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.

heart clenched. He disliked this prickly version of Serena. He missed the gentle, unguarded Serena

was a mistake, but don't you

her strength, she finally freed herself from his grip and walked away without looking

be filled with confusion. Was

pulled out his phone and dialed Victor's number. "Find out when Serena returned

"Serena is actually

...

already three in the morning. The thought of no longer having to tiptoe around Aaron brought a spring

by Aaron's stern presence, sitting on

at the room number to ensure she hadn't made a

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

to sort things out, not to fight. I know skipping out on the wedding was wrong, and whatever compensation you

don't need anything from you," Serena replied, her face chillingly beautiful under the warm light.