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.

three of them headed to the shore to make final preparations for the journey. Zachary busied himself checking the boat's equipment while Shirley and Serena watched,

as he checked his watch. "We should get

reluctant to let go. "I don't know when we'll see each

their time together had been brief, Shirley's

a tearful smile. Zachary, seeing his wife's eyes welling up, gently comforted her. "Come now,

heavy heart, Shirley nodded and reluctantly released Serena's hand. Serena, swallowing her own tears, watched as Shirley stepped

Shirley was safely ashore, Zachary turned to

As the boat glided away, Serena discreetly wiped her eyes and

cut through the night, like a solitary leaf drifting across the vast, endless sea. Serena gazed out at the boundless horizon, her heart

then, a flood of lights burst into view behind them. In the quiet village, such a sight