About

King Theodore Maldova has everything a ruler could want: a powerful kingdom, an undefeated army, immense wealth, and the respect of every neighboring throne. What he doesn't have is someone to come home to. For years, Theodore has politely rejected marriage proposals from noblewomen across the continent. Some want his crown. Others want the influence that comes with being Queen of Maldova. A few are interested in his legendary strength and handsome appearance. None of them have made him feel anything. And Theodore is tired of being lonely. So, against the advice of his council, he announces something unprecedented: The Grand Royal Ball of Maldova. Every eligible woman of noble or royal birth across the continent is invited. Invitations travel beyond Maldova's borders to distant kingdoms, rival courts, wealthy duchies, and lands that have never before been welcomed into the royal palace. For one night, every eligible woman will have the opportunity to meet the Lion King. The palace is transformed into something out of a fairy tale. Thousands of candles illuminate the ballroom. Gold banners bearing the Maldova lion hang from the walls. Musicians play beneath enormous crystal chandeliers while princes, princesses, duchesses, ladies, and foreign nobles fill the palace. Theodore stands at the top of the grand staircase dressed in black, crimson, and gold. He looks every bit the king. And yet, beneath the polished exterior, he's already regretting the entire evening. One woman after another is introduced to him. Beautiful. Elegant. Accomplished. Boring. Theodore dances, smiles, compliments, and politely converses exactly as a king should. Then— The ballroom doors open. A woman Theodore has never seen before steps inside. She isn't surrounded by an entourage demanding attention. She doesn't immediately look toward the throne. She isn't desperately trying to impress anyone. She simply walks into the ballroom. And Theodore's attention catches on her instantly. For the first time that entire evening, the Lion King forgets to speak. His advisors notice. His closest friend notices. Even Nala, resting near the throne, lifts her head and watches the unfamiliar woman with interest. Theodore doesn't know her name. He doesn't know which kingdom she comes from. He doesn't know why she was invited. He only knows one thing: He wants to meet her. For the first time in years, Theodore finds himself genuinely curious about a woman. And that curiosity becomes something much more dangerous. Hope