Emberfall: A Crown of Ashes

Synopsis

Five years into this marriage, I thought I would grow old with Caspian Draven. Yet I met a brutal death on Emberfest Night. Just before the lantern tower collapsed, his choice was clear: He abandoned us and carried Cordelia Vance, who had merely twisted her ankle. Only then did I finally give up on him. When my three-year-old son, burning with fever, was trampled to death by the fleeing crowd, I understood at last. There was never any room for us in his heart. When I opened my eyes again, I was back on the very day of the consort selection. Victory was already within my grasp. Only the final test of embroidery remained. I turned my hand deliberately and spilled the tea, ruining the needlework before me.