Mag-log inI pressed my lips together, forcing a smile and hoping my nerves didn’t come through.“Understood,” I said.Without another word, he turned and walked in the opposite direction. With a tightening chest, I walked towards where Gemma was with a few other girls. They were giggling at something she was
Joanne’s POVToday was technically my first day at the clinic. Yesterday, after I saved that patient, I was shown the ropes before I was sent on my way. Today, they told me I'd be doing some actual work, and I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t excited.I was finally going to feel useful again, like I di
He lowered himself so his lips were only inches from mine. I knew I should have pulled away, told him to go to hell, and that I won’t be his mistress. But I couldn’t bring myself to do that; his scent was alluring, and the way he looked at me made my heart skip a beat.My emotions were all over the
Joanne’s POVI stepped away from him as if he had burned me, and I started to back into my room. He followed me inside and shut the door.“Who were you talking to?” I wanted to ask him why it mattered. But my lips wouldn’t form the words.“I thought Talia left something behind…” I tell him. “What
“I don’t know,” she finally said. “I think there is more to it.”When I didn’t say anything more, she let out a breath.“He cares for you, Lady Joanne. He sought me out himself and asked me to bring you a meal. Lady Vivien was not in sight. I know it might be hard to believe, but you are worth the l
Joanne’s POVMy chest ached; I ran back to my chambers as fast as I could, my heart feeling as though it was going to explode. I didn’t want Alexander and Vivien to see me cry; thankfully, the tears didn’t come until I was a great distance away.I opened the door and stepped inside, letting a sob es
“No…” I said softly, clearing my throat as I turned to look at Vivien. “I… uh… congratulations.”The word tasted bitter in my mouth.Vivien blushed again.“Thank you,” she replied warmly, stepping closer. “We’re to be married in a month.”A month.Lucia let out a pleased sigh.“Such a romantic thing
Joanne’s POV“Joanne, don’t—”Rem’s hand brushed my arm, gentle but urgent, trying to steer me away. I hardly felt it. My feet had already carried me forward, pulled by a horrible mix of curiosity and dread. I knew I shouldn’t be listening. I knew I should turn around, pretend I hadn’t heard any of
Talia seemed startled and jumped away from me; her breath caught in her throat. I gave her a reassuring smile as I went towards the doorway and peeked through the peephole. A smile graced my lips when I saw who it was.I pulled the door open to greet the gentleman at the door.“I was beginning to th
Joanne’s POVSomething was different this morning, and it wasn’t just the fact that Alexander had left me again. I could feel the heaviness in the air; there was a strange weight on this palace, and it made my chest feel tight with worry.The walls themselves were buzzing with something I didn’t yet







