When news breaks that the bride to Bellaros has been chosen, Eloise rushes ahead in light clothing, anxious she might be sent away. Cam insists she will stay by Eloise's side, even offering to be a concubine; another person vows to secure Cam a proper title, petition Father to make her a secondary consort after marriage, and have Cam stay at Eloise's manor. Later Hayden awakens and promises lifelong protection, but Eloise snaps, "I don't need your protection anymore," accusing him of abandoning her in the cold. Servants cry, "Your Highness!"—leaving the selection and loyalties unresolved.