His hands glided over her satin dress until he was pulling her even closer to him. "I have the bad feeling you will pretend this never happened," he whispered, one hand going to the back of her neck. "But having you like this and not doing anything is pure torture." Before Eleonor could register his words, he tightened his grip and pulled her flush against him. Eleonor's heart was racing in her chest, the alcohol probably being the only thing making her brave or stupid enough to close her eyes. Grayson didn't waste a second, kissing her as soon as her lids fell shut. She could feel his hand tracing her hips, pressing her against him as if he were trying to get even closer. Their lips meshed together, a sigh leaving her mouth before she could suppress it. Grayson tasted like the drink they both had and the bad decisions they took. _________________________________ In a kingdom where high society is a glittering façade that masks the harsh reality for its women, Eleonor, the fierce daughter of Duke Fairdal, is forced to attend the academy for young ladies. Twice a year the season's ball takes place where young nobles are expected to find a spouse and secure their future through a noble marriage. Amidst the glittering lights and elegant dances, she meets a captivating stranger whose dark allure and promise of freedom leave her breathless. But the evening takes a deadly turn when tragedy strikes, plunging the kingdom into chaos. As Eleonor is swept away by the ruthless suitor, she finds herself ensnared in a perilous bargain. To win her freedom, she must navigate the treacherous court of a rival kingdom, posing as the fiancée of a man she barely knows but whose touch ignites a dangerous feeling within her. In a world where power is the ultimate prize and loyalty is a rare commodity, Eleonor must unravel the secrets of her captor's court, all while guarding her own heart. Will love bloom amidst the shadows, or will their dark natures destroy them both?