Burn the Marriage, Keep the Crown

Chapter 134

Shirley pulled up a chair for her guest. "My husband promised he would be back today, and he always keeps his word. Don't worry," she reassured.

Serena managed a smile, masking the worry that lingered in her eyes. The longer she stayed in Alderburg, the more she felt a sense of impending danger.

By five in the evening, Zachary finally arrived. "You must be Serena," he said warmly, his eyes crinkling into a friendly smile. Years of working outdoors had weathered his face beyond his years, but his gaze was gentle and sincere.

"That's right. Samuel told you everything, didn't he?" Serena replied.

"Yes, he did. The weather is just right for sailing tonight. We can set off at eight," Zachary confirmed.

Hearing this, Serena felt a wave of relief wash over her.

dinner, the three of them headed to the shore to make final preparations for the journey. Zachary busied himself

announced as he checked his watch. "We should

when we'll see each other again, Serena. Take

together had been brief, Shirley's tender care

said it, so don't break your promise!" Shirley insisted with a tearful smile. Zachary, seeing his wife's eyes welling up, gently comforted her. "Come now, don't cry in front of the kid. It's time

hand. Serena, swallowing her own tears,

Shirley was safely ashore, Zachary turned

started the engine. As the boat

Serena gazed out at the boundless horizon, her

then, a flood of lights burst into view behind