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

another day," Aaron said, adjusting his

just a towel wrapped around his waist. Water droplets trailed down his chest and

engrossed in her phone. His brows furrowed slightly.

said, switching off the

stood up,

as the

was once again engulfed

flickered inside him, but

Nothing's going to happen.

It'll be fine.

...

about a business trip. He hadn't been able to reach Aaron either, which once would have

gather her things. Most of her possessions were gifts she had

suitcase and left Rosewood Gardens, with the household staff assuming she was just

up all her affairs and just needed to wait for

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

once, she didn't have to worry about Aaron leaving midway through her

at the dark sky, a faint smile playing