The morning sun spilled through the tall windows of the latest bride's room, painting the silk curtains gold. The air smelled faintly of roses, sweet but cloying, a reminder of the wedding that had taken place the night before.Aria stirred from the bed, her eyes fluttering open. For a moment, she lay still, listening. The house was quiet, too quiet, except for the faint sounds of servants moving through the halls.She pushed the covers back and sat up, her fingers brushing against the smooth sheets. In her past life, she had woken this same way nervous, eager, desperate to please. She had imagined Damian walking through the door, perhaps with a kind word, perhaps with the faintest hint of affection.That Aria had been a fool.This time, she only stretched her arms calmly and stood, her movements unhurried.There was a soft knock at the door.“Mrs. Cross,” a maid’s voice called. “May we come in?”Mrs. Cross.The title rolled through Aria’s chest, strange and heavy. Last time, she had
Last Updated : 2025-10-16 Read more