Chapter 41I was found, but someone lost her power. What I need most now is not available. Nathalia is still healing to finally get her power back; she used it too much on the echelons and herself. There was nothing left for me, or at least for Marcus. I felt weak again. I covered my mouth and backed away. What would happen to my Marcus? I have to go back to Marcus and bring him to the palace; maybe the echelons will help me, right?"Can you explain what you're saying? I'm confused. Why do you have to revive your friend? Is she dead or what? Is she here And why is she here?" Corinthians asked, confused.I'm a total mess. Can I say that I am a thief, and the friend I am talking about is a fellow thief? And he is a he, not a she."I have to go back to him," I said, and I started walking back to where Marcus was, even though I wasn't sure where that was."Precious, wait," said Zavan, stopping me, but I persisted. I thought that Nathalia could help me; now that I know that she can't, I wi

Chapter 43The prince was called throughout the day to meet with the echelons. I was just left in Manang Omeng's room, and I wondered if what I was doing was still right. Just like at the beginning of the game I knew I was going to lose, I can't win against the law. The status is too strong. And a pauper can't live with a prince. Zavan and I are making a big mistake; besides, the prince doesn't know where I come from. What should I do?"Tea for your deep thoughts." I was shocked to turn to Manang Omeng; I was really floating. "What are your thoughts that seem so deep?" she asked.I sighed. Should I tell Manang Omeng about me?"It seems that the Prince has fallen in love with you; Zavan doesn't just let go. I hope you are ready for what you have entered," she said.That's it Manang, and I'm not ready. I gambled on a game I knew I'd lose."Manang, I have something to say." I said in a low voice."If you have something to say, say it right away because you're too suspenseful and I feel l

Chapter 45"What's going on here?""Good morning, Prince Zavan."My previous fear was replaced by hope. I quickly ran to Zavan. I turned to Maximus, who looked at me darkly, as if indicating that we were not done yet. Wait, why am I the target again?"Why are you holding her?" Zavan asked Maximus with tight jaws. My nervousness rose because it was not easy to stop Zavan."I'm sorry for what I did." Maximus answered with his head down. They were quiet in the presence of the prince. It's a good thing that Zavan came because otherwise—I don't know what I'm going to do—I'm sure it's going to be a disaster."Zavan," I stopped and grabbed his arm as he stiffly stepped closer to Maximus."No one touches my girl, do you understand?""Yes, prince," they answered, including Maximus. I looked at Maximus; his look gave me a headache. It seemed to give me even more hope of using me against Zavan."Especially you," said Zavan, and he pointed to Maximus. He was ashamed to kneel down and apologize ag

Chapter 47The wind blew outside my window. I literally burst into tears when Manang came to me while holding the gown I was going to wear. Never in my life did I think I would wear something as beautiful as this. I had enough to wear before, but now I can wear a gown for the very first time. At the shindig, the most important event in the entire Euphrates took place."Finished." Manang smiled and lifted my gown.I suddenly hugged her out of joy, and I'm sure my grandmother will be happy too when she sees me wearing it. "Thank you very much." I cried."What are you doing?" she asked, facing me. "Get dressed; the shindig can't wait... especially the prince." she said and winked.I laughed and wiped my tears and said, "Manang." I mumbled, "Thank you.""You're welcome," she replied, smiling at me. "Remember, this night is for you. Savor the beauty of the night, and you will shine," she reminded him before completely leaving.I was stunned to see what I would wear to bed. I took it, trem

CHAPTER 49We softly danced to the soft melody of the orchestra. throwing every doubt and fear out the window. That was the best night of my life. I'm dancing with the prince—not just any other person, but the prince himself.My hands were wrapped around his neck while his was on my waist. We're too close to each other; I follow the rhythm of his movement. The prince is really tall; I'm wearing heels up to his shoulders. "Can I dance with the echelons?" I couldn't stop asking.I swallowed when his face darkened. not happy with my question. He's being possessive and irrational; maybe it's not right if even among his echelons he denies me.The prince sighed, "Of course." he answered.I was surprised by his answer and smiled. "I know you'll dance some elites and royals here. Let's be fair."His brow furrowed. "What are you talking about?""You're a prince. You are supposed to dance with the most beautiful girl here, someone elite or royal." There was sadness in my voice because it wasn'