It's the night of the Governor's Council New Year's Gala, and fourteen-year-old Xardin Creel has finally earned the right to be considered more than a second born to his family. After a disappointing performance at the gala, Xardin's father, Michigan's formidable Governor Xerxes Creel, sends Xardin and his older brother, Xanthus, who is next in line for the title, on tour in Texas. However, tragedy strikes when Xanthus becomes involved in a dangerous outing with the Governor of Texas's son, which ultimately leads to his inability to inherit the title of governor.

Xardin, now declared Michigan's future governor, must make an impression while interning in Massachusetts under Governor Corneliani Kambers to prove to his father that he is worthy of the title. Complications arise when he meets Paris, the governor's son, with whom he develops an intimate bond. With the Governor's Council watching their every move and impending arrangements threatening their relationship, Xardin must decide whether his love for Paris or his duty to his state is more important.