chapter

Mara's Pov

Last night's passion with my husband, Rhys still lingered on my skin, but the memory of Talia's actions lingered heavier. Her attempts to reclaim Rhys were exhausting.

I needed a little bit of distance.

Yara's warm smile greeted me as we strolled through the gardens. "Another night out, away from the castle's drama?" She asked.

"I need it," I confessed, linking my arm through hers. "Talia's games are suffocating me."

Yara's eyes rolled. "Well, you need to forget about her and enjoy the moment."

We watched the stars together, our laughter echoing through the night air. For a few hours, I forgot Talia's manipulations.

But the tension lingered beneath the surface.

"Yara, do you think Rhys still has feelings for Talia?" I asked, my voice barely above a whisper.

Yara's expression turned serious. "Mara, Rhys chose you. He loves you."

I nodded, but doubts crept in.

As the night wore on, we stumbled upon a small hall. Inside, the fire crackled, and the music was raw.

"Let's go in,"