Chapter 21: Embroider me to your heartAfter the tense meeting in the throne room, King Lucian retired to his royal study, hoping to find peace alone. As he delved into the documents spread out before him, there came a hesitant knock on the door."Enter," Lucian called out. The door creaked open, revealing the imposing figure of Head Minister Marlowe. His expression was unreadable, but there was a glint in his eyes that sent a shiver down Lucian's spine."Your Majesty," Marlowe began, his tone deceptively calm. "We need to talk."Lucian's eyes became that of someone on alert. "What is it, head minister Marlowe?" Lucian asked, trying to keep his voice steady."It seems you underestimate the consequences of your defiance, Your Majesty," Marlowe's voice dripped with menace as each word carried the shadow of a looming storm. "If you persist in your obstinance, the kingdom will suffer. And so will you."Lucian's heart thundered in his chest and a cold dread settling in the pit of his sto

Chapter 23: Matrimonial PreparationsFor the next few days, preparations for Lucian and Victoria's royal wedding became the kingdom's priority. The palace buzzed with activity as maids, servants, and courtiers worked tirelessly to ensure every detail was perfect for the grand event. The excitement was evident, and the air was filled with anticipation.But for Isabel, there was no joy in these preparations. The happiness that seemed to envelop everyone else only deepened the cold emptiness inside her. While everyone wished for the king and future queen's good health, Isabel's body, on the other hand, began to feel weak and fragile. Her once-rosy cheeks were now pale as if the very life was draining out of her. Yet, no one noticed her deteriorating condition. Everyone was too consumed with their tasks, too absorbed in the upcoming celebration.Lucian, meanwhile, was consumed by his own struggle. It had been weeks since the last time he saw Isabel, ever since he had turned his back on h

Chapter 25: His little sisterIsabel watched as Lucian leaned in to kiss Victoria in front of the congregation. Her heart ached with every second that passed, but she forced a smile and clapped along with the crowd in congratulations. It had taken days—no, hours—of thinking, but she had finally come to a decision. She would be happy for Lucian. He deserved joy, and she didn't want to be a burden to him by showing too much of her emotions.As the newlywed king and queen turned to face everyone, Lucian's eyes met Isabel's. She smiled at him, a smile she hoped looked peaceful. Inside, she felt anything but. There was a storm raging within her, but she had made her choice. She would support him, no matter what. Lucian looked at her with an expression she couldn't quite place. It looked like a flicker of something deep and painful in his eyes. But in Lucian's head, he wished he was seeing her cry, rather than this mask of serenity she wore.As she noticed his intense gaze, she immediately

Chapter 27: To Hurt HerThe day after the royal wedding, Lucian did everything he could to see Isabel and check on her. He wandered through the palace with urgency with his mind consumed of thoughts of her. But just as he found Isabel, Victoria appeared, seemingly out of nowhere, doing her best to keep the king away from Isabel. It was as if she knew right from the start what was going on between the two."My love, where are you going?" Victoria asked in a slightly loud voice that drew the attention of almost all the palace maids, including Isabel, who was busy cleaning up the grounds.Isabel turned to look, and Lucian's heart sank. He immediately tried to push Victoria away, but it was already too late. Isabel had already seen them so close together. But instead of seeing a pained expression on her face, Isabel only curtsied in respect, showing no emotion, not even a smile. She didn't even look him in the eye.Lucian was taken aback by what he saw. After Isabel curtsied and stood bac

Chapter 29: It is my dutyIsabel slightly bowed to the kitchen staff, including the royal chef, for their attention and cooperation during her little tutorial. "Thank you all for your hard work and patience," Isabel said warmly with a gentle smile gracing her lips. The staff responded with nods and smiles of their own, clearly pleased with the efforts.As she was about to grab the tray to bring it to the king and queen, Isabel suddenly felt a wave of dizziness wash over her. Her vision blurred, and she swayed on her feet. The room seemed to spin, and she reached out to steady herself, but her strength faltered.Anne, who had been watching Isabel closely, noticed the sudden change in her demeanor. "Isabel!" she called out, rushing forward just in time to catch her before she could fall back.The royal chef, Henri, hurried over with concern etched on his face. "Isabel, are you alright?" he asked, his voice filled with worry.Isabel blinked rapidly, trying to shake off the dizziness. "I