Burn the Marriage, Keep the Crown

Chapter 256

Serena sat on the couch, her attention fixed on the television, as if she hadn't even noticed the tension simmering between the two men in the room.

Her long, silky hair cascaded over her cheekbones, framing her petite face and accentuating her delicate features. There was a serene focus in her expression; she looked softer, calmer, and more composed than usual no hint of irritation, just a gentle tranquility that seemed to settle the atmosphere.

For a moment, even Aaron's usually cold and guarded heart felt a little less impenetrable.

"Serena, you're up next," William's warm voice cut through the silence, snapping Aaron back to reality and instantly rebuilding the icy walls around his heart.

He glanced at the screen.

There, on TV, was Serena-gone was the nervousness she'd shown in her first appearance, replaced by an air of poise and maturity. She looked so self-assured

now.

Aaron had already seen this segment being filmed, but watching it again, he didn't find it dull at all. In fact, he found himself genuinely interested.

"Serena," William's voice echoed again, this time from the TV. "You're even better this time. You've got real stage presence-more mature, and your timing is excellent. You handled yourself with a lot of confidence and control."

Serena's eyes lit up at the straightforward praise. "Really?"

"Absolutely," William replied, smiling. "I've worked with plenty of performers, and for someone new to have your kind of poise-it's rare."

into a smile when a heavy, dismissive scoff sounded

how to flatter

what's that supposed to mean, Mr. Vance? Are you saying I

was caught off guard, momentarily speechless. He looked away from Serena and locked eyes with

amused, almost investigative

turned away. "Serena, don't be so naive. A few sweet words shouldn't make your head spin. You should know your

to do with you, Mr. Vance? Shouldn't you be worrying

sooner had she finished speaking than Aaron's phone began

at the screen: Cynthia

His expression darkened immediately.

look to know who was calling-after

Lynwood. Content belo Cynthia

he caught a faint, mocking smile

wasn't the least bit surprised. She simply watched him, calm

the phone rang again.

He hung up

Cynthia's call came

widened.

you'd

etter

call,