(SHEILA'S POV)Feeling utterly drained, both physically and mentally, I quietly made my way up to the second floor of the barn, a familiar retreat where I sought solace in the past few days. Nestled on a pile of hay beneath a makeshift cover out of jute sack, I found a semblance of comfort. The familiar sounds of cows lowing and sheep bleating acted as a balm to my troubled spirit.Unexpectedly, amidst the symphony of animal noises, I detected the rustle of footsteps. Initially, I assumed it was the old farmer and his nephew going about their evening chores. But as the sound drew nearer, I realized that wasn't the case."I'll tell you again, Emberlyn, you're completely out of your mind." Echoing through the air with a tone heavy with resignation, it was the familiar voice of my stepmother, Vespera. I knew her well enough to recognize the sincerity behind her words, particularly when directed at Emberlyn.Emberlyn remarked, her tone hinting pride. "But this plan turned out even better

(SHEILA'S POV)Standing in the pathway to the hidden garden's pavilion, I can't help but feel the weight of Orion's recent rejection pressing down on me. His words echo in my mind, telling me to leave and never return. The pain of his dismissal pierces through me, leaving my heart heavy with sadness.But even in the midst of this despair, a glimmer of hope flickers within me. As I wipe away my tears and gaze at the humble stone structure next to the pavilion, I find solace in what I've confirmed. One, was the fact that Orion truly has lost his memory of me. And second, despite his amnesia, he still reached out to wipe away the tears that spilled from my eyes.Recollections flood my mind, memories of a time when we lived together in the former Silverthorn. Orion always had a way of comforting me, of drying my tears no matter the cause. Whether it was a petty argument or a heartfelt conversation shared under the moonlight, he was always there, his jet-black hair brushing against my sk

(ORION'S POV)In the dimly lit dining room of the royal residence, I sat, savoring the last bite of my meal. Across from me, Emberlyn and Vespera chatted animatedly, their laughter echoing softly against the walls. They held glasses of wine, the ruby liquid catching the light in delicate swirls.Setting down my utensils with a soft clink, I signaled the end of my dinner. "That was quite a feast," I remarked, addressing my companions. "I hope you both found it as enjoyable as I did. The chefs truly outdid themselves tonight.""Prince Orion, these delicacies are positively divine," Vespera said as she smile softly, she seemed impressed. "It's truly generous of you to extend such a gracious invitation to folks like us. We're thoroughly enjoying ourselves, aren't we, Emberlyn?"Emberlyn seemed positively thrilled, practically glowing as she shared her thoughts. "Absolutely spot on, Prince Orion. That meal was simply divine! Thanks a ton for having us!"With a soft laugh, I observed Emberl

(ORION'S POV)As I stood there, facing Gunter in my office in the royal residence, I knew I was about to ignite a storm. Declaring Sheila as my personal attendant was a move I anticipated to receive resistance from Gunter, my loyal steward and advisor. And indeed, he did as I have anticipated. His objections were like waves crashing against a rocky shore, relentless and forceful.What if Sheila's intentions weren't pure? What if she posed a threat to the palace, or worse, to you me? And there were many more of Gunter’s questions that went past my ears.With a wry smile and a sharp wit, I countered his arguments, laying out my reasoning like pieces on a chessboard. I told Gunter that making Sheila stayed within our immediate presence would mean an easier way for us to uncover the truth behind her actions. I did that especially because Gunter was struggling to get the truth out of her too.Gunter sighed, I could see he wanted to rebut, but digging out information from Sheila was indeed

(ORION'S POV)"Sheila," I called softly, hoping to catch her attention. I noticed the redness creeping up her cheek, extending to her ears. She looked at me, and for a moment, I dared to hope that she might feel the same desire as I. "I want you," I confessed, the words hanging heavy in the air between us.Sheila swallowed hard, her heart rate betraying the silence that she was displaying. I could see the subtle shift of her feet, pressing together as if she was grappling with her own desires. In that moment, a familiar scent filled the air, a blend of ripe grapefruit and soft jasmine. It teased my senses, triggering a wave of longing from deep within me.I took a deep breath, trying to steady myself against the rush of emotions. The scent was intoxicating, stirring up a potent mixture of want and need within me. With careful movements, I stepped out of the bath, determined not to let desire cloud my judgment, yet unable to ignore the pull I felt towards Sheila.I gently pulled Sheila