THE STAKES ARE HIGHER THAN EVER BEFORE...To Aria’s utter surprise, Asher turns out to be Prince Asterope, crown prince of the Empire—and this powerful new ally of hers is making it clear that he wants to be something more! Things are starting to look up for Aria as she makes her first grand entrance into high society with an admirer of royal background and a soon-to-be marchioness at her side…That is, until Lady Isys spots her and Asher’s secret rendezvous, prompting Mielle to make a rash decision— one with deadly consequences.