Eleanora’s pulse pounded as Alaric hurried to her bedside, his gloved hand reaching for hers. For a heartbeat, the urge to pull away overwhelmed her—but she caught herself, forcing stillness. His hand felt warm, steady, deceptively gentle.
HENRY VOLVOC/FL EX FIANCÈ
I was so frightened ( he murmured, voice rough with worry) When they pulled you from the water…
She lowered her lashes, hiding the storm in her gaze
ELEANORA CHANDLER/FL
I’m well, Your Highness
(she whispered, her voice soft, almost fragile—just as they expected of the sheltered princess)
Her brother, the crown prince, let out a slow breath of relief. His wife dabbed Eleanora’s damp forehead, murmuring reassurances and walked out with others. The lady-in-waiting watched silently, and left without any words
Now only Prince and Eleanora were there
Inside, Eleanora’s thoughts raced. Who had pushed her? If even the original Eleanora didn’t know, the truth must have been buried deep. Worse still, it had happened before the story’s tragedies truly began.
She forced herself to meet Alaric’s gaze, searching for even a flicker of guilt. But all she saw was warmth—perfectly performed. It made her blood run cold.
From now on, she decided, she would keep her enemies close, her mask flawless, and her secrets closer.
？？？
IF THEY WISHED TO PLAY WITH HER LIFE—SHE’D LEARN TO PLAY BACK.
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