Then he locked me in the basement.
I begged him to save our baby, even said he could take my life instead.
It was his kid too. But he just stood there, watched us both die like that made things right.
This time? I did what he wanted. Brought Elyna to patch him up.
And soon, I’d be out of this place for good.
***
Next morning, Elyna showed up at the Gramont mansion’s dining hall.
Cedric took a bite of brioche bread and potage soup, then dropped it casual: “Elyna’s my girlfriend now. I’m marrying her. Be nice.”
Then he pointed his fork straight at me. “Especially you. Don’t cause problems for my fiancée.”
I just nodded. Elyna flashed a smug little smile.
I pretended not to notice, pushed my plate aside, and stood to leave. That’s when I heard Elyna start to sob.
“Cedric,” she sniffled, “does Reine not want me here? I know she’s important to you. If she hates me, maybe I should just go…”
Tears, soft voice, full pity mode.
Cedric’s jaw tightened. “Reine, sit down and finish your breakfast.”
“I’m done.”
His tone snapped. “Reine Rouvroy, I told you to sit down! Don’t you understand plain language? Have you forgotten basic manners? I raised you—is this what I taught you?”
I didn’t want anything to do with either of them. But they just couldn’t take a hint.
I turned and gave them both a polite, fake smile.
“Uncle Cedric. Miss Elyna. I’ve eaten. Enjoy your breakfast. I’m out.”
Half an hour later—there’s a knock at my door.
I opened it and found Cedric standing there, eyes stormy.
