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 cr