Return of the Crowned Heiress

Felicia acted as if she had no idea of her precarious situation, carrying herself like a guest of honor in the Glover estate. She demanded the best food and drink every day, directing the staff with an air of entitlement. Beyond that, she frequently mentioned her plans to return to Khogend once Maurice's legs were healed, dropping casual remarks that made her optimism clear.

Even Maurice's men, tasked with shadowing her under the guise of assisting, found her naiveté amusing.

Did she really think she could walk out of Maurice's lair unscathed?

Of course, they all played along until Maurice's legs were fully restored. No one would tip their hand or reveal the fangs waiting beneath.

...

Meanwhile, back in Khogend, it was the third day since Felicia had disappeared.

Carmen was at her wits' end, her lips cracked and dry from stress.

Three days ago, she'd been hiking and laughing with Felicia, only to have their descent interrupted by an ambush.

weren't amateurs-they came prepared, and they came

stay and fight alongside her friend, but Felicia had pushed her away, insisting she'd only be a burden.

was trying to protect her, and with

with help, Felicia was gone. There wasn't a single clue left behind. The trail had been wiped clean, and every surveillance camera along the way had

Felicia remained missing, the more danger she

hadn't slept since the abduction, her mind plagued by nightmarish scenarios of what might be happening to Felicia. Visions

be

her. Then, like

since Felicia was still their daughter, no matter the estrangement. Surely, her

a jacket and bolted for the door. But as soon as she opened it, she was

her apartment and Felicia's. He was relentless, like an annoying leech she

started

to grab a kitchen knife. She returned, blade in hand,