The palace feels quieter after Kian’s departure, like someone pulled a restless thread out of the tapestry. For days, there’s no echo of his laughter down the corridors, no murmurs of his sharp tongue around the council chambers. Everyone seems relieved. Father calls it peace restored.I call it silence before the next storm.Gregory buries himself in royal duties, and whenever I see him, it’s often with Vivian at his side, her hand resting just a little too easily on his arm, her voice floating with practiced charm. I’ve grown used to the sight, or at least I tell myself I have.Ron, on the other hand, has become more persistent than ever. He shows up at the palace unannounced, smiling like he owns the place, speaking to me like we already share a life. Today, he brings another invitation.“It’s my brother’s graduation,” he says, leaning against the terrace railing, eyes soft but probing. “It’ll mean a lot if you come. Everyone’s expecting you.”I hesitate, folding my hands together
Last Updated : 2025-10-06 Read more