Burn the Marriage, Keep the Crown

Chapter 213

When Serena opened her eyes, the faint scent of flowers greeted her.

She turned her head and saw a vibrant bouquet of lilies on the bedside table. "You're awake?" A gentle yet steady voice cut through the quiet.

Serena slowly shifted her gaze until she saw William in his wheelchair by the window.

Sunlight spilled across his face, softening his features. His eyes were as warm and bright as always, but this morning they seemed shadowed by weariness-a subtle, grayish fatigue beneath the kindness.

Serena blinked. "Weren't you supposed to be in Alderburg?"

William's smile was reassuring. "I finished up business there and came right back."

She tried to push herself upright, but William gently stopped her.

His hand was broad and warm-so different from Aaron's, whose touch was always cold and distant.

"The doctor said you need to rest," William said, watching her with concern flickering in his eyes.

The doctor had also mentioned that Serena must've been under a lot of stress lately for her to collapse so suddenly. William didn't want to imagine what she'd gone through while he was away in Alderburg.

an acknowledgment,

needles, setting her thoughts buzzing

"It wasn't you."

the silence, startling

confusion and pain

as if he'd been there himself. "You had nothing to do with your

at him, surprised. "How... how did you know

I fainted?"

told me,"

now-just before she lost consciousness, she'd heard Gabrielle calling her

she asked, glancing

you all night. I convinced her to head home and

gratitude washed over

"Sorry for

gently through her hair. "Don't be silly." Serena froze,

throat. "I know what happened yesterday," he said gently. "Don't let it weigh on you. I truly don't

drain the warmth from Serena's cheeks. She lowered her lashes, her voice thick with sorrow. "But if I

"Losing your father was too much to bear. It's normal to bury memories