I Watched My Scheming Brother Crash and Burn
On the day I return to court in triumph, my fiancee, Isabel Hartwell, welcomes me at the city gates.
My career is flourishing, and I'm about to marry the woman I love. As far as I'm concerned, my life can't be more perfect.
A victory banquet is held in my honor. By the time I'm pleasantly buzzed, Isabel's mother, Katherine Mercer, raises her glass to me with a smile.
"Nicholas, my daughter has waited three long years for you. Now, you're finally back!"
The entire room bursts into laughter.
My ears burn as I search for Isabel through the crowd of guests raising their glasses. She lowers her head, trying to hide her smile.
Perhaps sensing my gaze, she looks up. Our eyes meet, and hers crinkled with delight.
My heart skips a beat. I quickly lower my head and take a drink to hide my embarrassment, only to nearly choke on it.
My fellow soldiers immediately begin teasing me. Even my younger half-brother, Stephen Aldridge, leans over with a smile.
"Congratulations, Nicholas. You'll soon be the Hartwells' son-in-law. When you make it to the top, don't forget to help me out."
I ruffle his hair, warmth filling my chest.
My career is thriving, the woman I love will soon be my wife, and I share a close bond with my family. What more can I possibly ask for?
Then, I look up and freeze.
A golden prophecy appears out of nowhere, hovering in midair.
"In two hours, Stephen will be found lying beside Isabel with his clothes in disarray. Everyone will catch them in a compromising position. Isabel will be forced to marry Stephen, and she'll eventually succumb to depression and die."
I sober instantly as a chill sweeps through me.
After all, Stephen is none other than my younger half-brother, who has just raised a toast to me.
今すぐ読む