Rue’s POV

The fact that a lot of press were there meant that someone had already tipped every camera in the vicinity. I knew it wasn’t accidental—Aiden himself had deliberately leaked the “partnership with Marcus” to the press last night.

He had anticipated glory and validation. He wanted the world to see him crowned before even the contract was announced.

But fate had a cruel sense of humor.

I shouldn’t have been surprised, they had complete hope they’d win. I almost pitied him. ...