Burn the Marriage, Keep the Crown

Chapter 49

"You're back." Aaron murmured, his long fingers tapping rhythmically on his tablet.

Dressed in a casual white shirt paired with tailored trousers, he exuded a laid- back yet untamed charisma. However, Serena could still sense a hint of danger lurking beneath his calm demeanor.

After seven years by Aaron's side, she had grown adept at reading his moods. In the past, if she noticed he was upset, she would go to great lengths to cheer him up. But now, her feelings had changed. She no longer loved him, so why should his mood affect her?

Ignoring Aaron, Serena began her ascent up the stairs.

Aaron lifted his head just as she turned, catching sight of her resolute silhouette. His expression hardened. "Serena!"

Serena acted as if she hadn't heard him, continuing her steady climb to the second floor.

In a few swift strides, Aaron was behind her, grasping her wrist firmly. "I'm talking to you. Didn't you hear me?"

Serena stared coldly at her captured wrist. "If you want me to stay quietly in Rosewood Gardens, treat me like I'm invisible. Otherwise, I won't hesitate to jump from the second floor."

scar still healing on Serena's forehead, his

grip. "You know I don't respond well

shifted her gaze, her lips curling into a brilliant smile, as if

thorns. Of course,

just want to end

I have to do for you to speak to me properly? If you want the title of Mrs. Vance, I can give it to you

from Aaron. "You still think I'm upset because I want to be Mrs.

solely because they hadn't made

at a loss for how to fix things. In four years together, he had never been one to placate Serena. He didn't know

"I admit I ignored

is no 'from now

off, her

though a massive hand

scene flashing through his mind, jealousy