She clasped her hands tightly on her lap, her knuckles turning white and trembling slightly. He’s… he’s back in the country?
Mila had always considered herself to be fair and blameless to most people in her life. But if she had truly wronged anyone, there was only one person. That person had left for abroad seven years ago, and she had heard nothing since. Or rather, Mila had deliberately avoided any news about him. He was the one person she felt she couldn’t face, even now.
And yet, here he was, back in the country at such a critical moment.
Why now, when her marriage was falling apart? Was he here to gloat over her misfortune? To mock her for insisting on marrying Lysander, only to end up like this?
But did Mila regret it? No, she didn’t.
Love was love. Even though the outcome wasn’t what she had hoped for, she had loved and hated, and the past was the past. Regret was useless, and she saw it as just a storm she had weathered. It was enough.
She could let go and start a new chapter in her life.
She was capable of that.
…
How… how has he been all these years? Mila finally asked.
Bam!
Before Roland could answer, the door to the lounge was thrown open with a bang. Lysander stood there, his expression dark and unreadable, having no doubt overheard their conversation.
He strode into the room, grabbing Mila, who was too stunned to react. His eyes were cold as he addressed Roland, Roland, I’ve respected you because of our families’ ties. But if you meddle in my personal affairs, don’t blame me for being ruthless. The Lockwood family can’t afford any more enemies, especially not with the Montgomerys.
With that, he dragged Mila out of the room.
Roland remained seated on the sofa, his expression calm and composed despite the threat. His smile was gentle, yet there was a hint of turmoil in his eyes.
…
Lysander, have you lost your mind?
Mila was furious, unable to move and aching from the pressure. She freed one hand and beat against him, trying to make him let her go.
Her blows only seemed to ignite him further, and he pressed down even harder.
Lysander couldn’t shake the words he’d overheard outside the door. Memories from seven years ago, nearly forgotten, rushed back, fuelling his anger and a flicker of fear he couldn’t quite hide.
Mila, remember, you chose to be Mrs. Montgomery. This is what you wanted!
Mila’s bones ached under his weight, and she was struggling to breathe, her head spinning. His words hit her like a punch, making her chest tighten with old pain and fresh anger.
I don’t want to be Mrs. Montgomery anymore! Get off me…
But before she could finish, her mouth was silenced, the taste of warmth and copper filling her senses.