Burn the Marriage, Keep the Crown novel Chapter 16

After Aaron left, his assistant waited for a while before turning to William. "Mr. Grayson, why didn't you just tell Mr. Vance that the person you'll be marrying tomorrow is Miss Serena?"

William smiled, his features warm and gentle in the soft, golden light, appearing almost dreamlike. "Revealing the mystery too quickly would take away all the fun."

The assistant was left speechless.

...

Serena visited the Valerian Institute of Arts and Sciences, where her father’s old colleague and fellow alumnus now served as the head of the artifact restoration center. She had studied artifact restoration in college, but because Aaron was particularly sensitive to certain smells, she declined the center's offer after graduation. Instead, she chose to live at Rosewood Gardens, taking care of Aaron with the devotion of a handmaid, cooking and doing laundry.

Now that she was back in Northspire, Serena had been contemplating returning to her career. Today, she had finally gathered the courage to visit the restoration center.

"Serena, I've reviewed your final project, the refurbishment of the antique painted bronze lantern. Your craftsmanship was impeccable, indistinguishable from the original. It was that piece that convinced me to make you an offer. When you turned us down, I was disappointed. But now, here you are! Promise me you'll join us this time!" Director Thomas eagerly invited her, not giving Serena a chance to speak.

Serena's doubts vanished as she looked at Director Thomas, feeling grateful. "Alright, once I settle my personal matters, I'll come to work with you."

After marrying William, she planned to start her new job. From then on, she would live for herself.

"Wonderful, our doors are always open for you," Director Thomas beamed, thrilled that Serena had so readily agreed to join the restoration center.

"I'll head back now," Serena said, waving goodbye to Director Thomas.

Just as Serena was about to speak, a wave of gasps surged through the onlookers. She looked up to see Aaron stepping out of a sleek car, dressed in a sharp black suit. His striking features and confident stride had the women in the crowd swooning.

But what caught Serena's attention was the dazzling diamond ring he held. It was as large as a bird's egg, certainly not something you see every day.

"Serena," Aaron approached her, not bothering to kneel, but instead presenting the ring. "Does this make you feel better?"

Serena's eyes flitted between the roses and the ring. "So, you're trying to appease me?"

"Of course, Serena. Once we're back in Alderburg, I'll marry you, and throw you a grand wedding," Aaron replied with a tone of condescension.