Short Synopsis
Hailey Edwards presents a new short story in the Araneae Nation series. Contains mature themes.

Full Synopsis
Reine knows marriage isn't about love. It's about making the best bargain you can with what you have and then living with the consequences. Wedding vows are alliances given voice, and I do is on the tip of her tongue.

Ennis is a man on a mission to woo the future Araneidae maven, whether she wants him or not. Her clan is wealthy, prosperous, and in dire need of the one thing his people have to offer—protection. But one look at her and all thought of his obligations vanish. He'll court Reine, but he wants the feisty heiress all to himself.

Forced to entertain offers from her bevy of suitors, Reine is torn between duty to her people and loyalty to herself. Ennis is the man she wants, but is he the future paladin her fragile clan needs? She can choose to lead with her head or, for once, she can follow her heart.

Contains mature themes.