Chapter Forty One

As Rueben held me in his arms, comforting me with his warmth and love, I couldn't help but feel a sense of peace wash over me. It was as if all the turmoil and uncertainty of the past few weeks had faded away, replaced by a deep sense of understanding and acceptance.

After a few moments, Rueben pulled away slightly, his hands still resting on my shoulders. He looked into my eyes, his gaze filled with a mix of love and concern.

"Naomi, I understand why you decided to leave the palace," he said softly, his voice filled with sincerity. "But I have to ask, do you want to come back? Do you want to return to the life you left behind?"

I took a deep breath, my mind racing with conflicting emotions. Returning to the palace would mean facing the expectations and pressures that had suffocated me before. It would mean stepping back into a world of privilege and power, where I would be constantly scrutinized and judged.

"No, Rueben," I replied, my voice steady. "I don't want to return to the pala