Burn the Marriage, Keep the Crown

The following morning, Olivia noticed Serena leaving the house with a box in her hand. Her curiosity got the better of her, prompting her to ask, "Miss Sullivan, heading out?"noveldrama

"Yes," Serena replied, carefully placing a vase inside the box before turning to Olivia. "I won't be home for lunch today."

With that, she hopped into a taxi and left, choosing not to have the driver from Rosewood Gardens, who worked for Aaron, take her. She cherished what little personal freedom she had left.

Holding the vase securely, Serena gazed out at the passing scenery, her thoughts wandering far from the city streets. Her wedding to Aaron was scheduled for next week, yet there was no indication from Aaron's side that the event would be called off. Cynthia Lynwood had been surprisingly ineffective this time around.

Serena massaged her temples with one hand, pondering how to get Aaron to cancel the wedding.

"Miss, we've arrived," the taxi driver announced, pulling her back to reality.

Serena glanced at the towering building outside and nodded slightly. "Thank you." She stepped out of the car, carrying the box.

Before her was a neighborhood filled with villas, but these weren't just residences -they were part of a luxurious hotel. The hotel, with its Western architectural style, stood as an elegant retreat amid the bustling modern city, like a slice of history nestled within the present.

Serena had been here before and had spent a small fortune in just one night. The memory of that expense still pained her.

"Miss Sullivan," a voice called out. Finn was already waiting for her on the ground floor. He approached with a smile, "This way, please."

Serena nodded and followed Finn through the entrance.

Inside, the hotel felt like a world apart. The meticulously landscaped gardens, with their winding paths, reflected the beauty of nature. A serene pond shimmered under the light, with water lilies and koi fish creating ripples across its surface.

After a short walk, they reached the villa where William was staying. As the door opened, Serena saw William sitting in the living room. He wasn't in his usual wheelchair but rather in a comfortable armchair, donning a tailored blue suit that fit him perfectly.

His features were striking, like a finely carved sculpture-sharp eyebrows, bright eyes, and a distinguished nose. A few strands of hair fell gracefully across his forehead, adding a touch of elegance to his appearance.

Serena stood for a moment, taken aback, before stepping forward to meet him.

"You can check the item," she suggested.

"No rush," William smiled gently. "Have you eaten?"

"I have."

"Then join me for a walk. I've just finished my meal and could use some fresh air."

Serena glanced at William's leg, knowing he couldn't walk. Still, she held her tongue. After all, William was her benefactor, and he hadn't yet paid the two million she was owed.

Finn brought over a wheelchair, helping William settle into it, and then looked at Serena, indicating that she should push him.

With no other choice, Serena began to wheel William around the villa.

She had to admit, this villa was leagues above the one she'd previously stayed in.

It was likely the finest in the area. The garden was lush with exotic plants, as if

cost were no concern. The backyard pond teemed with a variety of ornamental fish, some worth tens of thousands.

"Would you like to feed the fish?" William suggested by the pond.

Serena shook her head. "No, thank you."

In the past, she had wanted to share such moments with Aaron, but after being turned down so many times, the desire had faded.