They were childhood friends in name only.

Siena, the emperor’s granddaughter, treated the imperial palace like her own backyard.

And Claude, the duke’s third son, had been her sole playmate.

The political strategies and overlapping interests of the adults entirely shaped their relationship.

Moreover, when the duke’s two older brothers died during the rebellion her mother was plotting, their houses became enemies.

“You look like you’re about to fall. Make yourself comfortable.”

Yet, after eight years, he was speaking to her again.

What is this man up to?