The hour-long horseback ride to the palace took Violet to new heights of discomfort. The more they shared magic, the easier she sensed Eden. His steady breathing, his focused gaze, his stiff posture, all determined to stay away from her.

She’d just trampled his heart, but at least he understood now. She couldn’t remain in the city, maybe not even in Basharr. This was the best thing for both of them—Eden would be free to focus on Chione while Violet could move on from the ...