Between Flames and Deceit (The Dragon's Heart Trilogy #1)

by M.A. Frick

“You would have me return to the palace,” I spat, fury rising within, “and spread my legs for your son–” “No!” His roar cracked through the night, making me flinch. “I would have you feed your people! Secure peace for Radaan!” His voice broke, his hands curling into fists. “Do you think this is easy for me? That I don’t burn for you every moment, knowing I can never have you?”

“How can I marry someone when my heart belongs to another?” He froze, his words brittle. “You don’t love me, Nienna. You cannot.” The force of his denial crushed my chest, and tears seared icy paths down my cheeks. I clenched my fists, forcing myself to breathe through the ache. “Tell that to my heart, Kallias!” My voice cracked as I hauled myself upright. He extended a hand, but I refused it, stepping back as though his touch might shatter me completely. “Tell that to my soul when you’re the first thing I think of when I wake. When I look for you throughout the day just hoping for a glimpse of your mantle. Tell me that when I lie awake at night, consumed by a fire only you could quench.”