Violet: So Shall You Reap

Violet ignored her mother. She had nothing left to say to that woman. Instead, she looked squarely at Sancia.

"Sister, I'm telling you this for your own good. I know you think forcing through a marriage to the prince will solve everything. But let me tell you, it's not that easy. There are problems that riches can never solve, no matter how much you have." Violet swallowed thickly.

Her younger sister looked at her as if she was speaking blasphemy.

"You'll spend your life as an outsider within the family, with the king and queen's enmity hanging over you. It will take you years - and I mean years - to win even a little respect from the Devons, let alone the court." Violet smiled with bitterness. "Is that the life you want? To be a walking pariah with no one you can really confide in?"

The faintest flicker of doubt crossed Sancia's eyes before it was quickly chased away. "I'll have my husband to defend me."