Burn the Marriage, Keep the Crown

Chapter 15

As Serena's eyes welled up with tears, Aaron felt an inexplicable irritation. More than that, there was a sense of panic, as if something precious was slipping away.

"If not for me, then for home? But haven't you already cut ties with that place?" he asked, his voice tinged with frustration.

Serena was momentarily taken aback. "How do you know?"

She had moved to Alderburg to sever all connections with her past, especially with Penelope. It was a decision she had kept to herself. How could Aaron possibly know?

"For seven years, you've been in Alderburg and never once returned. Isn't that enough to figure it out?" Aaron pointed out, his tone matter-of-fact.

The flicker of hope in Serena's eyes was swiftly extinguished. Of course. She shouldn't have expected anything different from Aaron. Thankfully, she had distanced herself emotionally, no longer feeling the heart-wrenching pain of the past.

Her gaze drifted down to her wrist, which was still firmly held by Aaron. "Let go," she said quietly, but with unwavering determination.

of Serena. He missed the gentle, unguarded Serena of

a mistake, but don't you

at him in disbelief. With all her strength, she finally freed herself from his grip and

to be filled with confusion.

and dialed Victor's number. "Find out when

equally surprised. "Serena is actually

...

she left feeling satisfied, even though it was already three

by Aaron's stern presence, sitting on the sofa,

ensure she hadn't made a mistake,

come back whenever I please. Who are you to me that I should report my every move?" Serena retorted, pointing to the door.

deeply. "I waited to sort things out, not to fight. I know skipping out on the wedding was wrong, and whatever

from you," Serena replied, her face chillingly beautiful under the warm light. "Aaron, we're