Synopsis

On the day Aria Velborne tries on her bridal gown for the Ember Bond, everyone treats her adopted sister Lysaea as the future Dragon Empress—even Darian, the Dragon Emperor and Aria’s destined mate. Forgotten, replaced, and finally done begging to be seen, Aria returns his tokens and vanishes before the ceremony. Eight years later, she comes home free and unshackled, while Darian, ruined by regret, waits for the bride he lost—until fate may steal his chance to wait at all.