Burn the Marriage, Keep the Crown novel Chapter 156

Serena dialed Rock's number and waited, her fingers tapping impatiently against the phone. It took over a minute before Rock finally picked up.

"Are you in class?" Serena asked, trying to keep her tone light.

"No," Rock replied, his voice sounding strangely off.

"What's wrong? Are you feeling sick?" Serena inquired, concern creeping into her voice.

"No..." Rock's voice tightened with anxiety. "Serena, you're calling to ask if I betrayed you, aren't you?"

Serena was taken aback but then chuckled softly. "Why would I ask you that?"

Rock was puzzled. "The incident in Moonhaven Town—only Joy’s family and I knew about it. Joy’s family would never betray you, so it had to be me..."

"So it was you?" Serena teased, feigning seriousness.

Rock quickly protested, "Serena, it wasn't me! I swear, it really wasn't! If it were me, I'd be hit by a bus the moment I stepped out!"

Serena interrupted him, "Relax, I know it wasn't you."

Rock was stunned, disbelief evident in his silence. "You never suspected me?"

"You promised me you'd keep it a secret," Serena said with a gentle smile. "I know you're someone who keeps their word."

Relief washed over Rock, and he finally allowed himself to breathe. A few days ago, Samuel had confronted him. That was when Rock learned Serena hadn’t left Alderburg but had returned. Samuel suspected there was a mole, which had left Rock feeling uneasy ever since.

Despite his usual aloof demeanor, which made him indifferent to others’ opinions, he couldn't shake the feeling of dread about how Serena might perceive him. But now, hearing that Serena never doubted him, warmth spread through his chest, and he managed a small smile. Soon, though, his brow furrowed again.