Chapter 28

At the hospital, Thalia met Asher’s eyes with quiet resolve. “If I told you there’s more to Grace’s story, would you believe me?”

The silence stretched between them. Thalia felt her heart sink–what a foolish question. Of course he would choose Grace, his sister of so many years, over an arranged match he barely knew.

But Asher’s response came without hesitation: “I trust you completely.”

The words hung in the air, stunning them both.

Grace’s face went ashen. “Asher, how can you–she’s lying! I’m your sister!”

“That’s enough.” Asher’s voice carried a razor’s edge. “From the moment you met Thalia, you’ve shown nothing but hostility. And now this ridiculous story about her spooking Snow?” His eyes hardened. “I know Thalia. She would never do something like that.”

Thalia stood speechless, her throat tight with emotion. She’d been so certain he would side with Grace. The depth of his trust left her reeling.

“Grace” Asher’s tone could have frozen flame. “Remember your place in this family.”

The implied message was crystal clear: Being the Blackwoods‘ ward didn’t make her truly one of them.

Grace’s lips trembled as tears spilled down her cheeks. She opened her mouth but no sound emerged.

“Get some rest,” Asher said curtly, turning to leave.

By Grace’s bedside, Thalia regarded the sobbing girl with cool detachment. “Was it worth it?”

Outside in the parking lot, Asher fell into step beside Thalia. “I’m sorry about all this.”

“What are you apologizing for?”

“Grace’s behavior–it’s inexcusable.” He ran a hand through his hair. “I’ll get to the bottom of this.”

a soft, humorless laugh. “No

you mean?”

16:14

don’t see it? Grace is in love with you,

brow furrowed as the pieces fell

with her from now on,” he said

Thalia asked,

softened as he looked at her. “Because I want you

did you believe me over Grace? She’s been your sister

warm glow through the windshield as Asher turned to face her fully. The love in

you,” he said simply. “And

– eat.

skipped a beat. She turned away quickly,

ears, Asher smiled softly. His Thalia was adorable when she was flustered.

Thalia’s innocence. Snow’s medical examination showed no health issues, but revealed a needle scratch on the horse’s neck–a mark that could only have been made by someone riding. The

for her–private nurses and regular meals delivered by

jewelry, Asher remained steadfastly

driving them apart as Grace had schemed, it had brought them closer. Asher’s unwavering support and subsequent confession

wary of rushing into feelings–she found herself warming to Asher’s steady devotion. There was something profoundly moving about

16:14

Chapter 28

for November 15th, just over a

while they were browsing a luxury boutique’s private salon, Thalia’s phone buzzed. Models similar to her build were showcasing the season’s

on you,”

it too,” she agreed. “And that

deliberately turned away, giving

photos from Sienna. They showed her and Drake at Glacier National Park in Montana. The accompanying text dripped with

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