The Queen of All that Dies (The Fallen World, #1)

by Laura Thalassa

The king scrutinizes me, and then ever so slowly, a smile appears. “I could have you killed for what you’ve said to me.” Fear grips my heart, but I call his bluff. “You won’t.” He spins me. “Oh, and why is that?” he asks, raising an eyebrow. “Because I amuse you.”

“You want to see compassion? Fine.” I take the hand pressed against my shoulders and kiss his knuckles. “I’ve now kissed the hand of my mother’s killer.” Before he has time to react to my chaste kiss, I bring my other hand up and slap him. His head whips to the side. “I’m also a vindictive bitch,” I say.

why do you like me?” A sinful smile spreads along the king’s lips, and he shifts his body so that his slick skin rubs against mine. “You’re clearly new at this,” he says. I bristle at his words. “Attraction and chemistry don’t follow any logical rules. You’re not the prettiest girl I’ve ever met, nor the smartest, nor the funniest.” I narrow my eyes at him. “But you are the girl I’ve altered a peace treaty for, and you are the girl I’m spending the evening with.”

You, a girl. That’s what he meant. Like owning a vagina made me inferior in some fundamental way.

There will be no honor to my sacrifice. Women who have filled the role of temptress have always been looked down upon.

I hold up a finger, and he patiently waits. The nausea passes, and I begin walking again. “What was that?” he asks. “It’s my body’s reaction to you.” “I’m glad I leave you short of breath.” “Don’t flatter yourself; I was trying not to barf.”

War tears down everything. Morals, loyalties, lives. Its aftershocks can ripple long after it ends.

only compassion can redeem someone.