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.

acknowledgment, but Bella's words echoed in her mind

words stung like needles, setting her thoughts

"It wasn't you."

the silence,

him, confusion and pain flickering in her

said, firm and certain, as if he'd been there himself. "You had nothing to do

surprised. "How... how did

I fainted?"

me," he

consciousness, she'd

asked, glancing around the hospital

you all night. I convinced her to head home and get

wave of gratitude washed

"Sorry for causing so

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

pulled back, clearing his throat. "I know what happened yesterday," he said gently. "Don't let it weigh on you. I truly don't believe you had anything to do with your

from Serena's cheeks. She lowered her lashes, her voice thick with

a child," William said quietly. "Losing your father was too much to bear.