Chapter 6

Victoria was resplendent in a lavish gown, cradling her son. Her expression wore a mask of undisguised triumph and arrogance.

When her eyes found me, she froze for a fleeting second.

Then, a flash of jealousy and resentment darkened her gaze.

It was clear she hadn't expected to see me, the "jinx" she had cast aside, alive, let alone thriving far better than she had ever imagined.

She approached me, clutching the child, her smile a saccharine facade. "Charlotte, it has been a long time. You look... remarkably well.

"It seems Crown Prince treats you quite generously."

I offered a…