Chapter 66: Burn the world for you“No... No... L-Liam...” Isabel frantically stuttered, her eyes wide with fear and disbelief.Victoria, who had been watching felt triumphant. Everything was falling into place perfectly. And so she concealed her satisfaction by swiftly changing her demeanor, adopting a look of concern and innocence as she knelt down to comfort her son, who was also trembling in fear.“What dead boy, my love?” she asked, her voice soft and soothing, masking her true intentions.Julian's eyes were wide with horror, still fixed on the scene before him. He struggled to find his voice, his small hands clutching at Victoria's dress. “The boy... the one they were carrying... he looked dead,” he whispered, his voice breaking.Isabel’s breath caught in her throat as she took in Julian’s words, her heart pounding in her chest. Her eyes widened with the sudden realization that the young boy Julian had seen was, indeed, her own son. Her entire world seemed to crumble around her,
Chapter 67: Flowers of DeceitIsabel's tears continued to flow, but she remained silent, her heart a tumult of emotions. Lucian's words were both a balm and a dagger, soothing her pain while reminding her of the precariousness of her situation.After ensuring Isabel was settled, Lucian left her in the care of a trusted maid and exited the room. His demeanor changed instantly from tender to resolute as he marched down the palace corridors. His mind was set on confronting Victoria, the source of so many of his troubles.He found her in the palace gardens, a picture of serene beauty amid the blooming flowers. Julian, their son, was at her side, mirroring her calm demeanor. The scene might have seemed peaceful to an outsider, but Lucian saw it for what it was—a carefully crafted facade."Where is the boy?" Lucian's voice cut through the air, sharp and demanding.Victoria turned, her expression one of practiced innocence. "What boy do you mean, my love?""Do not play games with me, Victori
Chapter 68: The Calm Before the Storm Victoria’s smile faltered at the truth in Leticia’s words. Rage boiled over within her, and without a second thought, she slapped Leticia across the face. The sound echoed through the room, but the princess remained calm and her expression unchanged as she absorbed the blow. Leticia slowly turned her head back to face Victoria, her eyes serene and unyielding. A small, almost imperceptible smile played on her lips as if she had expected this reaction. "You wretch!" Victoria hissed, her voice trembling with fury. Leticia remained seated, her calm demeanor very much opposite to Victoria’s fury. She gently touched her reddening cheek, then looked up at Victoria with pity and amusement. “Why are you mad?” Leticia asked softly, her voice carrying a hint of mockery. “You had me here chained on both ankles, and yet it seems to me that between the two of us, you're the one who looks like a prisoner. What are you afraid of, Victoria?” Victoria’s eyes
Chapter 1: Dear MotherThe kingdom of Montebello awoke under a sky streaked with the hues of dawn. The golden light spilled into the busy slums where Isabel lived. As she completed her daily household chores, the warm morning sun touched her pale skin and her icy blue eyes sparkled with every splash of water as she stomped on the fabrics soaking in the wooden basin.Despite her humble beginnings, Isabel embraced her life with gratitude, which was a fruition to the lessons her mother had imparted. Although Isabel was uneducated, she was wise enough to find joy in the simple things and never grumbled about their status in society’s hierarchy. Her appreciation for her mother's sacrifices was boundless that she often expressed it in songs of love and gratitude during times of scarcity.Her father was a subject shrouded in silence. A past her mother never spoke of, and Isabel never pressed. She understood enough to harbor a deep, personal hatred for the pain her existence had caused her mo
Chapter 2: A Daughter's HeartIsabel who was ever observant, notices the weariness etched in her mother's eyes."Did you manage any rest at work?" Isabel inquired, her voice laced with concern."Very little," Teressa admitted, "but I don’t mind. It is heartening to witness such joy and celebration."Isabel nodded and felt relieved that her mother found comfort to her hard work. "I finished the laundry and tidied up. Mrs. Hawthorne stopped by with fresh bread.""That was kind of her," Teressa said with her eyes brightening. "Mrs. Hawthorne always looks out for us.""Indeed," Isabel agreed. "She also gave me some advice on mending clothes. I believe I am improving."Teressa smiled, gently squeezing Isabel’s hand. "You are doing wonderfully, Isabel. I am immensely proud of you."Isabel blushed. "Thank you, Mother. I just want to ease your burdens.""You do more than enough," Teressa assured her. "I am grateful every day for you. How was your day, dear?""It was good. Busy, but I like to
Chapter 3: Mrs. Hawthorne the kind soulIsabel returned from another long day of searching for work, but nobody seemed willing to hire someone like her who is skilled only in household chores. Downhearted, she trudged home with the burdens of rejection slumped on her shoulders.As the late afternoon shadows began to lengthen, Isabel decided to visit the small clinic where her mother had been temporarily confined. She took a deep breath and smiled, hoping to bring some comfort and cheer to Teressa.Isabel entered her mother’s room quietly with the soft rustling of her skirts the only sound. Teressa stirred as her eyes opened slowly. She immediately shifted and smiled to the sight of her daughter.“Good evening, Mother,” Isabel whispered, leaning down to kiss Teressa’s forehead.Teressa spoke weakly. “Good evening, my dear. How did your day fare?”“I managed,” Isabel replied in her gentle voice. “How do you feel?”“A bit better,” Teressa said, her voice still frail. “But very tired.”Is
Chapter 4: Isabel's Journey to the PalaceIsabel's POVThe next morning, I woke early and dressed carefully. I chose my best attire and packed my few belongings into a small bundle. Today was the day I would travel to the palace, carrying the letter that could change mine and my mother’s lives.With my bundle in hand, I made my way to the small clinic where my mother was recovering. As I approached the room, I saw Mrs. Hawthorne already there, attending to mother with her usual kindness.Despite all the hardships we had faced, I couldn’t help but feel the overwhelming gratitude. Even in these dire circumstances, we were blessed to have people like Mrs. Hawthorne who cared about us and were willing to help.“Good morning,” I greeted softly, stepping inside.Mrs. Hawthorne looked up and smiled warmly. “Good morning, Isabel. You look ready for your journey.”“I am,” I replied, though my voice trembled slightly. I turned to my mother, who was sitting up in bed, looking stronger than befor
Chapter 5: Eliza, the head housekeeperIsabel's POVThen, as I finally arrived and stood in front of the palace gates, I was struck by the sight of a long line of maidens, each holding a letter identical to the one Mrs. Hawthorne had given me. My heart sank slightly as I realized that they, too, were here seeking work, each one probably with a story similar to mine—a family to support or dreams of a better life.The grandeur of the palace loomed before us, its tall gates and imposing walls were the very contrast to the humble homes we had left behind. I clutched my letter tightly, feeling a both nervous and determination. The other maidens in line looked just as apprehensive, their faces mirroring the same blend of hope and anxiety that I felt.I couldn't help but wonder about their stories. Were they also daughters of struggling families, sent here with the hope of securing a stable income? Did they also have loved ones depending on them, waiting anxiously for good news? The thought