Like all the others, Prince Edward's intervention effort was received with silence. The Sheik's word was definitive, and there would be no exceptions. Emily's destiny was predetermined long before anybody could alter it.
The gravity of it all hit Jake like a freight train as he and his family sat at the table and stared at the chilly official paperwork. He had no power. He had let her down.
"Is there nothing else we can do?" The heavy quiet gave way to Mrs. Hernandez's voice, which was filled with agony. Unanswered, her inquiry lingered in the air.
Uncle Jacob sighed, exhausting himself. His voice was scratchy, and he replied gently, "Jake's done everything. We've all tried. Nobody can override the laws of that land, even the U.S. government and the Kingdom of Stonasia's crown prince."
Jake reclined on his chair with his mouth clenched and his thoughts scattered. Never in his life has he felt so helpless.
