Kingdom of Tomorrow (Book of Arden, #1)

by Gena Showalter

Be bold enough to let go of your past so you can grab hold of your future.

There will always be someone who can’t see your worth. That’s a fact of life. Don’t let that someone be you.

I’d never turn down such a precious seed of knowledge. The more we practiced, a.k.a. watered the skill, the stronger it would grow.

“On the other hand, Roman has enough of an advantage already. Plus, High Prince Dolion called me Bubble Gum and Lady Pink, and he expects me to die quick. I’ve got a lot to prove. So. I will destroy him,” I announced, and I wasn’t sure if I was referencing Roman, the HP, or both.

“I knew you were made of determination, drive, and the smarts to thrive!” I really hoped so, because I was tired of being made of failure, fear, and many tears.

He tapped his fingers against the desktop, the muscles in his forearm flexing, and oh, I didn’t like that I noticed.

Damned if we had and damned if we hadn’t. “Both choices can’t be wrong. Sir. High Prince.” I pushed the title through clenched teeth. “Motive is the beating heart of every action,” he said, and I wasn’t sure if it was an explanation or a rebuke. Probably both.

Awe inspiring and wise, but also insane and kind of hot. But only kind of! He wasn’t my type. Not that he was interested in me romantically. Unless he was. But he wasn’t.

“Fear doesn’t forge good leaders, Miss Roosa. It destroys them.”

Words spoken are planted in the garden of your heart to feed your life; choose wisely.

Deep breath in, out. I refused to give in to fear, missing a day of fun I craved with every ounce of my being. “I-I’ll do it. Because I’m brave,” I said, forcing my feet to shuffle forward. One, two, three. “I mean it. I’m brave,” I repeated, quickening my pace. “So, so brave,” Mykal praised, matching my stride.

When you are teachable, you gain understanding, but those who despise instruction lose what understanding they have.

If you do not ask for what you need, how can you receive it?

He leaned against his seat back, slow and deliberate, watching me. The old me would have squirmed under such scrutiny. Today’s me betrayed nothing. Probably nothing. Very little, anyway.

“Let me assure of you one thing, Bubble Gum.” Voice lowering to a rumble, he said, “I crave you. All I require is a chance to prove it.”

thought we discussed the fact that your face hides nothing, Pink.” “Bad face,” I pouted. “Beautiful face,” he corrected, kissing my brow.

I smiled as I gave his chin a chuck. “Stop being cute. It’s beneath you.”

“Mine,” Cyrus muttered, tightening his hold on me.

“For starters, I’m going to stop looking at you. The sight of you fries circuits in my brain.” He wore black slacks and a white dress shirt with the sleeves partially rolled, revealing the world’s hottest forearms. Multiple rings adorned his fingers.

Somewhere along the way, this man had become synonymous with security, laughter, and desire.

I’d severed my connection to Cured, making me officially an enemy. Zero regrets.