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[For Oliver]

CASSIDY

A floral scent of roses and buttercups filled the air around the garden. Heavy raindrops beat down on the glass of the greenhouse while thunder cracked and blinding flashes of lightning lit up the darkened skies. Believe it or not, it was past ten in the morning, and outside was still dark. Come to think of it, I couldn’t remember seeing the sun shining when I arrived. The castle seemed clouded by darkness whether day or night. I wonder why?

After breakfast, I opted for a walk in the garden, away from the prince and as far away as possible from his father. They both repulsed me. Especially that so-called King Darien. The thought of being in his presence for another second made me want to vomit. Plus, having to marry his son, only so I could help to protect what remained of my family was worth the sacrifice of Zaiden’s hands on my body.

My nostrils flared with rage and my hands balled into fists at my side, compelling me to punch something. Preferably that pret