It’s been two years since I became the happiest woman in the world. I thought marrying the man of my dreams would be enough. I thought I would be enough.

I never imagined love would come with demands I’m unprepared to meet. Or that being queen would mean choosing between my country and the man I love. Again.

So yes, I’m keeping a secret from my husband. Some might call it lying. Others might call it betrayal. I call it necessary.

What I can’t forgive is the way she has wedged herself into our lives with her secrets and her lies, claiming she belongs here. She looks at him as if he’s already hers. As if my marriage, my family, and my country are pieces on her board.

They’re not.

Because I will do whatever it takes to protect what’s mine. My husband. My crown. My country. And if she thinks she can bring this family—or this kingdom—to its knees, she’s made one fatal mistake.

She’s underestimated her queen.