Diamond by Lesley Clark

In this game of life, I never know whether I am the pawn or the queen.

Valentina:
I always knew I wouldn’t choose my groom, but I’d never imagined I’d be given in marriage to the last man on earth I wanted. Matteo is the dark prince from my childhood, but I never wanted him to be my king.

Matteo:
From the time I was a boy, I’d known Valentina was mine. Her reluctance to unite our families does not matter. She’s always belonged to me, and It is time to bring her home.
When enemies conspire to end our alliance before it can begin, I will do whatever it takes to claim my Queen.

Originally published in Dark Vows. Story has been expanded and edited.