiful, I conceded. Mother outdid herself this year with the design and use of the delicate material.

She spun with the dress as if it were her dance partner. Isn’t it though? She nervously chewed on her lip. Do you think Rhyland will like it?

I think you’re going to sweep him off his feet. I pretended to swoon, one hand splayed across my forehead and the other over my heart.

Stop it. Sage swatted at me laughing. Her happiness transformed into a sorrowful grin. We are nothing more than a dream, Rhyland and me. One that seeps into the waking hours. She reverently placed her gown back on the bed and then looked at me expectantly. Speaking of dreams…

Groaning, I threw myself backward and found myself in a pile of purple tulle.

Rowan, Sage said sharply. The thought of me ruining my gown sparked her inner fire.

I turned to the side and buried my head in my pillows. I have no desire to discuss dreams with you.

Sage threw herself down next to me and scooted until her head lay next to mine. We laid there in silence until she couldn't take the suspense any longer. You dreamed of him again? She prodded me with a hopeful tone in her voice.

Sage, don't get worked up over a product of my imagination.

How do you know he isn’t real? She retorted.

I lifted my arm to glance at her. Because he exists inside my head. My eyes closed and images assailed me.

Of moonlit dances and eyes that gleamed as bright as the stars above.

Since winter solstice, I've dreamed of a dark forest glen where I meet a stranger and share a dance with him. I could only recall bits and pieces of the dream and never caught a glimpse of the man's face.

It wasn't until a few weeks ago when my dream changed, and I saw him for the first time. His beauty took my breath away. Silver-eyed, with chiseled features and golden skin. He would come to me in the stolen moments before the dawn to share our dance. It was the reason I always woke before the sun crested over the horizon. Sleep evaded me after the illusion was shattered.

Sage continuously brought up the idea that my mysterious stranger could be a sign of fate and kept asking me about it. I couldn't bear to shatter her romantic fantasies. The stray thought gave me pause, and I furrowed my brow.

Since when have I considered the captivating man mine?

I didn’t even know his name.

But even though I’d never heard his voice, I often imagined what it would sound like whispering to me in the dark. Maybe deep and abrasive like his intimidating presence. Or soft and enchanting like his eyes.

If Sage were right, fate would be a cruel mistress indeed.

I made a face in reaction to the word. Fate. Loathing the thought of my future being preordained. Written in the stars long before my existence and out of my control.

When I didn't respond, Sage nudged me. Did he speak to you this time?

Can we talk about something else? I whined, craving a change of topic.

We were enveloped by a loaded silence, and I relished in the short break, knowing Sage would only hold back for a minute at most before asking more questions.

I rolled onto my side and looked at her. Blue eyes shining with excitement. Why do you care so much about this? Her excitement dimmed and shadows danced in her eyes, and I immediately regretted my question.

One of us deserves to live the life we've dreamed of, she murmured in a low voice.

Her words pelted me like physical blows.

I'm planning to talk to Father about traveling to Vespar to learn about healing, I blurted out. Anything to ease the haunted look on her face.

Once again, her face lit up with a beaming smile as she gazed at me. She clutched my hand to her chest. That's truly wonderful.

I made a promise to Rhyland that I would discuss it with Father tomorrow. Maybe we can disappoint him together?

I wish it were that easy, she murmured.

A gentle tapping rattled the door and then Mother bustled in cradling a gigantic bundle of vibrant flowers. The bouquet bursting with color and filled with our favorite flowers. Lavender lisanthus and the shocking blue of delphinium. Hot pink peonies and flaming poppies. Violet pieces of hyacinth and light pink tulips were used to complement and tie the assortment of flowers together.

Sage let out a squeal and sprang from the bed. Did these come from our garden?

Of course, darling. She pecked Sage on the cheek and passed the bouquet to her. Sage buried her face in the petals, taking a deep breath as her mouth curved into a gentle smile.

Sage inherited Mother's green thumb, and the two of them dedicated their spare time to maintaining the garden within the keep. They had the ability to make anything grow but left me to my own devices because I didn't have the patience or talent to be of much help.

Mother circled the bed to peer down at me, head tilting in observation as she carefully assessed me.

Her piercing blue eyes had me fidgeting, feeling as though she could see into my thoughts. It was a struggle to keep things hidden from her. As skilled as a hunting hound pursuing a rabbit, she could uncover a lie effortlessly, and because of that, among other reasons, I confided in her everything except my daily excursions outside the castle. She would disapprove of that extracurricular activity.

The three of us had a special bond. Inside these walls, Mother treated us as equals and did her best to cultivate our interests.

She gently combed her fingers through my hair. What have you gotten yourself into this morning?

I don’t know what you mean. I peeked over her shoulder and shot Sage a wide-eyed look, but she only smirked and refused to offer any aid. I gave her a warning look and she hid her laughter in the flowers.

Mother affectionately patted my cheek. Darling, remember the person you're talking to. When I mimed zipping my lips, her eyes sparkled. Fine. Keep your secrets. It'll be more enjoyable when I unravel the truth from you.

With a dreamy sigh, Sage blurted out, She dreamed of him again, then quickly covered her mouth as if she hadn't meant to say the words.

Sage, I hissed angrily.

With a sheepish smile, she shrugged. Mother is already aware of Mr. Tall, Dark, and Dreamy.

Rowan, Mother scolded, directing the conversation towards a familiar topic.

I sat up, raising my hands as I smoothly rolled to the other side of the bed and stood up. I'm sorry, but I already know what you're going to say - meditation is not happening today.

Mother was a firm believer in the art of meditation. I found it dull and took every chance to avoid it.

She gave me a look filled with meaning. As long as you realize the significance of dreams.

Omens. Premonitions. The innermost yearnings of the heart. Everything had been said already. She insisted that I meditate on these dreams, forging a mental connection with my subconscious or something along those lines. The only thing that came to me during those moments of quiet reflection were memories of a dance I shared with a man I had created in my own imagination. Too perfect to be real.

I could shut my eyes and summon silver eyes that seemed to peer into the depths of my soul. That seemed to know me better than I knew myself. They could easily become my lifeline, which is why I decided it time to stop meditating for my own good. To let go of these childish ideas.

There would be no hero to free me from this cage.

Moreover, I didn't need one. I was more than capable of saving myself. In a moment of weakness, I might relish the thought of my dream man being real and waiting for me to come find him. In fact, maybe he was the one who needed to be saved.

I couldn't help but smile at the impish thought.

Rowan! Sage poked me in the side and snapped me from my daydreaming.

What? I huffed.

She smirked with a knowing look, and I couldn't help but roll my eyes at her cheekiness, sneaking a glance at Mother. Her features twisted in fear before she could mask it with a smile.

I carefully observed her, but she avoided my probing gaze and hastily retreated towards the door.

Come, my girls. Let's make our way to the bathing chamber. This is a special night. If we want to be on time, we need to start getting ready now. You know your father can't stand tardiness, and a —

Lady never keeps her guests waiting, Sage quipped.

What if you’re not a lady? I said under my breath.

Sage pinched me again and I lunged to retaliate as Mother sighed at our usual antics. She stepped to the side as Sage bolted through the open door, skirts hiked up around her knees as she ran.

I chased after her, laughing as we ran down the hallway. She was slightly ahead of me as we turned the corner, so I pushed off the stone wall to catch up. I halted abruptly as Sage bounced off Rhyland's chest with a grunt.