CHAPTER 35

(EMBERLYN'S POV)

As I stood outside my mother's chamber, the events of the day replayed in my mind like a relentless loop. It had become clear that Orion was oblivious about that incident. He stood before me many times, his resolve unyielding as ever. His fierce loyalty to Sheila perplexed and frustrated me in equal measure.

Taking a deep breath, I rapped lightly on the door, hoping for some solace in my mother's presence. Vespera's warm voice greeted me from within, inviting me to enter. "Emberlyn? Come on in!" she exclaimed, her cheerful tone a stark contrast to the turmoil brewing within me.

As I pushed open the heavy door to my mother's private chamber, I was immediately greeted by the familiar sight of two maids fussing around her. The room was a sanctuary of peace and sophistication, a reflection of my mother's refined taste and esteemed position. Soft light filtered through the sheer curtains, casting a gentle glow over the lavish décor.

Sensing my melancholy, my mother, Vesper