THE GUESTROOM

CHAPTER 34

The reality of our situation weighed heavily upon me, and the hope that had flickered within my heart extinguished.

But deep down, a small ember of hope refused to die. Perhaps, just perhaps, love could find its way into Alexander's heart. Maybe, with time and patience, our fragmented promise could be mended, and the icy walls around him would thaw. The car rolled to a stop in front of Alexander's grand mansion, a symbol of his wealth and power. As I stepped out, my heart heavy with the weight of his words, he marched forward without sparing me a glance. I followed, my steps faltering, as if I were an unwelcome intruder in my own life. Once inside, a woman approached me with a warm smile. "Hello, I'm Maria, Mr. Alexander's maid. Welcome to your new home Miss Emma." Her kindness provided a fleeting moment of solace amidst the storm brewing within me. "Thank you, Maria," I managed to utter, my voice betraying the sadness that clung to me like a