I want you to know that I'll always be here for you. He paused and then rushed on. When the day comes that Prince Damian breaks your heart and you need a friend to turn to, I'll be right here for you, just like I always have been.

Well, do you want her help or not? Rylan asked impatiently. And then Damian finally spoke. Rylan, I demand you apologize to Alexa at once. That is no way to talk to my fiancee. Your what? In his shock, Rylan didn't even attempt to hide the half horror, half jealousy on his face or in his voice.

He looked at me for a moment longer, with unbearable longing. I love you, Alexa. No matter what happens tomorrow, or any day after that, I will always love you. My eyes burned. I love you, too, Rylan. But it's not enough, he said. I was too late.

Have you ever heard of the theory that it is better for one man to die than an entire nation to suffer? Do you believe that to be true? Is it ever okay to take a life in hopes of saving others?

I am Damian, the king of Antion, and no one will ever take someone I love from me again and live.