Burn the Marriage, Keep the Crown novel Chapter 49

"You're back." Aaron murmured, his long fingers tapping rhythmically on his tablet.

Dressed in a casual white shirt paired with tailored trousers, he exuded a laid-back yet untamed charisma. However, Serena could still sense a hint of danger lurking beneath his calm demeanor.

After seven years by Aaron's side, she had grown adept at reading his moods. In the past, if she noticed he was upset, she would go to great lengths to cheer him up. But now, her feelings had changed. She no longer loved him, so why should his mood affect her?

Ignoring Aaron, Serena began her ascent up the stairs.

Aaron lifted his head just as she turned, catching sight of her resolute silhouette. His expression hardened. "Serena!"

Serena acted as if she hadn't heard him, continuing her steady climb to the second floor.

In a few swift strides, Aaron was behind her, grasping her wrist firmly. "I'm talking to you. Didn't you hear me?"

Serena stared coldly at her captured wrist. "If you want me to stay quietly in Rosewood Gardens, treat me like I'm invisible. Otherwise, I won't hesitate to jump from the second floor."

Aaron's gaze fixed on the scar still healing on Serena's forehead, his eyes narrowing.

He tightened his grip. "You know I don't respond well to threats."

Serena slowly shifted her gaze, her lips curling into a brilliant smile, as if she were a rose blooming amidst thorns. Of course, she knew.

"That's why I just want to end it all."

Seeing the genuine determination in her eyes, Aaron's brow furrowed deeply. "Serena, what do I have to do for you to speak to me properly? If you want the title of Mrs. Vance, I can give it to you now!"

Serena pulled away from Aaron. "You still think I'm upset because I want to be Mrs. Vance? What is there left for us to discuss?"

Aaron was speechless.

He had indeed been following Serena, fearful she might disappear again.

Serena's lips twisted into a sardonic smile. "Listen carefully, Aaron. This has nothing to do with anyone else. Even if you were the last man on earth, I wouldn't love you.

I, Serena, am completely over you!

Do you understand that now?"

Aaron's pupils constricted sharply. By the time he processed her words, the only sound was a door slamming shut on the second floor.

He looked up at the closed door, his icy eyes swirling with turbulent emotions, like a storm-tossed sea.