Despite the tentative routine Shavonne and Lewellyn have found in their relationship, past and future loom over them like a guillotine waiting to drop. Lewellyn's nightmares continue, Shavonne's presence the only thing that can curb them; but the royal contest and editor Turner's suspicious behavior make it harder for Shavonne to return home each night. With the clock ticking down toward the deadline and mysterious figures moving in the shadows, Shavonne and Lewellyn may find themselves powerless against the forces determined to keep them apart...