Chapter 23

Loretta's POV 

I woke up with a firm resolve today. This was the day I would take matters into my own hands. I had made up my mind long ago—I was going to end this pregnancy, no matter what it took. For weeks now, I had been planning, weighing my options, and finally, I had found a way.

Once the baby was gone, I promised myself I would return to my old life. I would be the favorite daughter again, the one who always got what she wanted. I knew my father would be angry at first, but he always forgave me in the end. And once I was back in my old position, I vowed to make Eleanor’s life a living hell. I would make her regret ever crossing my path. Whatever harm I had done her in the past would seem small compared to what I planned now.

I rose from my bed and had a quick breakfast. My maid, Grace, hovered nearby, her eyes full of concern. She asked gently if I was feeling well or if I had begun to experience morning sickness. I lied smoothly, assuring her that I was not pregnant yet. I could not risk anyone suspecting my secret plan.

I told Grace that I needed to be out for a while and that I would be back before evening. I insisted that I did not need an escort—just some time alone to think and act. I quickly dressed in a plain cloth with a hood, careful not to attract any attention. I did not want anyone to know where I was headed.

Once I was ready, I stepped out of the palace and got into my car. I drove away with a clear purpose. My destination was a hidden place I had learned about—a place known for its special herbs. These herbs were said to have the power to end a pregnancy safely, and I was determined to use them.

As I drove through quiet roads and past familiar landscapes, my mind raced with thoughts of my future. I imagined the life I would have once this burden was lifted. I would regain my power and position, and nothing would stand in my way. The plan was set, and I felt a mix of relief and cold determination. Today, everything would change.

Alicia's POV 

I let out a wicked chuckle as I watched Loretta step out of the palace and into her expensive car—a sleek, black vehicle that shone brightly in the sunlight. It filled me with satisfaction to see her fall right into my trap. Now, I could sit back and relax as I watched the marriage between Sebastian and Loretta begin to crumble. Every step she took away from the palace was another step closer to her undoing.

I waited until the palace grounds were quiet and Loretta had been gone for a good while before setting my plans into motion. I took a moment to fix my hair and dress casually, ensuring I looked unassuming and ready for what I had planned. My mind was clear, and I knew exactly what I had to do next.

I headed out to the garden, where I knew Sebastian liked to spend his time. There, sitting on a weathered wooden bench beneath a large oak tree, he was absorbed in a book. He looked so calm and lost in his reading that he did not notice me approaching. It had been weeks since Sebastian had paid me any real attention, and I was determined that this time, the roles would be reversed.

I took a deep breath and stepped forward, letting my presence be known. I wanted him to feel the full force of my words, to know that I was in control. I smiled sweetly and said, "The longer you wait, the more you're at risk of losing something that's yours." My voice dripped with honeyed sweetness, but behind the words was a threat wrapped in desire.

Sebastian looked up sharply, his eyes narrowing as he regarded me. "What is it, Alicia?" he growled, his tone laced with irritation and a hint of warning. "If this is something important to me, you'd better start speaking now. Because if I lose anything on your account today, today will be the last day you ever set foot on this palace ground."

His threat hung in the air, heavy and dangerous. I could see the fire in his eyes, but I was not willing to be swayed by his anger. Instead, I maintained my calm smile and leaned in a little closer, lowering my voice to a conspiratorial whisper.

"I have a secret to share with you," I said slowly, watching his expression shift from anger to curiosity. "But I'll only tell you if you come with me—if you come to my bed, stripped of everything, and let us be together, naked and unguarded." My words were deliberate and daring, a challenge designed to test his resolve and his desire.

I paused, letting the weight of my demand sink in. "The sooner you decide, the better it will be for you," I added softly, my eyes never leaving his. I could feel his gaze burn into me, and in that moment, I knew I had him exactly where I wanted him. His eyes flickered with a mix of desire and uncertainty—a dangerous combination that left him vulnerable.

Then, as quickly as I had spoken, I turned and walked away, leaving him on the bench to ponder my words. I moved with a confident grace, my heels clicking on the stone path as I left him behind. I knew that he would not be able to resist the lure of the forbidden secret I had offered him. Deep down, I was certain he would follow, drawn by the promise of passion and the thrill of our dangerous game.

I could almost feel his eyes on my back as I walked away, and I knew that I had turned the tide. It was time for Sebastian to make his choice. Would he dare to cross the line, to risk everything for a moment of truth? I waited with bated breath, confident that he would soon come after me. After all, when desire is mixed with threat, even the proud and stubborn cannot help but be tempted.

I strolled through the palace gardens with a sense of purpose, each step echoing my determination. I imagined the look on his face when he finally made up his mind, and I smiled at the thought. In that moment, I knew that everything was falling into place. The game had b

egun, and soon, he would be mine alone.