“I know… I did wrong, and I couldn’t even complete the mission you gave me..”

“Shhh.” I silenced her again, sharper this time. She shut her mouth at once.

“Go and rest,” I commanded. “I don’t need a report now. You and Ivy.”

“Yes, Your Majesty,” she said with a bow. Ivy mirrored her respect before they both withdrew.

The room grew quiet. Ember’s voice broke the silence, soft with a strange sweetness. “Just moments ago, I thought you were angry with your sister… not knowing this is how it would end.” Her lips moved with a romantic allure, and my eyes caught every curve of her mouth.

“Come here,...