Pathways (The Kingdom Chronicles, #1)

by Camille Peters

“Perhaps it does, perhaps it doesn’t. That’s the funny thing about paths; you can’t see where they lead unless you walk them.”

“Why is Aiden having you creepily follow me?” Guard Alastar cocked an eyebrow. “Creepily? I was going for discreetly and protectively.”

“Are you glaring at the silverware, Gemma?” Princess Elodie whispered. I rapidly raised my gaze in time to see Prince Liam pick up his knife and examine it with a frown. “Can you blame her? It does seem rather offensive.”

“A heart is too precious to risk, especially when a heart is so easy to break.”

“An educated wife doesn’t guarantee a happy marriage, for memorizing facts doesn’t determine the kindness of one’s heart, which you have in abundance.”

A true ruler must be humble enough to accept help when needed and be well informed on whom to ask.”

“You did say you weren’t perfect. I’m immensely disappointed that you were correct.”

True love wasn’t about two perfect people living a happily ever after—it was two imperfect people doing their best; it was about forgiveness and second chances, about helping one another grow into their better selves.

I grinned slyly. “Does this mean I won the competition?” He laughed. “You won before it even started. It was never a contest, merely a formality to appease my father.” “You did more than that—you somehow convinced him we should be allowed to marry.” “We did,” he corrected. I hooked my arms around his neck and beamed up at him. “I still couldn’t have done it without you. What payment do I owe you for our triumph?” “Hmm, I haven’t actually thought about it.” He considered before grinning mischievously. “How about your firstborn child?” I laughed. “You only want my firstborn? It seems fitting I share them all with you.” “Deal.”