The snow in Kingsward City had finally melted.

By mid-morning, a sleek convoy of a dozen black cars glided through the streets, carrying Francesca and her grandmother back to the Carter family estate. It had been her grandmother’s unwavering request: Francesca must be returned in the same manner Julian had once claimed her as his bride. Whatever the outcome, her Fran must leave with her dignity intact.

The polished black sedans, glimmering under the softened light ...