~ Isabella’s POV

I leaned into the seat, deciding to let the mystery unfold. The car glided smoothly as we left the palace grounds, and soon we were driving through lush greenery and winding roads. The view outside was calming, with nothing but trees, hills, and the occasional farmhouse. It felt like we were escaping the world for a while.

After a while, we pulled off the main road and onto a dirt path that led us deeper into the woods. I looked around, curious about where he was taking me.

“We’re almost there,” Lucian said, noticing my puzzled expression.

Eventually, the trees parted, and we arrived at a secluded...