Chapter 8

"Dad… Dad, why are you here?" Chantelle stared at Andrew, who'd appeared out of thin air, with disbelief. The dagger in her hand slid and fell to the floor with a clang.

Initially calm, I put on a tearful look. "Andrew, why are you only showing up now? Our son and I are so close to never seeing you again!"

Andrew immediately softened when he heard my coquettish voice. He untied me and hugged me tight like he had regained a treasure he had lost. "Sorry. I was late. Don't be afraid. I'll forever protect you."

While sobbing softly on his chest, I shot Chantelle a smug look, which immediately set her off.

She tried to pry me out of Andrew's arms. "Dad, it was all an act! She's just a peasant!"

I trembled even more violently. "Andrew, she's trying to kill our son."

This time, Andrew slapped Chantelle on the face. She touched her swollen cheek in disbelief. "Dad, did you just hit me for that lowly peasant? You've never laid a finger on me in my life!"

Chantelle wouldn't have it, but