Austin, the androgynous prince of Valencia, has loved Leo since Leo saved him in his youth. When Leo prepares to marry Austin's sister Stella, a rockslide leaves Stella in a coma—and Austin seizes the chance to stage a soul-possession deception, entering the palace to get closer to him. He forges a blood pact and deliberately provokes Leo, walking the edge between lies and desire. As Queen Flora and minister Zane plot to seize the throne, Austin sacrifices his heart's blood.