Jared entered his throne room with heavy steps, his shoulders slumped and his face contorted with frustration and anger. Even though she could not speak, Abby portrayed her true feelings without hesitation. She had rejected him for Gregory, a lowly, inexperienced doctor.  

　　Jared didn't understand any of it. Why were women rejecting him? He had the influence and the money. What more did they want? Jared was still reeling from the blow to his ego.

　　As he took his ...