“Imagine there was a cure, but finding it would cost you everything. It would completely ruin your life. What would you do?”

“If you were a gentleman, you would offer to buy me one as well.""If you were a lady, you would have waited for me to make the offer.”

“I knew they would kill me when they found out, but…” He struggled for words, releasing a sharp breath. “I think I realized that I would rather die because I betrayed them, than live because I betrayed you.”

“I don't want to tell you how to be a prince, but shouldn't you have some bodyguards or something?""Bodyguards? Who would want to harm a charming guy like me?”

“I think I realized that I would rather die because I betrayed them, than live because I betrayed you.”

“Oh, my stars! Think about Prince Kai! You could dance with Prince Kai!”This made Cinder pause and squint into Iko’s blinding light. “Why would the prince dance with me?”Iko’s fan hummed as she sought an answer. “Because you won’t have grease on your face this time.”

“Kai cleared his throat. Stood straighter. "I assume you are going to the ball?""I-I don't know. I mean, no. No, I'm sorry, I'm not going to the ball."Kai drew back, confused. "Oh well... but... maybe you would change your mind? Because I am, you know.""The prince.""Not bragging," he said quickly. "Just a fact.”