Burn the Marriage, Keep the Crown

Chapter 17

After Aaron left, his assistant waited for a while before turning to William. "Mr. Grayson, why didn't you just tell Mr. Vance that the person you'll be marrying tomorrow is Miss Serena?"

William smiled, his features warm and gentle in the soft, golden light, appearing almost dreamlike. "Revealing the mystery too quickly would take away all the fun." The assistant was left speechless.

...

Serena visited the Valerian Institute of Arts and Sciences, where her father's old colleague and fellow alumnus now served as the head of the artifact restoration center. She had studied artifact restoration in college, but because Aaron was particularly sensitive to certain smells, she declined the center's offer after graduation. Instead, she chose to live at Rosewood Gardens, taking care of Aaron with the devotion of a handmaid, cooking and doing laundry.

Now that she was back in Northspire, Serena had been contemplating returning to her career. Today, she had finally gathered the courage to visit the restoration center.

me to make you an offer. When you turned us down, I was disappointed. But now, here you are! Promise me you'll join

Director Thomas, feeling grateful. "Alright, once I

her new

beamed, thrilled that Serena had so readily agreed

Serena said, waving goodbye

her car, she realized she didn't know where to go. She didn't want to return to the hotel, and could she even consider that place her

aimlessly, Serena found herself at the seaside. Nearby, a newlywed couple was having their wedding photos taken. They looked tired, likely from a long day of shooting, but their smiles were still bright and filled with happiness. Serena thought of Aaron and Cynthia Lynwood. Aaron would probably have the same joyful smile when they took their wedding photos. She smiled to herself,

honking behind her until she heard the excited murmurs of the crowd. Following their

there was no one else nearby. The

these are 999 roses from Mr. Vance," the server