chapter 42

Sierra pov.

As William asked me to leave, I couldn't help but feel a whirlwind of emotions stirring inside of me. I stood up slowly, my eyes unable to meet his as I turned around and began walking back to where I had just come from. Tears streamed down my face as I tried to comprehend why William had never believed me.

My chest ached as I clutched it tightly with my hands, trying to ease the pain that threatened to overcome me. I had hoped he would call out to me, tell me to stop, but he remained silent, watching as I walked away.

Leaving the castle, I looked around at the maids who had once been my allies. Now, they stared at me with judgmental eyes, their disdain palpable. I felt like an outcast, unworthy of their respect.

The cold air outside only served to amplify the chill that had settled in my bones, and I huddled my arms around my body, searching for warmth that I knew wouldn't come. I wondered if I should go home, but the thought of facing the rumors and gossip that would sur