Burn the Marriage, Keep the Crown

Chapter 6

As Serena carefully placed the last item into her suitcase, she glanced up and noticed a tall figure standing in the doorway. Despite the weariness etched on his face, Aaron's handsome features were highlighted perfectly under the soft glow of the hallway lights, as if he were a work of art.

Serena held her breath for a moment.

"What are you doing?" Aaron's gaze was intense, as if he could see right through her.

Standing protectively in front of her suitcase, Serena replied, “Just looking for something."

Aaron didn't question her further and stepped inside the room.

"I've been swamped these past few days. I just confirmed with Victor that we're free on the 19th. Let's go get our marriage certificate then!" he announced, as if it were just another item on his to-do list.

Serena tilted her head slightly, "The 19th is my birthday."

She caught a flicker of surprise in Aaron's eyes.

"I have plans that day."

"Since when do you celebrate your birthday?” he asked.

you, she thought, but didn't say it out

adjusting his tie as

towel wrapped around his waist. Water droplets trailed down his chest and over his perfectly

in her phone. His brows furrowed slightly. In the past, just flashing

for bed," Aaron said, switching off the

darkness, Serena stood up,

as the door

room was once

unease flickered inside him, but he quickly brushed

Nothing's going to happen.

It'll be fine.

...

He hadn't been able to reach Aaron either, which once would have been troubling news

possessions were gifts she

packed everything into her suitcase and left Rosewood Gardens, with the household staff assuming she was just going on a

wrapped up all her affairs and just needed

buying a tiny cake. She took it to a quiet spot in the park and slowly

was sweet, and for once, she didn't have to worry about Aaron leaving

the dark sky,