Burn the Marriage, Keep the Crown novel Chapter 239

“Ahhhhh, who else is losing it? Serena is absolutely stunning when she goes full badass!”

“Seriously! I thought she was just going to be another pretty face when she showed up—like set decoration or something. Who knew she was this fierce?”

“Same! I totally thought the girl standing front and center was the real deal, but turns out Serena’s the true star.”

“Did no one notice? When Serena first appeared, she was all done up with heavy makeup, but later she switched to a more natural look—and honestly, she looked even better! How is that possible?”

“She really does look better with just a little makeup! Ugh, it’s such a waste she’s not acting professionally. She’d be a sensation.”

“Please, can some director cast her already? I want to see her in a TV show or a movie—preferably as the ‘most beautiful woman in the world.’ That role was made for her!”

…

As chatter about Serena exploded online, the show shot to the top of the ratings for its time slot.

The moment the director saw those numbers, he was so overjoyed he nearly cried. He immediately called Serena.

But for every winner, there’s a loser.

Cynthia Lynwood stared at her phone, her feed overflowing with glowing praise for Serena. She could barely stand it. Fighting the urge to hurl her phone across the room, she glanced over at Aaron, who was still watching TV.

The presidential suite’s television was enormous—big enough for every detail of Serena’s commanding presence and radiant confidence to fill the screen.

“Aaron…” Cynthia took a deep breath and tried to sound sweet, “It’s getting late. Don’t you think you should get some rest?”

Aaron didn’t even glance away from the screen.

Cynthia moved behind him and slipped her arms around his neck. “Aaron…”

She didn’t get to finish before Aaron shot her a cold look.

Her heart skipped a beat. Quickly, she let go.

Only then did Aaron turn back to the TV.

Cynthia stared at him in disbelief.

Afraid he might change his mind, she quickly said, “Okay!”

Without another word, she began searching for the perfect matching profile pics, her heart swelling with a syrupy happiness.

…

It was nearly eleven by the time Serena finished discussing the case with Giles and stepped outside.

She pulled her coat tighter around her. “It’s getting colder and colder.”

“Yeah,” William replied, glancing up at the sky, his eyes full of quiet anticipation. “Winter’s almost here.”

Serena gave him a puzzled look. “You like winter?”

He smiled faintly. “Not really.”