Chapter 69

WILLOW

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[A Week Later]

Just as I closed the book on my desk, the door opened. Turning, I saw Meredith at the entrance. Her grey eyes regarded me softly and when she fully came in, I saw she held a tray in her hands.

Drawing closer, she dropped the tray on my desk. The smell of pancakes filled my nose.

Meredith ordered gently, "Have something to eat."

Shaking my head, I pushed my chair away from the desk, rising. "I'm not hungry," I mumbled.

When I started to turn away, she grabbed my hand. Her eyes turned serious. "What good would it do to Lan if he returns and sees you're determined to starve yourself to death?"

Bloody feet dragging against hard concrete flashed across my mind, quickly followed by the sight of Lan's twisting form before he was beheaded. My throat tightened. "He's not coming back," I said, diverting my gaze from hers.

Dropping my hand, she stepped back. Her eyes flashed. "And what if he isn't? Are you just going to abandon your responsibilities? You have a kingdom t