Chapter 249. An Offer You Can't Refuse

"Longer than you, that's for certain. You didn't even know she was alive when I started this house for her." Martin narrowed his eyes. "I should have known that you would sink your claws into the one thing I wanted. Is this revenge for what happened with Grace?"

"Mates are destined, Martin. Don't flatter yourself thinking that I cared what you wanted." William leaned forward. "There is nothing you could give me in exchange for her. She is not up for negotiation and she never will be. You might as well stop while you're ahead."

Doris felt her heart leap in her chest. She knew he wouldn't have given her up, but part of her had always worried how far he would go for the crown. Clearly there had always been a line, and she was it.

"Answer me this, William. When did you start to pursue the crown? I always thought you had better things to do than care about your own kingdom. I don't remember you in any of the lessons when we were children. You were always off doing your o