A proper gentleman. A stoic soldier. Their passion ignites a defiant love...

Lord Patrick Upshur seemingly hasn't a care in the world. He's a younger son of a wealthy lord in the Realm and his only responsibilities include behaving in a manner his father sees fit and possibly getting married someday. No one, not even Patrick's closest sibling, knows that he's hiding a painful secret ? one that could disgrace him and the Upshur family forever.

Commandant Iseul of the White Riders understands he should concentrate on only three things ? commanding his men in the barracks, serving the sovereign, and protecting the Realm. He's only given in to his deepest desires once and he's vowed to never do it again.

Both are resigned to their fates as the annual summer Solstice festival arrives.

After a chance encounter in a secluded courtyard in a tavern, it's love at first sight.

Enamored, the two vow to meet again, despite the edicts of the Realm forbidding any relationship between them.

As their passion blossoms into something deeper, they plot to run away together but are thwarted by tragedy.

Can their love survive in a world that forces them to conceal their feelings?

This steamy romance with a guaranteed happily-ever-after is part of The Serrulata Saga but can be read as a standalone.