Chapter 4

On the night of the royal party, the castle was ablaze with light, bright as daylight.

Paul stood tall in his military uniform, radiating confidence and energy.

Vanessa nestled close to him, dressed extravagantly despite lacking any official title, as if she were the lady of the house.

His colleagues showered him with compliments, and Paul wore a proud smile, though his eyes kept drifting toward the entrance.

He was waiting for me.

He was convinced I'd show up.

He figured three days was plenty for me to suffer.

He even bet his lieutenant I'd show up in rags, kneeling…